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Delightful Shrimp Coconut Risotto

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This creative risotto merges Italian cooking with tropical tastes from coconut milk, lime-marinated shrimp, and fragrant cilantro. A refined dish full of flavor.
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alicia in the kitchen
Updated on Sun, 09 Mar 2025 14:08:53 GMT
A creamy risotto bowl topped with shrimp, a lime slice, and cilantro leaves. Pin it
A creamy risotto bowl topped with shrimp, a lime slice, and cilantro leaves. | Tasteofsavor.com

This delightful fusion recipe was inspired by travels through Thailand, where the surprising combination of coconut milk and rice created an unforgettable impression. Back home, this risotto brings together classic Italian techniques with vibrant Asian flavors, capturing those beachside memories of Koh Samui in every aromatic, lime-scented spoonful.

A Delicious Marriage of Italian and Asian Cuisines

This creamy coconut shrimp risotto delivers impressive results without hours of cooking. The plump shrimp bathe in a velvety coconut sauce while fresh lime adds bright, citrusy notes. It's an elegant yet approachable dish that consistently delights dinner guests.

Essential Ingredients

  • 12 large raw shrimp: Select fresh, high-quality seafood
  • 150g arborio rice: The perfect risotto foundation
  • 1 small shallot: For aromatic base notes
  • 300ml vegetable stock: Creates perfectly tender rice
  • 200ml coconut milk: Adds luxurious creaminess
  • 1 knob butter: For rich flavor
  • Fresh cilantro leaves: Adds herbal brightness
  • Juice and zest of 1/2 lime: Provides citrus punch
  • Pinch cayenne pepper: For gentle heat
  • Salt and pepper: Season to taste

Cooking Method

Prepare the Shrimp
Marinate shrimp briefly in lime and cayenne mixture
Cook the Shrimp
Sauté until they turn pink and just cooked through
Build the Risotto
Gradually add hot stock while stirring constantly
Add Coconut
Incorporate coconut milk for creamy texture
Final Assembly
Return shrimp to rice, garnish with cilantro and lime zest
Un plat de risotto crémeux garni de crevettes sautées et de persil frais. Pin it
Un plat de risotto crémeux garni de crevettes sautées et de persil frais. | Tasteofsavor.com

Creative Variations

For added dimension, try incorporating seared pineapple pieces or toasted cashews. The risotto works beautifully with green curry-marinated chicken for seafood-free occasions. Serve with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc to complement the tropical flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What kind of rice works best for this risotto?
Arborio rice is a great pick since it releases starch while cooking. Other options include Carnaroli or Vialone Nano.
→ Can this risotto be made in advance?
Risotto is best when served fresh. If reheated, the creamy texture is lost, and the shrimp might turn rubbery.
→ How do I know when the rice is done?
Aim for al dente—firm with a slight bite. Check by tasting near the end of cooking for the right texture.
→ What can I use instead of shrimp?
Scallops or chicken are great substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time to match the protein you choose.
→ Does the coconut milk make the dish too sweet?
Not at all, it adds a subtle sweetness that pairs nicely with the lime’s tanginess and a bit of spice.

Coconut Shrimp Risotto

A rich and creamy risotto made with coconut milk, marinated shrimp, and bright lime and cilantro notes. A fresh and unique dinner idea.

Prep Time
40 Minutes
Cook Time
25 Minutes
Total Time
65 Minutes
By: Alicia

Category: Seafood

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Fusion

Yield: 4 Servings (4 portions)

Dietary: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 1/2 lime (juice and zest).
02 A handful of fresh cilantro leaves.
03 150g Arborio rice.
04 12 large raw shrimp.
05 1 small shallot.
06 A pinch of cayenne pepper.
07 200ml coconut milk.
08 300ml veggie broth.
09 A dab of butter.
10 Salt and black pepper.

Instructions

Step 01

Season the shrimp with some salt, pepper, cayenne, and lime juice. Let the flavors soak in for 30 minutes in the fridge.

Step 02

In a pan with some oil, cook the shrimp for 2 minutes on each side. Put them aside once done.

Step 03

Sauté the diced shallot in butter until fragrant. Stir in the rice and cook it until it looks a bit translucent for about 2 minutes. Gradually pour in the broth while stirring continuously for 16 minutes.

Step 04

Mix in the coconut milk and stir for 2 minutes. Check if the rice is perfectly cooked. Toss in the shrimp, cilantro, and lime zest. Serve right away!

Notes

  1. This risotto blends Italian cooking techniques with Asian-inspired flavors to create a totally unique and elegant dish.

Tools You'll Need

  • A heavy-bottomed pot.
  • A frying pan.
  • A ladle.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Shellfish.
  • Dairy products (butter).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 380
  • Total Fat: 15 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 45 g
  • Protein: 22 g