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Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
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kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
290 | 22g | 18g | 11g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
7g | 1g | 15g | 1.1g |
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Fingerroot and Coconut Milk Curry with Shrimp is the kind of dish that lovingly tickles both memory and taste buds, bringing to life flavors that are both exotically distant and comfortingly familiar. This recipe effortlessly captures the essence of Afro-Southern fusion—a harmonious mingle of vibrant, bold tastes that invoke feelings of warmth and home. Growing up with Nigerian parents in Atlanta, my kitchen has always been a confluence of Southern hospitality and the spirited zest of West African cuisine. This recipe, Fingerroot and Coconut Milk Curry with Shrimp, is an extension of those roots, enriched by global influences that make it a delightful addition to any culinary repertoire.
The Magic of Fingerroot and Coconut Milk
Fingerroot, often overlooked, is a gem in the pantry. Its slightly peppery, ginger-like flavor marries beautifully with the creaminess of coconut milk, creating a base that is both rich and fragrant. This combination alone is enough to lift the spirits on a rainy day or serve as a talking point at a dinner party. The use of coconut milk not only enhances the creaminess but also provides a host of health benefits, including being a good source of lauric acid, which can aid in weight loss and improve cholesterol levels. When you have a dish that brings together the earthiness of fingerroot with the luxuriant texture of coconut milk, you know you’re in for something special.
The Symphony of Ingredients
Each ingredient in this dish plays a pivotal role. The Thai red curry paste brings a slow, building heat that is beautifully balanced by the sweetness of palm sugar and the tartness of lime juice. Cherry tomatoes and red bell peppers provide bursts of freshness, while herbs like basil and cilantro add an aromatic lift. The shrimp, succulent and tender, soaks up all these vibrant flavors, creating a dish that is both intricate and comforting.
If you love dishes like Thai Green Curry or African Groundnut Stew, you’ll find this recipe a delightful new addition. It even complements other Afro-Southern classics such as Jollof Rice or Southern Fried Plantains. The versatility of the curry means it can be enjoyed over steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or even a bed of sautéed greens for a lighter option.
This Fingerroot and Coconut Milk Curry with Shrimp doesn’t just nourish the body; it fosters a sense of shared heritage and culinary adventure. It’s a testimony to how food transcends borders, bringing warmth, memory, and a bit of spice into our lives. If you’re ready to take your taste buds on a flavorful journey, gather your ingredients and let this heartwarming dish guide your way.
For more on the nutritional benefits of coconut milk, check out this informative article from WebMD. To explore the unique properties of fingerroot, you might find this Healthline piece particularly enlightening.
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What You’ll Need
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups coconut milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fingerroot, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup lemongrass, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons palm sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 1/2 cup basil leaves
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
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Method
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Step One
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the Thai red curry paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
Step Two
Add the fingerroot and lemongrass to the pan. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are softened and aromatic.
Step Three
Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth. Stir well to combine with the curry paste mixture. Bring to a simmer.
Step Four
Add the fish sauce, lime juice, and palm sugar to the pan. Stir to dissolve the sugar and incorporate all the ingredients.
Step Five
Add the shrimp to the curry mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Step Six
Stir in the cherry tomatoes and red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant in color.
Step Seven
Season the curry with salt and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Step Eight
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the basil leaves and chopped cilantro.
Step Nine
Serve the Fingerroot and Coconut Milk Curry with Shrimp over jasmine rice or noodles. Enjoy your delicious homemade Thai curry!
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