Camarones al ajillo

camarones_al_ajillo

Cuban cuisine is a fusion of different cultures that have shaped the island’s culinary traditions over the centuries. Its signature dishes are known for their bold and flavorful combinations of spices, herbs, and vegetables. If you’re a fan of seafood, Camarones al ajillo, or shrimp in garlic sauce, is a must-try dish on your next visit to Cuba. This savory recipe is simple to prepare, packed with bold flavors, and showcases the freshness of the seafood.

Camarones al ajillo is a classic Cuban dish that is often served as a tapa, or small bite. It is also commonly served as a main course, accompanied by rice and a side of salad or vegetables. The dish features succulent shrimp that are seasoned with garlic, paprika, cumin, and other spices. The shrimp are then cooked in a simmering sauce that is made by sautéing garlic, onions, and bell peppers, and then simmering in white wine and chicken stock. The result is a satisfying dish that bursts with a symphony of bold, savory flavors.

To prepare this dish, you’ll need the freshest shrimp you can find. Start by washing and peeling the shrimp, leaving the tails on for a decorative touch. Then, mix the garlic, paprika, salt, and cumin in a bowl and toss the shrimp in the seasoning mixture until each shrimp is evenly coated. Set the shrimp aside to marinate for a few minutes while you prepare the sauce.

In a separate pan, heat some olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Then, add in the onions and bell peppers and cook until the vegetables become soft and tender. Next, pour in the white wine and chicken stock and simmer for a few minutes until the sauce has thickened. Finally, add in the seasoned shrimp to the sauce and cook until the shrimp turn pink and fully cooked.

The fragrance of the garlic and spices combined with the tantalizing aroma of the white wine will have your mouth watering. This dish may be simple to prepare, but it doesn’t lack in flavor. The combination of shrimp and garlic creates a delicious flavor sensation that bursts in your mouth with each bite.

Camarones al ajillo is best served with a side of rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. It pairs well with a light salad or vegetable, making it a healthy and delicious meal. The dish is an excellent choice for a dinner date night, party, or family gathering. The tapa version of the dish can be served as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

In summary, Camarones al ajillo is a classic Cuban dish that combines shrimp with a garlic sauce that is simmered in white wine and chicken stock. It’s rich, bold, and savory, and showcases the freshness of the seafood. It’s an excellent choice for seafood lovers, and it’s easy to cook, making it an ideal meal for a weekend dinner or a casual gathering.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 5 cloves of garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced

Instructions:

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  2. Add olive oil and garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds to a minute until garlic becomes fragrant.

  3. Add shrimp, salt, cumin, paprika, and oregano to the skillet.

  4. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the shrimp turns pink.

  5. Stir in the lime juice, parsley, and jalapeno.

  6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

  7. Serve hot with white rice or bread. Enjoy!