Shrimp and Broccoli Curry over Fragrant Jasmine Rice

This simple Shrimp Curry is quick to prepare and full of flavor. Bright vegetables, creamy coconut milk, and tender shrimp come together for a hearty, satisfying meal. Using microwaveable brown rice makes this an easy weeknight dinner the whole family will enjoy.

Side shot of shrimp curry in a metal bowl on a white and green cloth.
A family-friendly shrimp curry that’s quick, delicious, and simple to make.

👩🏻‍🍳 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This shrimp curry is fast, healthy, and easy to customize. It cooks in one pan for minimal cleanup and delivers comforting curry flavor without a long ingredient list. The coconut milk creates a silky sauce that pairs perfectly with shrimp and broccoli, while brown rice adds whole-grain substance. The recipe is flexible — swap proteins or grains if you prefer.

In short: quick prep, simple ingredients, balanced nutrition, and family-friendly flavor.

🥘 Ingredients Needed

Overhead shot of ingredients- brown rice, broccoli florets, frozen shrimp, coconut milk, olive oil, curry powder, and salt.
Simple, everyday ingredients make this an ideal weeknight dinner.

For convenience, the full ingredient list and measurements appear in the recipe card below.

  • Broccoli florets – fresh is best for texture and color.
  • Brown rice – microwaveable packets save time; cooked white rice or quinoa also work.
  • Olive oil – for sautéing the shrimp.
  • Frozen shrimp – raw and deveined (no need to thaw if cooking from frozen).
  • Curry powder – the main seasoning; adjust amount to taste.
  • Salt – to taste.
  • Unsweetened coconut milk – creates a rich, aromatic sauce (lite works if you prefer).

🔪 Instructions

Process shots for prepping ingredients and cooking in a skillet.
Only a few dishes are needed for this straightforward recipe.

This overview highlights the key steps; the recipe card below lists exact measurements and full directions.

  • Lightly steam the broccoli: place florets in a bowl, cover loosely, and microwave for about 90 seconds. Set aside.
  • Cook the brown rice according to package directions and set aside.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes until they begin to turn pink.
  • Sprinkle in curry powder and salt, stirring so the spices coat the shrimp. Cook until shrimp are nearly done.
  • Add the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and coconut milk. Stir and heat for 3–4 minutes until the mixture is hot and the shrimp are fully opaque and cooked through.

Serve immediately while hot.

👪 FAQs

What size shrimp is best for this dish?

Large shrimp (for example, 31–35 count per pound) work well because they hold their texture. Frozen raw shrimp are convenient and economical. Adjust portions based on appetite and cost.

What does coconut milk add to the curry?

Coconut milk lends a creamy, slightly sweet richness that balances curry spices and complements seafood very well.

Will coconut milk curdle?

Coconut milk can separate if boiled vigorously, so add it near the end and warm gently, stirring to combine until everything is heated through.

What can I substitute for the coconut milk?

As an alternative, mix 1 cup half-and-half (or milk), 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon coconut extract to mimic the creaminess and subtle coconut flavor.

Bowl of shrimp curry ready to serve.
Ready in about 25 minutes, this meal is perfect for busy evenings.

🧊 Storage

Allow the curry to cool completely before refrigerating. Store in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days. Reheat in the microwave in 30-second increments, covered with a damp paper towel, until warmed through.

Freezing is possible but may affect the texture of shrimp since seafood has already been frozen once. For best texture and flavor, enjoy this dish fresh.

💭 Helpful Tips

  • No need to thaw shrimp if you’re using frozen raw shrimp; they can be cooked from frozen. If substituting with chicken, thaw and cook thoroughly.
  • Avoid overcooking shrimp — they are done when they turn opaque and curl slightly.
  • Use unsweetened coconut milk to keep the sauce balanced and not overly sweet.

📖 Variations

  • Substitute cooked quinoa or a rice/quinoa blend for a gluten-free alternative and extra texture.
  • Swap shrimp for bite-sized chicken pieces; cook until they reach 165°F (74°C).
  • Make it vegan by using firm tofu or extra vegetables like bell peppers, cauliflower, or snap peas.
  • Try scallops or mussels for a different seafood profile.
  • Add spice with sliced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne, or sriracha to taste.

🥗 Suggested Side Dishes

Serve the curry with warm bread, mango chutney, or samosas to soak up the sauce. A simple apple-walnut salad or a green salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the richness of the curry and keeps the meal balanced.

🍞 Related Recipes

If you enjoy this shrimp curry, try other quick curry dishes such as a one-pot curry pasta, slow cooker red lentil curry, or a zucchini curry-lime soup for varied flavors and textures.

Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe

If you make this recipe and like it, please consider rating it or sharing a photo of your dish. Snap a picture and tag it with a relevant hashtag to inspire others.

📋 Recipe Card

Side shot of shrimp curry in a metal bowl.

Shrimp Curry with Broccoli and Rice

Quick, easy, and wholesome: a one-pan shrimp curry with broccoli and brown rice that’s perfect for weeknights.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 12 ounces microwaveable brown rice (or cooked brown/white rice)
  • ½ tablespoon olive oil
  • 12 ounces frozen raw deveined shrimp (no need to thaw)
  • 2 teaspoons curry powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk (lite is fine)

Instructions

  1. Lightly steam the broccoli: place florets in a bowl, cover loosely, and microwave on high for about 90 seconds. Set aside.
  2. Cook rice according to package directions and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook 2–3 minutes until they begin to turn pink.
  4. Add curry powder and salt, stirring to coat the shrimp. Continue cooking until shrimp are almost opaque.
  5. Stir in the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and coconut milk. Heat, stirring, for 3–4 minutes until everything is hot and shrimp are fully cooked.
  6. Adjust seasoning and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Quinoa or a rice/quinoa blend makes a tasty alternative to brown rice.
  • Watch the shrimp closely — they cook quickly and become rubbery if overcooked.
  • To feed a larger family, double the rice and add ½ cup more coconut milk and 1 teaspoon extra curry powder to maintain flavor and creaminess.
  • No coconut milk? Mix 1 cup half-and-half, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon sugar, and ¼ teaspoon coconut extract as a substitute.

Nutrition (estimate per serving)

Calories: 552 kcal | Carbohydrates: 72 g | Protein: 26 g | Fat: 19 g

Update Notes: This recipe post was originally published earlier and has been refreshed with clearer instructions and photos.

Thanks for reading and happy cooking. Enjoy this easy, flavorful shrimp curry any time you need a fast, nourishing dinner.

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