Name: Easy Thai Shrimp Curry with Green Curry Paste in 20 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Cooking Oil (Substitute with coconut oil for a tropical twist.); 3 tablespoons Thai Green Curry Paste (Can substitute with red curry paste.); 1 pound Large Shrimp (Can substitute with chicken or tofu.); 1 stalk Lemongrass (Minced or substitute with lemongrass paste.); 2-3 Kaffir Lime Leaves (Can omit if unavailable.); 14 ounces Coconut Milk (Full-fat is best.); 1 cup Green Beans (Substitute with other vegetables if desired.); 2-3 tablespoons Palm Sugar (Brown sugar can be used as a substitute.); 2-3 tablespoons Fish Sauce (Soy sauce can replace for a vegetarian option.); to taste Green Chilies (Omit for a milder dish.); to taste Cilantro (Fresh herb for garnish, swap with Thai basil if necessary.); 1 Lime Wedges (For serving.)

As I stood over the stovetop, the aroma of sizzling shrimp and fragrant green curry paste enveloped my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a bustling Thai street market. It’s amazing how a dish can evoke such warmth and nostalgia, and that’s exactly what my Easy Thai Shrimp Curry with Green Curry Paste does. In just under 20 minutes, you can create a vibrant, gluten-free meal that combines the rich creaminess of coconut milk with the zesty notes of lime and cilantro. This delightful curry is not only quick to whip up on busy weeknights, but it also impresses with its authentic flavors, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Curious to savor a taste of Thailand in your own home? Let’s dive in!

Why is This Curry So Special?

Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes on the clock, you can have a stunning dish that rivals any restaurant. It’s perfect for busy weeknights!

Authentic Thai Flavors: This recipe is infused with aromatic green curry paste and creamy coconut milk, giving you a genuine taste of Thailand.

Customizable Options: Feel free to mix and match ingredients — whether you want to swap shrimp for tofu or add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, it’s all in your hands!

Healthy and Gluten-Free: Enjoy a meal that’s not only delicious but also supportive of your dietary needs. Each serving packs a nutritious punch while delivering fantastic flavor.

Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and friends alike with a dish that’s both vibrant and satisfying—it’s sure to become a regular feature at your dinner table. Don’t forget to try pairing it with some steamed jasmine rice for the ultimate experience! If you’re looking for more quick meal ideas, check out my Chicken Pumpkin Curry or Pepper Steak with Bell Peppers and Onion.

Easy Thai Shrimp Curry Ingredients

• Get ready to whip up a deliciously authentic Thai experience!

For the Curry

Cooking Oil – Adds fat for sautéing and flavor; substitute with coconut oil for a tropical twist.
Thai Green Curry Paste – Provides authentic Thai flavor; can substitute with red curry paste for a different taste profile.
Shrimp – The main protein; use large shrimp for better texture; can substitute with chicken or tofu for variation.
Lemongrass Stalk – Adds citrusy flavor; can replace with lemongrass paste for convenience.
Kaffir Lime Leaves – Imparts a unique citrus note; can omit if unavailable, but flavor will be less complex.
Coconut Milk – Creates creaminess in the curry; full-fat coconut milk is best while lighter versions may be used for fewer calories.
Green Beans – Adds crunch and nutrition; substitute with other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini if desired.
Palm Sugar – Balances flavors with sweetness; brown sugar can be used as a substitute.
Fish Sauce – For umami depth; soy sauce can replace fish sauce for a vegetarian option.
Green Chilies – Provides heat; adjust based on spice preference; omit for a milder dish.
Cilantro – Offers fresh herb flavor as garnish; swap with Thai basil for a different herbal note.
Lime Wedges – For serving; enhances freshness with each bite.

Dive into this delightful Easy Thai Shrimp Curry with Green Curry Paste, and elevate your weeknight dinner!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Thai Shrimp Curry with Green Curry Paste

Step 1: Heat the Oil and Sauté Curry Paste
In a medium pot, heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add 3 tablespoons of Thai green curry paste. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture is fragrant and slightly bubbling, infusing the oil with vibrant aromas that signal the start of your Easy Thai Shrimp Curry.

Step 2: Add Lemongrass, Shrimp, and Lime Leaves
Next, stir in 1 minced lemongrass stalk, 1 pound of large shrimp, and 2-3 kaffir lime leaves. Cook for another 2 minutes, tossing gently to ensure the shrimp are well-coated and start to turn pink. This step builds the core flavors and adds a lovely brightness to your curry.

Step 3: Incorporate Coconut Milk and Green Beans
Pour in 14 ounces of coconut milk and toss in 1 cup of green beans. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, observing the rich colors melding together. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium and let it bubble for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the green beans to retain their vibrant color and crispness.

Step 4: Simmer and Season
Reduce the heat to a low simmer and taste your curry. Gently stir in 2-3 tablespoons of fish sauce, using a spoon to mix thoroughly. Simmer for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This is where your Easy Thai Shrimp Curry takes on a delightful depth, balancing the savory notes.

Step 5: Finish with Heat and Garnish
Finally, add chopped green chilies to your preferred spice level and a handful of chopped cilantro. Squeeze in the juice of 1 lime, enhancing the fresh flavors. Stir well to combine, letting the residual heat warm the chilies and herbs for about 1 minute. Your Easy Thai Shrimp Curry is now aromatic and ready to serve!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle your hearty Easy Thai Shrimp Curry over bowls of fluffy jasmine rice or noodles. Garnish with additional cilantro and lime wedges for an added touch. This colorful presentation, combined with bold flavors, is sure to impress anyone at your dining table!

