Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Shrimp Masala Recipe – Quick Indian Shrimp Curry with Coconut Milk

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a delicious, flavorful meal that doesn’t take forever to make. This Shrimp Masala is exactly that – a quick Indian shrimp curry bursting with flavor, perfect for a weeknight dinner. I first made this when I was craving something comforting and spicy, and it’s been a family favorite ever since!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Shrimp Masala recipe is a winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly fast – seriously, ready in under 30 minutes! The flavors are wonderfully complex, thanks to the garam masala and a touch of cayenne. Plus, it’s easily customizable to your spice preference. Whether you like a mild simmer or a fiery kick, this recipe has you covered.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Shrimp Masala:

• 1 pound frozen large raw shrimp
• ?? cup frozen onion masala
• ?? cup water
• ?? teaspoon garam masala
• ?? teaspoon salt
• ?? teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoon heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few tips to make sure everything comes together perfectly:

Frozen Shrimp: Selecting & Preparing

Frozen shrimp is super convenient, and honestly, often fresher than what you find at the counter. Look for shrimp that’s been properly frozen – no ice crystals or freezer burn. I usually buy large shrimp (21-25 count per pound) because they stay nice and plump. No need to thaw completely; just add them frozen to the pot!

Onion Masala: Regional Variations & Homemade Options

Onion masala is a pre-made base for many Indian curries, and it’s a huge time saver. You can find it in most Indian grocery stores. Different brands and regions have slightly different flavors, so feel free to experiment! If you’re feeling ambitious, you can absolutely make your own – there are tons of recipes online. About 1.5 – 2 cups of homemade onion masala would work well here.

Garam Masala: A Blend of Warmth

Garam masala is a blend of warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. It’s what gives Indian food that signature cozy flavor. Every family has their own blend, so the taste can vary. I like to use a good quality store-bought garam masala, but feel free to use your favorite! About 1-2 teaspoons is a good starting point.

Cayenne Pepper: Adjusting the Spice Level

Cayenne pepper adds a lovely kick! But, spice levels are so personal. Start with a smaller amount (like ¼ teaspoon) and add more to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!

Coconut Milk vs. Heavy Cream: Flavor & Texture Differences

This is where you get to customize! Heavy cream will give you a richer, more decadent curry. Coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness and a lovely tropical flavor. I often use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option, and it’s absolutely delicious.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. Add the frozen shrimp, onion masala, water, garam masala, salt, and cayenne to your Instant Pot or a stovetop pot.
2. Instant Pot: Secure the lid and set it to high pressure for just 1 minute. Once the cooking time is up, do a quick release of the pressure.
3. Stovetop: Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and is fully cooked through. Keep an eye on it – shrimp cooks quickly!
4. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk (if using). This adds a lovely richness and helps to balance the flavors.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro. A sprinkle of cilantro brightens everything up!
6. Serve immediately with basmati rice or pea pulao.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years to make this Shrimp Masala even better:

Achieving the Perfect Shrimp Texture

The key to perfect shrimp is not overcooking it. Overcooked shrimp is rubbery and tough. Cook just until it turns pink and opaque.

Balancing the Spice Levels

Taste as you go! Add more cayenne pepper a little at a time until you reach your desired level of heat. A squeeze of lime juice at the end can also help balance the flavors.

Using Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp

While I love the convenience of frozen, you can definitely use fresh shrimp. Just make sure it’s deveined and peeled. Reduce the cooking time slightly, as fresh shrimp cooks faster.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Shrimp Masala

Substitute the shrimp with cauliflower florets or chickpeas. Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.

Gluten-Free Shrimp Masala

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check the label on your onion masala to ensure it doesn’t contain any hidden gluten.

Spice Level Adjustments: Mild, Medium, Hot

• Mild: Omit the cayenne pepper altogether.
• Medium: Use ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper.
• Hot: Use ½ – 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Festival Adaptations: Serving During Special Occasions

My aunt always makes this during Diwali – it’s a lighter, quicker option when she’s already busy with other festive cooking!

Serving Suggestions

This Shrimp Masala is fantastic with:

Rice Pairings: Basmati, Pulao & More

Basmati rice is a classic choice. Pea pulao (rice cooked with peas) is also delicious.

Bread Options: Naan, Roti, or Paratha

Warm naan, roti, or paratha are perfect for soaking up all that flavorful sauce.

Side Dishes to Complement the Curry

A simple cucumber raita (yogurt dip) or a side of sautéed spinach would be lovely.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerating Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Shrimp Masala

Shrimp doesn’t always freeze perfectly (it can get a little mushy), but this masala will still be tasty! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or coconut milk if it seems too thick.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?

Yes, absolutely! Just reduce the cooking time slightly.

What is onion masala, and where can I find it?

Onion masala is a pre-made base for Indian curries. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores.

Can I adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat?

Definitely! Start with a small amount and add more to taste.

What’s the best way to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Don’t overcook it! Cook just until it turns pink and opaque.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

You can prepare the masala base (onion masala, garam masala, cayenne, salt, water) ahead of time. Add the shrimp and cook when you’re ready to serve.

Is it possible to make this Shrimp Masala spicier?

Yes! Add more cayenne pepper, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a chopped green chili.

Enjoy! I hope you love this Shrimp Masala as much as my family does. Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you!