Somali Shrimp Curry

Somali Shrimp Curry Recipe - Authentic and Flavorful

Region / culture: Somalia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Somali Shrimp Curry is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the delicate taste of shrimp with a rich and creamy coconut curry sauce. This dish is a popular choice in Somali cuisine and is often served with rice or bread.

History

Somali Shrimp Curry has its roots in Somali cuisine, which is known for its bold flavors and use of spices. The dish likely originated in coastal regions of Somalia, where seafood is abundant and widely enjoyed. Over time, the recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to the dish.

Ingredients

1 cup of chopped onion
1 tsp of garlic powder
1 tbsp of curry powder
1 tsp of turmeric
1 tbsp of salt
0.5 tsp of chili powder
2 oz (57 g) of butter or oil
1 cup of coconut cream
2 lb (907 g) of uncooked and peeled shrimp
2 cups of diced potatoes
1 cup of water
2 oz (57 g) of lemon juice
1 cup of coconut cream

How to prepare

In a 4 qt (3.78-liter) saucepan, sauté the chopped onion, garlic powder, curry powder, turmeric, salt, chili powder, butter or oil until soft but not browned.
Add the coconut cream, uncooked and peeled shrimp, diced potatoes, and 1 cup of water.
Simmer covered tightly until tender, approximately 20 minutes.
Stir in the lemon juice and 1 cup of coconut cream.
Continue cooking until slightly thickened, about 10 minutes more.
Serve hot with rice and accompaniments such as the following in a large sectioned relish dish.

Variations

Add vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots for added color and nutrition.
Use chicken or beef instead of shrimp for a different protein option.
Adjust the level of spice by adding more or less chili powder to suit your taste preferences.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to sauté the onions and spices until they are soft but not browned to release their full flavor.

- Simmer the curry covered tightly to ensure that the shrimp and potatoes cook evenly.

- Stir in the lemon juice at the end of cooking to add a bright and tangy flavor to the dish.

- Serve the curry hot with rice or bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Somali Shrimp Curry hot with steamed rice or bread for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped peanuts for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the onions and spices to release their flavors.

- Simmer the curry covered tightly to ensure even cooking.

- Stir in the lemon juice at the end of cooking to brighten the flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a stronger flavor.

- Substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes for a different twist on the dish.

- Use light coconut milk instead of coconut cream for a lighter version of the curry.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the curry ahead of time and reheat before serving.

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

Presentation Ideas

Serve Somali Shrimp Curry in a large serving dish with rice and accompaniments such as chutney or pickles. - Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped peanuts for added color and texture.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Somali Shrimp Curry with a side of naan bread or roti for a complete meal.

- Pair with a fresh salad or vegetable dish for added nutrition.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

- Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

400

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 23g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 3g

Fats

- Total Fat: 24g

- Saturated Fat: 18g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 30g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

- Vitamin C: 15%

- Calcium: 8%

- Iron: 20%

Alergens

Contains shellfish and coconut

Summary

Somali Shrimp Curry is a rich and flavorful dish that is high in protein and healthy fats. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a balanced meal.

Summary

Somali Shrimp Curry is a delicious and aromatic dish that combines the flavors of shrimp, coconut, and spices. With a rich and creamy sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next meal. Serve with rice or bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory that I hold close to my heart. It was many years ago, during a trip to Somalia, that I first tasted this delicious shrimp curry. I had always been fascinated by different cuisines and loved to try new dishes, so when I heard about a local family that was known for their amazing curry recipes, I knew I had to pay them a visit.

I was welcomed into their home with open arms and treated to a feast of traditional Somali dishes. The one that stood out to me the most was the shrimp curry. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before – a perfect blend of spices and flavors that danced on my tongue with each bite. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make it for myself.

I spent the next few days shadowing the family matriarch in the kitchen, watching her every move as she prepared the curry. She showed me how to toast the spices, how to marinate the shrimp, and most importantly, how to cook it all together to create a dish that was bursting with flavor.

As I watched her work, I couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for her skill and expertise. She had learned this recipe from her own grandmother, who had learned it from hers, passing it down through the generations. It was a tradition that had stood the test of time, and I was honored to be a part of it.

After my time in Somalia had come to an end, I returned home with the recipe for Somali shrimp curry firmly ingrained in my memory. I wasted no time in recreating it in my own kitchen, using the freshest ingredients I could find and following the steps I had learned so carefully.

The first time I made the curry, I was filled with both excitement and nervousness. Would it taste as good as the one I had eaten in Somalia? Would I do justice to the tradition that had been passed down to me? As the aroma of the spices filled my kitchen, I knew that I had succeeded.

I served the shrimp curry to my family that evening, watching as their faces lit up with delight after their first bite. They couldn't believe that I had managed to recreate such a complex and delicious dish. From that moment on, Somali shrimp curry became a staple in our household, a dish that we would enjoy time and time again.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with its bold flavors and comforting warmth.

Now, as I stand in my kitchen, preparing Somali shrimp curry for yet another family gathering, I can't help but feel grateful for the journey that led me to this recipe. It has brought me closer to my own heritage and allowed me to connect with a culture that is not my own.

As I take my first bite of the curry, I am transported back to that warm kitchen in Somalia, surrounded by the sounds and smells of a family coming together over a delicious meal. And I am filled with a sense of joy and contentment, knowing that I have not only learned a new recipe, but also gained a new appreciation for the power of food to bring people together.