Camarones al ajillo (garlic shrimp)

camarones_al_ajillo_(garlic_shrimp)

Camarones al ajillo, also known as garlic shrimp, is one of the most popular seafood dishes in Colombia. It is a mouth-watering combination of succulent jumbo shrimp and garlic, cooked in a spicy and aromatic sauce that is guaranteed to leave you craving more.

Colombia is known for its diverse seafood cuisine, with its Pacific and Caribbean coastlines providing a wealth of fresh seafood that has made its way into traditional recipes. Camarones al ajillo is one such dish, and it is loved by Colombians and tourists alike. The recipe for this dish has evolved over time, but the basic core ingredients have remained constant, making it an undisputed classic in Colombian cuisine.

The dish is relatively easy to prepare, making it a popular choice for home cooks and aspiring chefs. It requires only a few ingredients, most of which are readily available in supermarkets or local markets. The dish is typically served as a starter or a main course, and can be paired with a variety of sides such as rice, potatoes, or salad.

To prepare the dish, the first step is to clean and devein the shrimp. Then, it is seasoned with salt, pepper, and paprika, giving it a unique and smoky flavor. The shrimp is then sautéed in a pan with butter and garlic until it turns pink and is cooked through. The final step is to add a splash of white wine and parsley, creating a mouth-watering sauce that is the hallmark of the dish.

Camarones al ajillo is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit individual preferences. Some people prefer to add additional spices to the dish to create a more complex flavor profile, while others may choose to omit ingredients such as wine or parsley for a simpler taste. The secret to making this dish perfect every time is to use fresh and high-quality ingredients, and to cook the shrimp to perfection to avoid overcooking or undercooking.

While there are many variations of Camarones al ajillo, the dish remains popular due to its rich and fulfilling taste. The garlic provides a strong and aromatic flavor, while the spices complement the seafood, creating a well-balanced dish that is both indulgent and satisfying. The dish is typically served with some fresh bread or tortillas, which are used to soak up the delicious sauce.

Overall, Camarones al ajillo is a quintessential Colombian dish that is loved by locals and tourists alike. It is a dish that has stood the test of time, and has become a staple in many households. Its simplicity and versatility make it a popular choice for home cooks, and its unique flavor profile has cemented its place in Colombia’s rich seafood cuisine. Whether enjoyed as a starter, main course, or side dish, Camarones al ajillo is a must-try for anyone who wants to experience the full diversity of Colombian food.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 5-6 cloves of garlic, finely minced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup white wine
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

  2. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

  3. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper.

  4. Once the shrimp start to turn pink, add the white wine and lemon juice.

  5. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the shrimp are fully cooked.

  6. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired.

  7. Serve the shrimp hot with crusty bread for sopping up the flavorful sauce. Enjoy your delicious Colombian Camarones al ajillo!