Ouzo shrimp (shrimp cooked in ouzo)

Greek cuisine has always been known for its diversity, prevalent use of olive oil, and emphasis on fresh ingredients that give it a distinct flavor. One of the most remarkable dishes that has recently gained immense popularity among food enthusiasts is the Greek Ouzo Shrimp.

The dish, as the name suggests, is made using ouzo, a traditional Greek alcoholic beverage that’s been distilled from anise seeds. This flavorful spirit is potent, with an alcohol content of around 40%, and gives the shrimp a distinct licorice taste that everyone will love. Additionally, the dish is effortless to prepare and can be served as an appetizer or main dish.

The dish is common in several parts of Greece, but it is predominantly popular in some of the islands, including Santorini, Mykonos, Ios, and Rhodes, among others. The richness of the Greek culture and history is reflected in the recipe for Greek Ouzo Shrimp, which has been passed down for generations.

The Ouzo Shrimp recipe comprises of plump, juicy shrimp marinated in a blend of fresh herbs and spices, garlic, and shallots, sautéed in butter and then flambéed with ouzo. The ouzo adds an intensely sweet and fragrant flavor to the shrimp, amplifying its taste to a whole new level.

The dish is relatively simple to make and requires few ingredients, making it ideal for a quick family dinner or preparing for holiday gatherings. The preparation time for the dish is minimal, with just a few minutes of cooking time, making it a go-to for stressed individuals who are looking for something tasty and quick to whip up.

To start, gather all the ingredients in one place, including peeled and deveined shrimp, ouzo, butter, garlic, and shallots. Additionally, select your preferred seasonings, herbs, and spices to add flavor to your shrimp. Some of the common ones include salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, parsley, lemon, and thyme.

Next, heat the butter in a pan over medium heat, add minced garlic and shallots, then sauté until they’re fragrant and golden brown. Add the shrimp to the pan, season to taste, and cook for a few minutes until they turn pink and slightly translucent.

Once the shrimp are cooked through, the fun part begins - adding the ouzo! Remove the pan from the heat, pour the ouzo over the shrimp, and light it with a lighter or match to flambé. Be sure to keep a safe distance and use a long-handled lighter so that you don’t accidentally burn yourself.

As the ouzo continues to flame, stir the shrimp until the flame goes out, and the liquid significantly reduces. Sprinkle chopped parsley, squeeze a fresh lemon over the shrimp, and serve hot. The dish usually tastes best when served alongside fresh crusty bread, rice pilaf or pasta.

In conclusion, Greek Ouzo Shrimp is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that, when served, is sure to impress your guests. Its lively, licorice flavor makes it a standout dish from other seafood fare. Whether you’re looking for an appetizer or main dish, Greek Ouzo Shrimp is a showstopper that deserves a spot among your mealtime repertoire. So, next time you’re looking for a quick and simple dinner recipe, try this Greek-inspired Ouzo Shrimp and transport your taste buds to Greece!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup ouzo
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried red chili flakes
• Salt and pepper
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the ouzo, olive oil, garlic, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss until coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat some olive oil until it shimmers.
4. Add the shrimp and marinade and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and curl up.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy!

• Greek