Tamarind Shrimp Curry & Rice

Instructions

1. Prepare Aromatics

   5 min hands-on

   • Thinly slice the shallots.
   • Cut the ginger into thin matchsticks.
   • Mince the garlic and set aside.

2. Rehydrate Chili

   2 min hands-on10 min waiting

   • Soak sun-dried chili in warm water for 10 minutes if needed.
   • Finely chop the chili.

3. Prepare Tamarind

   2 min hands-on10 min waiting

   • Soak raw tamarind in warm water for 10 minutes.
   • Mash to extract pulp and strain out fibers.

4. Temper Spices

   2 min hands-on

   • Heat coconut oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
   • Add mustard seeds and cook until they pop.

5. Sauté Aromatics

   6 min hands-on

   • Add sliced shallots and cook until softened and golden, about 5 minutes.
   • Add ginger and garlic, cooking for 1 minute while stirring.

6. Add Spices

   • Stir in chili powder, ground turmeric, and black pepper.
   • Cook for 30 seconds to release aromas.

7. Simmer Curry Base

   1 min hands-on10 min waiting

   • Add chopped tomatoes, water, and tamarind pulp.
   • Season with salt, stir, cover, and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.

8. Cook Shrimp

   1 min hands-on4 min waiting

   • Add raw shrimp to the curry and stir to coat.
   • Cover and simmer on low heat for 3-5 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked.

9. Prepare Rice

   3 min hands-on15 min waiting

   • Rinse rice under cold water until clear.
   • Use a 2:1 water to rice ratio, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
   • Cover and cook for 10 minutes until tender and fluffy.
   • Let rest with lid on for 5 minutes.

10. Prepare Garnish

    2 min hands-on

    • Heat coconut oil in a small frying pan over medium heat.
    • Add remaining mustard seeds and cook until they pop.
    • Add bay leaves and cook until fragrant and crisp.

11. Garnish and Serve

    1 min hands-on

    • Pour spiced oil with mustard seeds and bay leaves over the curry.
    • Tear fresh cilantro leaves and sprinkle on top.
    • Serve curry hot with rice.
    • Cooking tips:
    • For a richer curry, add a splash of coconut milk during step 7 for a creamy texture.
    • To enhance flavor, toast bay leaves in a dry pan before adding to garnish oil.
    • For a thicker curry, simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes before adding shrimp.
    • Adjust heat level by adding more or less chili powder or using a milder chili variety.