Easy Thai Shrimp Curry Variations

Feel free to explore and adapt this delicious dish, making it your own with these exciting twists!

Dairy-Free: Replace coconut milk with almond or cashew cream for a lighter take.
Vegetarian: Substitute shrimp with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option while still enjoying the wonderful flavors.
Extra Heat: Add more green chilies or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick that true heat lovers will enjoy.
Herbal Boost: Instead of cilantro, try fresh Thai basil for a different aromatic flair that complements the curry beautifully.
Texture Fun: Incorporate crunchy vegetables such as snap peas or water chestnuts for added crispness that contrasts with the creamy sauce.
Flavor Twist: Use red curry paste instead of green for a unique depth and color variation in your curry, still retaining that Thai essence.
Noodle Delight: Serve over rice noodles instead of jasmine rice to enjoy a delightful twist on traditional serving methods.
Coconut Rice Side: Pair with coconut rice for a luxurious touch that enhances the flavors, reminiscent of tropical escapes. For more rice inspirations, check out my Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce to complement your meal perfectly!

What to Serve with Easy Thai Shrimp Curry with Green Curry Paste

Transform your delightful Easy Thai Shrimp Curry into a complete feast with these perfect pairings!

Jasmine Rice: The fragrant rice absorbs the rich curry sauce beautifully, providing a comforting base that balances the dish’s spices.
Coconut Rice: Enhance the tropical palette by making rice with coconut milk, adding a layer of creaminess that harmonizes with the curry.
Naan Bread: This soft and fluffy bread offers a wonderful way to scoop up the curry, making each bite satisfying and fun.
Thai Salad: A fresh salad with lime dressing adds crunchy textures and bright flavors, perfectly complementing the warm, rich curry.
Spring Rolls: Serve crispy vegetable or shrimp spring rolls on the side for extra crunch; their lightness contrasts with the creamy curry.
Mango Sticky Rice: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Thai dessert; sweetness from the mango pairs exquisitely with the savory curry.
Lemongrass Iced Tea: A refreshing drink with the citrusy hint of lemongrass cools down any spice and enhances the overall meal experience.
Pineapple Stir-Fry: Sweet and tangy, a pineapple stir-fry can serve as a vibrant contrast to the rich flavors of your shrimp curry.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies cooked on the grill add a smoky flavor that complements the curry, providing satisfying textures and colors.

Expert Tips for Easy Thai Shrimp Curry

Proper Shrimp Care: Ensure your shrimp are fresh and cleaned thoroughly; avoid frozen shrimp if possible to enhance texture and flavor in your Easy Thai Shrimp Curry.

Balance Flavors: Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Adding fish sauce gradually helps achieve your preferred umami depth without overpowering the dish.

Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the shrimp as they cook; they should turn pink and opaque. Overcooking will make them rubbery rather than tender in your curry.

Herb Substitution: If you can’t find kaffir lime leaves, don’t worry! Lemon zest provides a brighter alternative while still lifting the flavors in your Thai shrimp curry.

Resting Time: Allow the curry to rest for a few minutes before serving. This lets the flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.

Storage Tips for Easy Thai Shrimp Curry

Fridge: Store any leftover Easy Thai Shrimp Curry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the curry in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Consider portioning it into individual servings for easy reheating later.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen curry overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of coconut milk if it seems thick.

Flavor Maintenance: Remember that the vibrant herbs like cilantro are best added fresh right before serving. Avoid freezing with garnishes to keep the flavors bright and fresh.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Thai Shrimp Curry with Green Curry Paste are perfect for those busy weeknights when time is limited! You can prep your curry components, such as chopping the vegetables and mixing the curry paste, up to 24 hours in advance. Keep everything in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can also clean and devein the shrimp ahead; however, it’s best to add them no more than 1-2 hours before cooking to prevent them from becoming rubbery. When you’re ready to whip up your curry, simply sauté the prepped ingredients, add your shrimp, and follow the cooking instructions. You’ll enjoy the same delicious flavors with considerably less hassle!

Easy Thai Shrimp Curry with Green Curry Paste Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor, opt for fresh, large shrimp—those with a firm texture and a slightly sweet smell are ideal. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are completely thawed and rinsed before cooking to ensure a tender bite.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
You can store your Easy Thai Shrimp Curry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Allow the curry to cool completely before sealing it up; this helps keep moisture out and preserves flavor. When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop for the best results.

Can I freeze the curry? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your Easy Thai Shrimp Curry! Follow these simple steps:

Allow the curry to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
Label each container with the date and contents to keep track.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently. A splash of coconut milk will help restore its creamy consistency while reheating!

What if I don’t have kaffir lime leaves?
No worries at all! If you can’t find kaffir lime leaves, you can omit them, but remember, the flavor won’t be as complex. As a substitute, you can use the zest of a regular lime mixed with a splash of lime juice for a similar citrusy kick. This alternative will provide a nice freshness to your Easy Thai Shrimp Curry!

Are there any allergies or dietary considerations?
Absolutely! For those with shellfish allergies, this dish can easily be customized. Substitute the shrimp with tofu, chicken, or even a medley of your favorite veggies for a delightful and satisfying meal. Additionally, check that your green curry paste and fish sauce are gluten-free to accommodate any dietary needs. Always read labels to ensure safety for those with allergies.

Why did my shrimp turn rubbery?
Very! This can happen if the shrimp are overcooked. Keep an eye on them as they cook; they only need about 2-4 minutes in the pot until they turn pink and opaque. If they look tightly curled and have a tough texture, they’ve likely been on the heat too long. Make it a priority to cook them just until done for that perfect tenderness!