Camarones Al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp) Recipe

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

The ingredients used in Camarones al Ajillo, a traditional Mexican dish, are essential to its rich flavor and aroma. The main ingredients include:

– Camarones or shrimp, typically 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp per serving. It’s recommended to use fresh shrimp for the best taste.

– Ajiillo or garlic, which is a fundamental component of this recipe. Three cloves of minced garlic are usually sufficient to add depth to the dish.

– Olive oil, used as the base for sautéing the garlic and shrimp. The amount may vary depending on personal preference and the number of servings being prepared.

– Salt, used to season the dish, adding a touch of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. It’s essential to use kosher or sea salt, as they have less sodium than regular table salt.

– Black pepper, another crucial seasoning for this recipe. Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for optimal flavor.

– Chopped cilantro, added at the end of cooking as a garnish and to give the dish an authentic touch of Mexican cuisine. A small bunch of fresh cilantro suffices for one serving.

– Butter or manteca (Mexican lard), used in some variations of this recipe to add richness and creaminess. However, it’s optional and may alter the flavor profile.

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

The ingredient that is essential for this recipe is 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined. The shrimp should be fresh and of high quality to ensure that it retains its flavor and texture after cooking.

To select the right type of shrimp, look for those that are firm to the touch and have a pleasant aroma. It’s also essential to check the label for any signs of defects or contamination before making your final purchase.

When shopping for shrimp, you can find them in various forms, including head-on, head-off, shell-on, and shell-off. For Camarones al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp), it’s best to use peeled and deveined shrimp to simplify the cooking process and ensure even cooking.

The nutritional value of shrimp makes it an excellent choice for this recipe. Shrimp is low in fat, high in protein, and rich in various vitamins and minerals, including selenium, vitamin B12, and iron. This nutrient-dense ingredient will contribute significantly to the flavor and texture of your dish.

Before cooking the shrimp, make sure to rinse them under cold water to remove any impurities or debris that may be present on the surface. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture of the dish during cooking.

Key Points about Shrimp:

• Fresh and high-quality shrimp is essential for this recipe.
• Select firm, aromatic shrimp with no signs of defects or contamination.
• Peeled and deveined shrimp is the best choice for Camarones al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp).
• Shrimp is low in fat, high in protein, and rich in various vitamins and minerals.
• Rinse and dry the shrimp before cooking to ensure even cooking and texture.

Tips for Choosing the Best Shrimp:

To get the best results from this recipe, it’s crucial to choose high-quality shrimp. Here are some tips to help you make the right selection:

• Look for firm shrimp with a pleasant aroma.
• Avoid shrimp that have an unpleasant smell or appearance.
• Check the label for any signs of defects or contamination.

Nutritional Benefits of Shrimp:

The nutritional value of shrimp makes it an excellent choice for this recipe. Some of the key nutrients present in shrimp include:

• Selenium: important for antioxidant functions and immune system health.
• Vitamin B12: essential for nerve function, red blood cell production, and DNA synthesis.
• Iron: crucial for transporting oxygen to cells throughout the body.

Cooking with Shrimp:

The cooking process is an essential part of preparing Camarones al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp). To cook the shrimp, you’ll need to follow a series of steps that include marinating, heating, and finishing the dish. The key to successfully cooking shrimp is to ensure even cooking and texture.

Even Cooking and Texture:

To achieve even cooking and texture in your Camarones al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp), make sure to follow these steps:

• Rinse the shrimp under cold water before cooking.
• Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from affecting the texture of the dish during cooking.

4 cloves of garlic, minced

The ingredient at hand for this recipe is four cloves of garlic, minced. In the culinary world, garlic is a fundamental flavor component that adds depth and aroma to various dishes. When used in Camarones al Ajillo or Garlic Shrimp, it plays a crucial role in creating a rich, savory flavor profile.

Garlic, scientifically known as Allium sativum, belongs to the lily family (Liliaceae). It is an herbaceous plant with narrow leaves that grow from a bulbous underground stem. The edible part we use for cooking is the bulb, which consists of several papery sheaths surrounding three to six cloves.

The process of mincing garlic involves finely chopping or crushing it into small pieces using a knife, press, or specialized tool called a microplane grater. Minced garlic has a higher surface area than regular minced herbs and is easily distributed throughout dishes while cooking.

