Curried Chili Shrimp

Preparation

1. Step 1

   On a work surface with the flat side of a knife mash together the shallots, the gingerroot, the garlic, and the jalapeño chili with the salt until mixture forms a coarse paste. In a heavy skillet heat the oil over moderate heat until it is hot but not smoking and in it cook the paste, stirring, for 1 minute. Add the turmeric, the curry powder, and the onion and cook the mixture over moderately low heat, stirring, for 2 minutes. Stir in the coconut milk and 1/2 cup water and simmer the mixture for 4 to 6 minutes, or until the liquid is reduced to about 1/2 cup. Add the shrimp in one layer and cook them, turning them once, for 3 to 4 minutes, or until they are just firm. Serve the shrimp mixture over the rice, tossing the rice with the sauce.

2. To make thick coconut milk:

   Step 2

   With an ice pick or a skewer test the 3 eyes of the coconut to find the weakest one and pierce it to make a hole. Drain the liquid and reserve it for another use. Bake the coconut in a preheated 400°F. oven for 15 minutes, breaking it with a hammer, and with the point of a strong knife lever the flesh carefully out of the shell.

   Step 3

   Chop into small pieces enough of the coconut meat to measure 1 cup, reserving the remainder for another use, and in a blender or food processor blend it with 1/2 cup boiling water for 30 seconds. In a cheesecloth-lined sieve set over a bowl let the mixture drain in 5 minutes and squeeze it in the cheesecloth to extract more coconut milk. Makes about 1/2 cup.