Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk, the succulent sweetness of perfectly cooked shrimp, and the comforting warmth of fluffy rice. This Colombian-inspired dish is not just a recipe; it's a passport to a flavor-packed adventure that will make your kitchen feel like a beachside tropical retreat. Whether you're a seafood lover, a coconut enthusiast, or simply someone who craves an extraordinary meal, this Rice with Coconut and Shrimp recipe promises to be your new culinary obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Colombian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain completely and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
- Pour the rice into the skillet and stir to coat the grains with oil, allowing them to lightly toast for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the coconut milk and 1 cup of water to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the rice simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
- While the rice is cooking, season the shrimp with salt and pepper. In a separate pan, quickly sauté the shrimp over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and are just cooked through.
- Once the rice is fully cooked, gently fold the sautéed shrimp into the coconut rice, ensuring even distribution.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro if desired.
Tips
- Rice Rinsing is Crucial: Always rinse your rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, ensuring fluffy and separate grains.
- Toast the Rice: Lightly toasting rice in oil before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor and prevents clumping.
- Shrimp Cooking Precision: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink to avoid rubbery texture. Overcooking will make them tough.
- Coconut Milk Selection: Use full-fat coconut milk for richer, creamier results.
- Low and Slow Rice Cooking: Maintain a low heat and keep the lid on while simmering rice to achieve perfect tenderness.
- Resting Time Matters: Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to let flavors meld and rice absorb remaining moisture.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions can add a bright, fresh dimension to the final dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 180mg