When working with four cloves of garlic, which weigh approximately 0.25-0.35 ounces (7-10 grams), it’s essential to handle them carefully to avoid injury or lingering odors on the skin. As an aromatic ingredient, minced garlic can enhance or overpower other flavors in a recipe, so its precise measurement and cooking time are critical.

The aroma of garlic when sautéed is often associated with warmth, comfort, and rich Mediterranean flavors that evoke emotions and memories of home-cooked meals and family gatherings. As Camarones al Ajillo cooks on the stovetop, the sizzling of minced garlic releases these alluring fragrances into the air, signaling to everyone in the vicinity that a delicious meal is on its way.

1/2 teaspoon salt

The ingredients for Camarones al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp) recipe include:

The main ingredient, shrimp, which should be peeled and deveined.

For this recipe, you will need 1 pound of large shrimp, preferably fresh or frozen.

A garlic paste is also required for this dish, made from 4-5 cloves of minced garlic.

The amount of garlic can be adjusted to taste, but 4-5 cloves provide a good balance between flavor and pungency.

For the sauce, you will need:

1. 1/2 teaspoon salt is used to enhance the flavors in the dish. This small amount of salt can greatly affect the overall taste of the garlic shrimp.
2. 4 tablespoons of olive oil for sautéing the garlic and cooking the shrimp.
3. 2 tablespoons of white wine (optional) adds a hint of acidity and depth to the sauce, but it’s not essential if you don’t have it on hand or prefer not to use alcohol in your cooking.

Aromatics such as:

• Fresh parsley for garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness to the dish. You will need about 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley for this recipe.
• Lemon wedges can be served on the side as an option for added brightness and acidity in the meal.

The cooking liquids used in this recipe include:

1. White wine, as mentioned earlier, is optional but adds a depth of flavor to the sauce. If you choose not to use white wine, substitute it with water or omit altogether.
2. Pantry staples like chicken broth can also be used in place of white wine if needed for added moisture and richness.

A final ingredient to note is the garlic butter topping made by combining melted butter with minced garlic. This adds a rich, savory element to the dish without overpowering the delicate flavor of the shrimp.

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

The recipe for Camarones al Ajillo, a classic Mexican dish featuring succulent garlic shrimp, relies on a few key ingredients to create its signature flavor and aroma. One such essential ingredient is black pepper.

Black pepper plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavors of other ingredients while adding depth and warmth to the overall dish. The addition of just 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper can make a significant difference, as it allows the other flavors to shine without overpowering them.

The reason behind this precise measurement lies in the delicate balance between seasonings required for Camarones al Ajillo. Too little black pepper might result in an underseasoned dish, while too much could overwhelm the dish with an overly pungent flavor.

In the context of cooking garlic shrimp, black pepper serves several purposes. Firstly, it complements the aromatic and savory flavors imparted by sautéed garlic and onions, which are the foundation of this recipe. The subtle spiciness of black pepper also helps to cut through the richness of the dish, making each bite more enjoyable.

Moreover, black pepper’s versatility in pairing with other ingredients means it can be used alongside various herbs and spices common in Mexican cuisine, such as oregano, cumin, or chili powder. This adaptability makes black pepper an indispensable addition to a wide range of dishes beyond Camarones al Ajillo.

When selecting black pepper for the recipe, choose whole peppercorns or pre-ground black pepper depending on your preference. If using whole peppercorns, be sure to grind them just before adding to avoid bitterness and preserve their flavor potential.

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

The ingredients for Camarones al Ajillo, a classic Mexican dish, include:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 2 tablespoons butter or oil

• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice

• Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

The red pepper flakes are an optional ingredient that adds a spicy kick to the dish. They come from dried and crushed red peppers, which have been ground into a fine powder.

The use of red pepper flakes is a common technique in many cuisines, including Mexican and Korean cooking. The heat level can be adjusted by adding more or fewer flakes.

Red pepper flakes are also used as a flavor enhancer and to add depth to dishes, rather than just relying on the heat.

In this recipe, the red pepper flakes are added with other ingredients like garlic and lime juice to create a well-balanced and complex flavor profile.

Pan Ingredients

Cooking Camarones al Ajillo, a classic Mexican dish, requires attention to detail when it comes to ingredients and their preparation.

