Coconut-Steamed Shrimp – A Fragrant and Juicy Vietnamese Delight

With the simple recipe below, you can make a flavorful shrimp dish that’s juicy, aromatic, and completely free of any fishy smell. Steamed shrimp is a beloved traditional dish in Vietnam, appreciated for its freshness and light flavor. Steaming is one of the simplest yet most effective cooking methods — it helps preserve the shrimp’s natural sweetness and firm texture without the need for much seasoning.

To make your shrimp turn a beautiful golden-red color while enhancing its flavor, try using fresh coconut water. This natural ingredient not only adds a mild sweetness but also infuses the shrimp with a tropical aroma that makes the dish irresistible.

🦐 Ingredients for Coconut-Steamed Shrimp

• 500g (about 1 lb) fresh shrimp or tiger prawns

• 1 fresh coconut (for its water)

• 1 small piece of ginger

• 2 stalks of lemongrass

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 1 teaspoon white wine or cooking wine

• A small amount of filtered water (if needed)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse the shrimp thoroughly under running water. Trim off the long antennae and legs with kitchen scissors. Drain the shrimp in a colander or gently pat them dry with paper towels.
👉 Tip: Using fresh shrimp with firm shells and clear eyes will give the best result. Avoid shrimp that smell overly fishy or have soft shells.

Step 2: Make the Steaming Broth

Crack open the coconut and pour the coconut water into a pot. If fresh coconuts are not available, you can use bottled coconut water as an alternative.
Peel and lightly crush the ginger. Cut the lemongrass into sections and bruise them to release the aroma.
Add the coconut water, ginger, lemongrass, salt, sugar, and white wine to your steamer pot. Stir gently to help the flavors blend.

Step 3: Steam the Shrimp

Arrange the shrimp evenly in the steamer basket, making sure they are not stacked too tightly so that the steam can circulate.
Cover the lid, bring the water to a boil over high heat, and steam for about 5–7 minutes, depending on the size of the shrimp.
⚠️ Note: Do not oversteam — shrimp cook quickly. When overcooked, they can become tough and dry.

You’ll know the shrimp are ready when their shells turn a bright reddish-orange and their flesh becomes firm and opaque.

Step 4: Presentation

Once cooked, turn off the heat and transfer the shrimp to a serving plate. Garnish with a few slices of ginger and lemongrass for added fragrance and a touch of elegance.
Serve the dish hot with a Vietnamese dipping sauce made from fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, minced garlic, and chili.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Dish

Your coconut-steamed shrimp should have a beautiful, glossy red color with juicy, tender meat. The aroma of coconut water, ginger, and lemongrass creates a perfectly balanced harmony of sweet and savory notes.

This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious and light, making it ideal for family dinners, festive meals, or even small gatherings. Pair it with steamed rice and a side of fresh herbs for a truly Vietnamese experience.

🌿 Final Thoughts

Steaming shrimp with coconut water is a simple yet creative cooking method that brings out the natural sweetness of the seafood while keeping it moist and tender. The result is a dish that’s visually appealing, full of flavor, and delightfully fragrant.

If you’re looking for a wholesome, easy-to-make seafood dish that everyone will love — this coconut-steamed shrimp recipe is the perfect choice. Try it once, and it might just become your new favorite way to enjoy shrimp!