Spicy Coconut Shrimp Stir-Fry: A Flavor-Packed Weeknight Wonder

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If you’re craving something vibrant, bold, and incredibly satisfying, this Spicy Coconut Shrimp Stir-Fry is going to steal the spotlight on your dinner table. Bursting with fragrant aromatics, crisp-tender veggies, plump shrimp, and a creamy, spicy coconut sauce, this dish is a quick and irresistible way to bring Southeast Asian flavors into your kitchen. Best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes and tastes like a restaurant-quality meal—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.

Whether you’re a seafood lover, a fan of spicy dishes, or just trying to find more ways to enjoy nutritious, colorful meals at home, this recipe checks all the boxes. Let’s dive into why this recipe works so beautifully, how you can customize it, and how to make it a star of your weekly meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Coconut Shrimp Stir-Fry

  • Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, start to finish. Perfect for busy nights.
  • One Pan Wonder – Everything is cooked in one skillet or wok, keeping cleanup minimal.
  • Flexible & Customizable – Swap veggies, adjust the heat, use chicken or tofu if needed.
  • Packed with Flavor – Coconut milk, ginger, garlic, lime, and chili create a sauce that’s creamy, spicy, tangy, and downright addictive.
  • Nutritious – Loaded with protein and colorful vegetables, it’s as wholesome as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this incredible stir-fry. Many of these ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find at your local grocery store.

For the Stir-Fry:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined 🍤
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil or neutral oil
  • 2 cups broccoli florets 🥦
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
  • 1–2 red chilies, sliced (adjust for heat) 🌶️
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Fresh cilantro or Thai basil, for garnish
  • Optional: Cooked jasmine rice or rice noodles 🍚

For the Spicy Coconut Sauce:

  • 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce (optional, but adds rich umami)
  • 1 tbsp sriracha or Thai chili paste (sambal oelek is great)
  • 1 tsp brown sugar or honey
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • Salt, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Spicy Coconut Sauce

In a bowl or measuring cup, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, fish sauce, sriracha, brown sugar, lime zest, and a pinch of salt. Set aside. This sauce can even be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days!

2. Sear the Shrimp

Heat 1 tbsp coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with a little salt and pepper, then sear for 1–2 minutes per side until just pink and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Sauté the Veggies

Add the remaining 1 tbsp oil. Toss in garlic, ginger, and red chilies—stir for 30 seconds until aromatic. Then add broccoli, red bell pepper, and red onion. Stir-fry for about 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.

4. Add the Sauce

Pour in your prepped spicy coconut sauce and bring to a simmer. Let it cook down for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy.

5. Finish with Shrimp and Lime

Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss to coat in the luscious sauce. Squeeze in fresh lime juice and taste—adjust salt, spice, or sweetness to your preference.

6. Serve & Garnish

Spoon the stir-fry over jasmine rice or toss with cooked rice noodles. Top with fresh herbs like Thai basil or cilantro, and add chopped peanuts or crispy shallots for a delightful crunch.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Mixing bowl or measuring cup (for sauce)
  • Cutting board & sharp knife
  • Grater or microplane (for ginger and lime zest)
  • Tongs or a wooden spoon
  • Citrus juicer (optional, but helpful)

Pro Tips & Recipe Variations

  • Make it Vegan: Swap the shrimp for cubed tofu or tempeh and skip the fish sauce. Add a splash of soy sauce for extra depth.
  • Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or shirataki noodles for a lighter version.
  • Veggie Swap: Use snap peas, zucchini, carrots, or baby corn depending on what’s in your fridge.
  • Boost the Crunch: Sprinkle roasted peanuts or crispy shallots on top for a contrast in texture.
  • Mild Version: Use only one chili (or skip them altogether) and tone down the sriracha if needed.

Storage & Leftovers

This stir-fry keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days.

  • To Store: Let cool completely and store in an airtight container.
  • To Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the stir-fry, but shrimp texture can change slightly. If freezing, do so without rice and consume within a month.

Food & Drink Pairings

  • Drink Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a Thai iced tea balances the spice perfectly.
  • Appetizer Ideas: Pair with fresh summer rolls or a cucumber salad to keep things light and fresh.
  • Dessert Suggestion: End with mango sticky rice or coconut sorbet to carry the tropical vibe through to dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure they are thawed completely and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

How spicy is this dish?

It’s moderately spicy with the sriracha and red chilies, but you can dial the heat up or down easily. Start with less chili if you’re unsure and add more to taste.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes. You can prep the sauce and chop veggies ahead of time. Cook everything fresh when ready to serve for best results.

Is this gluten-free?

It can be! Use tamari instead of soy sauce and double-check the labels on your sriracha and fish sauce.

What kind of coconut milk should I use?

Full-fat canned coconut milk is best for a creamy, rich sauce. Avoid boxed or refrigerated coconut milk as it’s too thin.

A Stir-Fry Worth Sharing

There’s something magical about the combination of coconut, spice, and citrus—especially when it comes together with minimal effort. This Spicy Coconut Shrimp Stir-Fry is proof that you don’t need complicated techniques or hours in the kitchen to create a meal that dazzles your senses.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting friends for dinner, this dish is guaranteed to impress. So roll up your sleeves, fire up the skillet, and enjoy a culinary escape right at home.

👉 Love this recipe? Don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with your foodie friends and pin it for later. And if you want more high-flavor, no-fuss recipes like this, be sure to subscribe to the blog!

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