Shrimp curry with basmati rice

Shrimp with Basmati Rice and Aromatic Sauce – A Quick and Flavorful Delight

If you're looking for a quick yet flavorful recipe, you've come to the right place! Shrimp with basmati rice and an aromatic sauce is the perfect choice for an elegant yet easy-to-prepare dinner. This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also an opportunity to enjoy a healthy meal rich in protein and essential nutrients.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Recipe History

Shrimp are a versatile ingredient used for centuries in kitchens around the world. These crustaceans are not only delicious but also an excellent source of lean protein. Basmati rice, with its delicate aroma and fluffy texture, perfectly complements the intense flavor of the shrimp. This recipe combines influences from various cultures, turning your meal into a culinary journey.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

- 12 medium shrimp, peeled (tails included)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil (for boiling)
- 1 tablespoon paprika powder
- For the sauce:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, chopped
- 1 small onion, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tomatoes, peeled and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground pepper
- 225 g basmati rice

Preparing the Shrimp

1. Preparing the Shrimp: Start by peeling the shrimp of their shells and heads, leaving the tails intact. Make a slit on the back to ensure even cooking. The tails will form a beautiful "fan" when cooked!

2. Boiling the Shrimp: In a large pot, bring water with olive oil and paprika to a boil. Add the shrimp and let them boil for about 8 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. After boiling, strain them and reserve the cooking liquid.

Preparing the Sauce

3. The Aromatic Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the garlic, ginger, onion, and bell pepper, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until tender and fragrant.

4. Adding the Tomatoes: Add the chopped tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Cooking the Rice

5. Preparing the Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the tomato sauce and the reserved shrimp cooking liquid. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice absorbs all the liquid and becomes tender (about 15-20 minutes). If the rice is not done but the liquid has evaporated, add a little water and continue cooking.

Serving

6. Presentation: Serve the rice on a fresh lettuce leaf, surrounded by the shrimp. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Helpful Tips

- Choosing the Shrimp: Use fresh shrimp, preferably gray ones, as pink shrimp can become rubbery and take less time to cook.
- Peeling the Tomatoes: To peel tomatoes easily, dip them in boiling water for a few seconds, then immediately transfer them to a bowl of cold water.
- Vegetarian Option: You can replace the shrimp with tofu or vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant for a delicious vegetarian option.

Nutritional Benefits

This shrimp with basmati rice recipe is not only delicious but also extremely nutritious. Shrimp are rich in protein and contain omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health. Basmati rice, on the other hand, is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing the energy needed for an active day.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, but make sure to fully thaw them before cooking to achieve an even texture.
- How can I make this recipe spicier? Add chopped chili peppers or chili flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
- What drinks pair well with this meal? I recommend a dry white wine or a cocktail with lime and mint, which will perfectly complement the dish's flavors.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to prepare these delicious shrimp with basmati rice, you have no excuse not to try this recipe at home. Whether it's a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this meal will bring a smile to your loved ones' faces. Enjoy your meal!