Jamaican Curry Shrimp: A Flavorful, Easy-to-Make Caribbean Delight
Few dishes capture the vibrant essence of Caribbean cuisine like Jamaican Curry Shrimp. Bursting with bold spices, creamy coconut milk, and succulent shrimp, this dish is a celebration of island flavors. Whether you’re craving a taste of Jamaica or looking for a quick yet impressive weeknight meal, this recipe delivers.
Why you’ll love it:
Ready in under 30 minutes – Perfect for busy cooks.
Packed with authentic spices – A true taste of the Caribbean.
Versatile & customizable – Adjust heat and ingredients to your liking.
Healthy & nutritious – High in protein, low in calories, and packed with beneficial spices like turmeric.
Let’s dive into this easy, restaurant-worthy dish that will transport your taste buds to the tropics!
A Taste of Jamaica: The History of Curry Shrimp
Curry dishes arrived in Jamaica through Indian indentured laborers in the 19th century, blending with local ingredients to create a uniquely Caribbean flavor. Jamaican curry powder, a key ingredient, is different from its Indian counterpart—it includes turmeric, allspice, and Scotch bonnet peppers for a bolder, slightly sweet heat.
Shrimp curry, or “Curry Prawn” as it’s often called in Jamaica, is a coastal favorite, frequently served with rice, festivals (sweet fried dumplings), or breadfruit. Its rich, aromatic sauce makes it a standout dish in Jamaican cuisine.
Fun Fact: In Jamaica, seafood curries are especially popular in coastal towns like Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, where fresh catches are abundant. The dish is often enjoyed at family gatherings and beachside cookouts, showcasing the island’s love for bold, communal meals.
Why You’ll Love This Jamaican Curry Shrimp Recipe
Quick & Easy – Minimal prep, fast cooking time.
Bold & Aromatic – Layers of spice, heat, and creaminess.
Healthy & Protein-Packed – Shrimp is low-calorie yet high in protein.
Meal-Prep Friendly – Tastes even better the next day!
Diet-Friendly – Naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free.
Ingredients & Equipment
For the Curry Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined (tail-on optional)
- 2 tbsp Jamaican curry powder (or regular curry powder + ½ tsp allspice)
- 1 tsp ground turmeric (adds earthy flavor and health benefits)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (for depth)
- Juice of 1 lime (brightens the dish)
- 1 tsp thyme, dried or fresh (essential for authentic Jamaican flavor)
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper (or habanero), finely chopped (adjust for heat)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green for color)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken or seafood broth (enhances umami)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or coconut oil for extra flavor)
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)
For Serving (Optional):
- Steamed white rice or coconut rice
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
- Lime wedges
- Sliced avocado (for a creamy contrast)
Equipment:
- Large skillet or Dutch oven (for even cooking)
- Wooden spoon (to prevent scratching pans)
- Chef’s knife & cutting board
- Measuring spoons & cups
Pro Tips:
- For extra depth, add 1 tsp grated ginger or ½ tsp allspice to the curry.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, use light coconut milk or simmer longer.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Shrimp
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning adherence.
- In a bowl, toss shrimp with 1 tbsp curry powder, turmeric, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Let marinate for 10 minutes while prepping other ingredients.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and Scotch bonnet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Bloom the Curry Powder
- Stir in remaining 1 tbsp curry powder and cook for 1 minute to enhance flavor. This step is crucial for unlocking the spice’s full potential.
4. Simmer the Sauce
- Pour in coconut milk and broth, stirring well to combine.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Cook the Shrimp
- Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
- Stir in butter (if using) and lime juice for brightness.
6. Adjust & Serve
- Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lime as needed.
- Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with rice or bread.
Expert Tips & Troubleshooting
🔥 Too spicy? Remove Scotch bonnet seeds or reduce quantity. For a milder version, use ½ pepper or substitute with bell pepper.
🍤 Overcooked shrimp? Cook just until pink—they continue cooking in hot sauce. Remove from heat as soon as they curl.
🥥 Sauce too thin? Simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water).
🌿 Not flavorful enough? Add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity or more thyme for earthiness.
Variations & Customizations
🌿 Vegetarian: Swap shrimp for chickpeas, tofu, or jackfruit.
🍗 Jamaican Curry Chicken: Use boneless chicken thighs instead of shrimp (adjust cooking time to 15–20 mins).
🌶 Extra Heat: Add 1 tsp jerk seasoning or more Scotch bonnet.
🥥 Creamier Sauce: Use full-fat coconut milk or stir in 1 tbsp Greek yogurt at the end.
🍠 Heartier Version: Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes (parboil first for faster cooking).
Serving & Presentation Ideas
- Classic: Over steamed rice with a side of fried plantains.
- Low-Carb: With cauliflower rice or roasted veggies.
- Garnish: Fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or sliced avocado.
- Family-Style: Serve in a large bowl with warm roti or naan for dipping.
Pro Tip: For an elegant touch, serve in coconut shells or with a colorful veggie slaw on the side.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time!
Freezer: Freeze (without rice) for 1 month. Thaw in fridge before reheating.
Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet with a splash of broth or coconut milk to revive creaminess.
Meal Prep Hack: Double the sauce and freeze it separately for quick future meals—just add fresh shrimp when ready to cook.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes! Thaw completely in the fridge and pat dry before marinating to avoid excess water in the sauce.
Q: What if I can’t find Jamaican curry powder?
A: Mix 2 tbsp regular curry powder + ½ tsp allspice + ¼ tsp cayenne for a close substitute.
Q: Is this dish very spicy?
A: It’s adjustable—omit Scotch bonnet or use less for mild heat. You can also add 1 tbsp brown sugar to mellow the spice.
Q: Can I make it ahead for a party?
A: Yes! Prep the sauce in advance and add shrimp just before serving to keep them tender.
Final Thoughts
Jamaican Curry Shrimp is a flavor explosion that’s simple enough for weeknights but impressive for guests. With its creamy, spicy, and aromatic sauce, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ready to try it? Tag your creations with #JamaicanCurryShrimp—we’d love to see your take on this Caribbean classic! 🍤🔥