Imagine a dish that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Thailand with just one bite - a mouthwatering symphony of spicy, tangy, and aromatic flavors that will make your taste buds dance! This Chili Garlic Shrimp with Thai Lime Rice is not just a meal, it's a culinary adventure that promises to elevate your home cooking from ordinary to extraordinary in just 25 minutes. Whether you're a seafood lover, a spice enthusiast, or simply craving something extraordinary, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Thai
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Garlic, minced
- Chili paste
- Lime juice
- Thai jasmine rice
- Vegetable oil
- Salt
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Rinse the Thai jasmine rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. In a rice cooker or medium saucepan, combine the rice with water (typically
- 5 cups water per 1 cup rice). Cook until tender and fluffy, about 15-18 minutes.
- While the rice is cooking, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they will sear properly and not steam. Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, being careful not to burn.
- Add the prepared shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and develop a light golden color.
- Stir in the chili paste, coating the shrimp evenly. The heat will help bloom the chili's flavors. Cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the shrimp, which will add brightness and help deglaze the pan.
- Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and transfer to a serving platter. Arrange the chili garlic shrimp on top of the rice.
- Garnish generously with freshly chopped cilantro for added freshness and color. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Pat shrimp completely dry before cooking to achieve a perfect golden sear and prevent steaming.
- Use high-quality, fresh chili paste for the most authentic and vibrant flavor profile.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when cooking shrimp - cook in batches if necessary to ensure each piece gets beautifully caramelized.
- Fresh lime juice is crucial - bottled juice can't compare to the bright, zesty flavor of freshly squeezed.
- Watch your garlic carefully when sautéing; it can burn quickly and turn bitter.
- For extra heat, choose a spicier chili paste or add a few red pepper flakes.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the shrimp at its most tender and flavorful peak.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 180mg