The recipe starts with a pan ingredient that sets the foundation for the entire dish: garlic. The use of high-quality garlic is crucial as it will be cooked in olive oil and will eventually flavor the shrimp.

The next essential pan ingredient is olive oil, which provides the base for sautéing the aromatics. Extra-virgin olive oil with a mild flavor complements the dish without overpowering it.

White onions are another key ingredient that should be finely chopped to release their natural sweetness when cooked in olive oil.

Cilantro, although often used as a garnish, is added early on to infuse its fresh flavor into the pan. Freshness is essential for cilantro as it quickly loses its potency.

The use of cumin seeds and ground cumin adds warmth and depth to the dish without overpowering the delicate shrimp.

Finally, the most crucial ingredient in Camarones al Ajillo – garlic shrimp – requires succulent large shrimp. Shrimp selection is key as they should be fresh, firm, and free from any added preservatives.

The ratio of ingredients will depend on personal taste, but a good starting point would be to use three to four cloves of garlic per half pound of shrimp. Adjust the amount according to preference, keeping in mind that garlic can overpower the dish if overused.

2 tablespoons olive oil

Olive oil is one of the primary ingredients used in the preparation of Camarones al Ajillo, a traditional Mexican dish that features garlic shrimp as its main ingredient.

The specified amount for olive oil in this recipe is 2 tablespoons, which may seem like a relatively small quantity but serves as an essential base for sautéing and cooking other ingredients later on.

When selecting the right type of olive oil for your Camarones al Ajillo dish, it’s generally recommended to choose a high-quality extra virgin olive oil. This type of oil boasts a richer flavor profile compared to regular or light olive oils, which can be beneficial in highlighting the savory flavors of garlic and other ingredients used in this recipe.

Some additional characteristics that make extra virgin olive oil a good choice for cooking include its distinct aroma, slightly peppery taste, and relatively low smoke point. While it may seem counterintuitive to use an oil with a lower smoke point when subjected to heat, the nuances of flavor imparted by this type of oil during cooking can be highly beneficial in rounding out the overall character of your dish.

It’s worth noting that using olive oil as the primary base for sautéing and cooking is somewhat unconventional compared to more common options like vegetable or peanut oil. However, the distinct flavor profile and aroma associated with high-quality olive oil make it a great choice when working with delicate ingredients like garlic and shrimp.

In this specific recipe, the 2 tablespoons of olive oil will serve as a foundation for cooking both the garlic and shrimp before adding other seasonings and spices to create the signature Camarones al Ajillo flavor. As you prepare your dish, be sure to keep in mind that the quality and type of olive oil used can have a significant impact on the overall character of the final product.

2 tablespoons butter

The first ingredient required for this recipe is 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, which should be softened to room temperature. It’s worth noting that using high-quality butter will enhance the flavor and aroma of the dish.

The use of two tablespoons may seem like a small amount, but it’s essential in creating a rich and creamy sauce to complement the shrimp. This quantity will also help to prevent the garlic from burning during the cooking process.

When selecting a butter for this recipe, consider choosing one with a high fat content, as this will contribute to the overall richness of the dish. European-style butters or cultured butters are good options if available.

Softening the butter ahead of time ensures that it will melt smoothly and evenly into the garlic mixture, creating a velvety texture without any lumps or bumps. This attention to detail makes all the difference in achieving the desired consistency for Camarones al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp).

Cooking Method

Searing the Shrimp

Cooking method for searing the shrimp in Camarones al Ajillo, also known as Garlic Shrimp, involves a quick and precise technique to achieve a flavorful and well-cooked final product.

The key to successful seared garlic shrimp is to cook them just until they’re pink and cooked through. This helps preserve their tender texture and delicate flavor.

Here’s the step-by-step process for searing the shrimp:

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat them dry with paper towels, and season them lightly with salt.

2. Heat a skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat until it reaches a hot temperature, almost smoking.

3. Add 2-3 tablespoons of oil to the preheated pan, such as vegetable or canola oil, which has a high smoke point and won’t break down when heated to high temperatures.

4. Once the oil is hot, add 1-2 cloves of minced garlic to the pan and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant and lightly golden brown. This step infuses the oil with a deep, nutty flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.

