Indian Butter Shrimp
If you’re searching for a dish that embodies rich flavors, creamy textures, and a touch of warmth, look no further than Indian Butter Shrimp. This delightful recipe marries tender shrimp with a luscious sauce that is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re entertaining guests, Indian Butter Shrimp is sure to impress everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this irresistible dish that will transport your taste buds straight to India!
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
Indian Butter Shrimp has all the elements of a fantastic meal: it’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and can be served with various sides. This dish combines the aromatic spices of Indian cuisine with the comforting creaminess of butter and cream, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you serve it over steaming basmati rice, with warm naan bread, or alongside a crisp salad, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite!
The Ingredient Lineup
To create this mouthwatering Indian Butter Shrimp, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled, tail removed, and deveined
- 1/2 tsp minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp grated ginger
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder or paprika
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup diced red onion
- 1 cup diced tomato
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 10-15 cashews
- 1 tsp red chili powder or paprika
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro, to garnish
Equipment at a Glance
To make your Indian Butter Shrimp, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Large skillet: For cooking the shrimp and sauce.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: To stir and combine the ingredients.
- Measuring spoons and cups: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Knife and cutting board: To chop the vegetables and shrimp.
- Serving dish: To present your delicious creation.
Build Indian Butter Shrimp Step by Step
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a bowl, combine the shrimp, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, oil, and lemon juice. Mix until the shrimp are well-coated and let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes. This step enhances the flavors and ensures the shrimp are tender and delicious.
Step 2: Sauté Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Add the diced red onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and fragrant. The sweetness of the onions will balance the spices beautifully.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Cashews
Next, add the diced tomatoes and cashews to the skillet. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices. This forms the base of your sauce.
Step 4: Incorporate Spices
Add 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of grated ginger, red chili powder, garam masala, and sugar to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for about 2 minutes, letting the spices bloom and infuse the mixture with their rich aromas.
Step 5: Add Water and Simmer
Pour in the 1/2 cup of water and stir well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The water will help create a lovely sauce.
Step 6: Cook the Shrimp
Now it’s time to add the marinated shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 3-5 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become tough when overdone.
Step 7: Finish with Cream and Butter
Once the shrimp are cooked, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the heavy cream. Stir until the butter is melted and the sauce is creamy and velvety. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your Indian Butter Shrimp with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot with rice, naan, or your preferred side dish. Enjoy the rich, buttery flavor in every bite!
Quick Replacement Ideas
If you find yourself missing an ingredient, don’t worry! Here are some quick replacements to keep your dish on track:
- Shrimp: Substitute with firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Unsalted butter: Use ghee or olive oil for a different flavor profile.
- Heavy cream: Coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
- Cashews: Almonds or sunflower seeds can be a great nut-free option.
Things That Go Wrong
Even the best of us can run into a few hiccups while cooking. Here are some common issues and how to avoid them:
- Overcooked Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on them. They should only take a few minutes to become perfectly tender.
- Too Spicy: If the dish turns out spicier than you like, add a bit more cream or sugar to balance the heat.
- Watery Sauce: If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken.
- Lack of Flavor: Ensure you’re using fresh spices and seasonings for the best flavor. Adjust salt and spices to your taste.
How to Store & Reheat
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because this dish is so delicious!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary.
- Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can overcook the shrimp.
Popular Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw and drain the shrimp before marinating them. Frozen shrimp can work well in this recipe as long as they’re properly prepared.
What can I serve with Indian Butter Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with basmati rice, naan bread, or a fresh cucumber salad. You can also serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
How spicy is Indian Butter Shrimp?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preferences. Use less red chili powder or substitute with paprika for a milder flavor, or add more for extra heat!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just add the shrimp and finish cooking when you’re ready to serve.
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Hungry for More?
If you’re craving more flavorful recipes like Indian Butter Shrimp, keep exploring the world of culinary delights. From spicy curries to comforting stews, there’s always something new to discover that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your heart. Happy cooking!
Indian Butter Shrimp
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine the shrimp, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, turmeric powder, red chili powder, oil, and lemon juice. Mix until the shrimp are well-coated and let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Add the diced red onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Next, add the diced tomatoes and cashews to the skillet. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.
- Add 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of grated ginger, red chili powder, garam masala, and sugar to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for about 2 minutes.
- Pour in the 1/2 cup of water and stir well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes.
- Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 3-5 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Once the shrimp are cooked, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the heavy cream. Stir until the butter is melted and the sauce is creamy and velvety.
- Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your Indian Butter Shrimp with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute shrimp with firm tofu.
- Use ghee or olive oil instead of butter for unique flavors.
- Coconut cream can replace heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative.
