Cliobra

Shrimp Pineapple and Sweet Potato Curry – A Thai-inspired High Protein Weight Loss Recipe

Last Updated on November 8, 2024 by Arif Chowdhury

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the warm, inviting embrace of a hearty curry. Today, we’re diving into a delightful recipe that marries the sweetness of pineapple, the earthiness of sweet potatoes, and the succulent flavor of shrimp.

This Shrimp Pineapple and Sweet Potato Curry is not just a feast for the senses; it’s also a fantastic weight loss recipe that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

A Taste of Thailand

Thai cuisine is renowned for its balance of flavors, combining sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements in a harmonious way.

This shrimp curry embodies those principles beautifully. The tropical sweetness of pineapple complements the creamy, rich coconut milk, while the shrimp provides a lean protein source.

According to the National Institutes of Health, incorporating seafood into your diet can help with weight management, as it’s generally lower in calories and high in protein.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

  1. Shrimp: Shrimp is not only delicious but also low in calories. A 3-ounce serving contains about 84 calories, making it an excellent choice for weight loss. It’s also packed with protein, which helps you feel full longer.
  2. Sweet Potatoes: These vibrant tubers are loaded with vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. Eating fiber-rich foods can increase feelings of fullness and reduce overall calorie intake. Studies show that diets high in fiber can help with weight management.
  3. Pineapple: Pineapple is a fantastic source of vitamin C and bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion. Its natural sweetness reduces the need for added sugars, making it a healthier option for desserts and savory dishes alike.
  4. Coconut Milk: While coconut milk does contain fat, it’s primarily medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are metabolized differently than other fats. MCTs can help promote weight loss by increasing energy expenditure.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we jump into the cooking process, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients for our Shrimp Pineapple and Sweet Potato Curry.

This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also adaptable, allowing you to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.

For the Curry:

  • 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon red curry paste (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
  • 1 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
  • Lime wedges for serving
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

Now that we have everything ready, let’s get cooking! This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

  • Heat the Oil: In a large pot or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the Aromatics: Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

  • Add Sweet Potatoes: Stir in the diced sweet potatoes and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps to soften them slightly.

Step 3: Build the Curry Base

  • Mix in Curry Paste: Add the red curry paste and stir well to coat the sweet potatoes. Cooking the paste for a minute releases its flavors.
  • Add Liquids: Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Simmer

  • Cook Until Tender: Reduce the heat to low and let the curry simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Add Shrimp and Pineapple

  • Incorporate Shrimp and Pineapple: Add the shrimp and pineapple chunks to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
  • Season: Stir in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the flavors as needed, adding more curry paste for heat or more soy sauce for saltiness.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  • Garnish: Once everything is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Serve the curry hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side.
  • Pair It Up: This curry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa, adding extra texture and nutrition to your meal.

Nutritional Information

This Shrimp Pineapple and Sweet Potato Curry not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a range of nutritional benefits. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving (assuming 4 servings):

  • Calories: Approximately 350
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Fat: 15g

Enjoying Mindfully

When it comes to enjoying meals like this curry, mindfulness is key. Take the time to savor each bite and notice the blend of flavors and textures.

Eating slowly can help you feel full more quickly, which is beneficial for weight management.

Conclusion: A Delicious Journey

There you have it! A vibrant, flavorful Shrimp Pineapple and Sweet Potato Curry that’s not only easy to make but also supports your weight loss goals.

The combination of shrimp, sweet potatoes, and pineapple isn’t just delicious; it’s a celebration of flavors that transport you straight to a Thai kitchen.

So gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and enjoy a delightful meal that nourishes both body and soul.