5. Add the seasoned shrimp to the pan in a single layer, leaving some space between each one to allow for even cooking.

6. Sear the shrimp for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they’re pink and just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them, as this can make them tough and rubbery.

7. Remove the seared garlic shrimp from the pan with a slotted spoon and set them aside on a plate, leaving any excess oil behind.

The next steps in the Camarones al Ajillo recipe involve cooking aromatics like onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes to create a flavorful sauce, which is then combined with the seared garlic shrimp for a delicious and well-rounded dish.

Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over mediumhigh heat.

To prepare this dish, it’s essential to start by cooking the shrimp in a manner that brings out their natural flavors and textures. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

The high heat will allow the butter to melt rapidly, creating a rich, golden brown color that enhances the flavor profile of the dish. It’s crucial not to burn the butter or let it smoke, as this can create an unpleasant odor and ruin the taste of the shrimp.

While waiting for the butter to melt, prepare your shrimp by rinsing them under cold water, patting them dry with a paper towel, and seasoning them with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. This step ensures that the shrimp are evenly seasoned and ready to absorb all the flavors from the cooking process.

Once the butter has melted and is starting to foam slightly, add your garlic cloves to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side, until it’s lightly golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn or become too dark, as this can impart a bitter taste to the dish.

Now it’s time to add your shrimp to the skillet. Arrange them in a single layer, making sure they have enough room to cook evenly. If necessary, you may need to cook the shrimp in batches depending on the size of your skillet and the number of shrimp you’re using.

Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. You can check if the shrimp is cooked by inserting a fork into one of them; if it slides in easily, the shrimp is ready.

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 23 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.

To achieve perfect Camarones al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp), a fundamental understanding of cooking method is essential.

The process begins with selecting high-quality ingredients, including succulent shrimp and aromatic garlic cloves.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the oil to prevent sticking. This initial step sets the stage for even cooking.

Next, the aromatics – minced garlic and onion – are sautéed in the oil until fragrant, releasing their flavor compounds into the air.

After a few minutes of stirring occasionally, it’s time to add the shrimp to the skillet. This crucial step requires attention to detail, as overcrowding can compromise even cooking.

Cooking for 23 minutes per side may seem excessive, but this is where patience and understanding of cooking method come into play.

As the shrimp cook, they undergo a transformation from translucent to pink, accompanied by a tender texture. This process, known as denaturation, occurs when protein bonds break down due to heat.

The combination of precise temperature control and gentle stirring ensures that each piece of shrimp is cooked uniformly throughout, resulting in a dish that is both visually appealing and flavorful.

Finishing Touches

Making the Garlic Sauce

The final steps in preparing Camarones al Ajillo, a classic Mexican dish featuring garlic shrimp, involve adding the finishing touches to the dish and making the signature garlic sauce.

To begin with, the garlic shrimp is typically cooked until it reaches a lovely pink color and is coated in a flavorful mixture of butter, oil, and spices. Once cooked, the shrimp can be seasoned with a squeeze of lime juice, salt, and pepper for added depth and brightness to the dish.

Simultaneously, the garlic sauce is prepared by combining sautéed garlic, onions, chilies, and oregano in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce. The heat from the pan can be adjusted according to personal preference, but typically it should be kept at a simmer.

To make the garlic sauce, the following steps are followed:

1. Sautéed Garlic:

• Begin by peeling and mincing 4-6 cloves of garlic depending on desired intensity.

• In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 4-5 minutes or until it is lightly golden brown and fragrant.

2. Onions and Chilies:

• Once the garlic has cooked, add 1 small onion that has been finely chopped to the same pan. Cook for another 3-4 minutes or until it is translucent and slightly caramelized.

• Add 1-2 dried chilies (or 1 fresh chili) to the pan, depending on desired level of heat. If using dried chilies, soak them in water for a few hours before rehydrating, then chop finely. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they are fragrant.

3. Tomato and Spices:

• Add 1 (14 oz) can of crushed tomatoes to the pan along with 1 teaspoon dried oregano, salt and pepper, to taste. Stir well to combine.

4. Simmering:

• Allow the sauce to simmer over low heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it has thickened slightly and reduced by a quarter of its original volume, stirring occasionally.

Once the garlic sauce is ready, it can be served alongside the cooked Camarones al Ajillo for added flavor and moisture. The combination of the succulent shrimp and rich, creamy garlic sauce makes this dish truly unforgettable.

Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in a small saucepan over low heat.

To add the final finishing touches to your Camarones al Ajillo, it’s essential to melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in a small saucepan over low heat.

This step may seem simple, but it plays a crucial role in bringing all the flavors together and creating a rich, savory sauce that complements the garlic shrimp perfectly.

Here are some key considerations for melting the butter:

• Use low heat to prevent the butter from burning or turning brown. This will give you a clear, golden color and a smooth texture that won’t overpower the dish.

• Stir occasionally to ensure even melting. You can use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula for this purpose.

Once the butter has melted completely, you can add it to the garlic shrimp sauce along with any other desired ingredients such as lemon juice, parsley, or chili flakes.

The resulting sauce should be creamy and slightly tangy, coating each piece of shrimp evenly. This is a key aspect of Camarones al Ajillo, so don’t skimp on the butter – it’s worth the extra effort!

Remember to serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley or lemon wedges if desired.

Add the minced garlic to the saucepan and cook for 12 minutes, until fragrant.

The finishing touches are crucial to creating a delicious and aromatic dish like Camarones al Ajillo, also known as Garlic Shrimp.

To add the final layer of flavor, you will need to prepare the saucepan with the minced garlic.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

• Add the minced garlic to the saucepan and place it over medium heat. Let it cook for about 12 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and golden brown in color.

It’s essential to stir the garlic occasionally during this time to prevent it from burning and developing a bitter taste.

As the garlic cooks, it will start to release its oils and develop a rich, nutty aroma. This is where the magic happens, and your dish starts to come alive with flavor!

Once the garlic has reached the perfect fragrant state, remove the saucepan from the heat and proceed with combining it with the remaining ingredients in your Camarones al Ajillo recipe.

The finishing touches on this dish are a delicate balance of flavors, so be sure to taste and adjust as needed. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro to give it an extra boost of freshness!

Stir in the salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

To complete the Camarones al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp) dish, you need to add some finishing touches that will elevate its flavors and textures.

The recipe calls for stirring in salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). This step is crucial as it enhances the overall taste of the dish. The salt brings out the natural sweetness of the shrimp, while the black pepper adds a subtle depth to the flavor.

If you’re using red pepper flakes, they will add a nice kick of heat to the dish. Be cautious not to overdo it with the red pepper flakes as the heat level can quickly become overpowering.

Stirring in these seasonings at this stage allows them to meld with the garlic and lemon juices, resulting in a balanced and harmonious flavor profile.

The key is to stir in just enough salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to enhance the flavors without overpowering them. A light hand is essential when adding seasonings to prevent over-seasoning the dish.

Serve the garlic sauce over the cooked shrimp.

The final step in preparing the Camarones al Ajillo dish is to serve the garlic sauce over the cooked shrimp. This is a crucial part of the recipe as it allows the flavors of the garlic and chili peppers to meld with the succulent shrimp.

To serve the garlic sauce, first ensure that the shrimp are cooked through and have reached an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C).

Next, place the cooked shrimp on a serving platter or individual plates. You can arrange them in a pattern or simply serve them as is.

Spoon the garlic sauce over the top of the shrimp, making sure each piece gets a generous helping. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color and freshness.

The key here is to balance the flavors so that the rich taste of the garlic does not overpower the delicate flavor of the shrimp. A good rule of thumb is to aim for about 1-2 tablespoons of garlic sauce per serving, depending on your personal preference.

Additionally, consider adding a sprinkle of grated cheese, such as Parmesan or Queso Fresco, to add an extra layer of depth and richness to the dish. This will also help balance out the bold flavors of the garlic and chili peppers.

Serve the Camarones al Ajillo immediately after it has been prepared, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro and accompanied by warm tortillas, steamed vegetables, or Mexican rice.

Optional Serving Suggestions:

• Rice: Serve the garlic shrimp over Mexican-style rice, which has been flavored with sautéed onions, garlic, and tomatoes.

• Tortillas: Wrap individual servings of garlic shrimp in warm tortillas and serve as a taco or burrito.

• Vegetables: Serve the garlic shrimp alongside steamed vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers.

• Beverages: Pair the Camarones al Ajillo with a glass of cold beer, margaritas, or other refreshing beverages to complement its bold flavors.