Hello, dear friends of Paulina Cocina! This time we're joined by a seafood recipe we love, and if you haven't heard of it before, get ready because you're going to love it: Garlic Shrimp . A dish so simple yet so flavorful, you'll want to make it often!
dive into the world of shrimp in mojo sauce, delve into its super-flavorful and aromatic sauce, learn about its origins, distinctive characteristics, secrets to preparing it exceptionally, and a recipe for Shrimp in Garlic Mojo that's super easy to make and enjoy in good company.
About Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
Garlic Shrimp is an explosion of flavor that delights lovers of Mexican cuisine.
This recipe, partly inherited from Spanish cuisine , consists of shrimp tossed in a sauce of garlic, chilies, or paprika, along with other ingredients that enhance its freshness. In Mexico, seafood cuisine has played a significant role due to its extensive coastline.
- Shrimp in Garlic Sauce has become an iconic dish in the country's coastal areas , where fresh seafood is plentiful.
The preparation of shrimp bathed in a rich sauce of garlic , seasonings and herbs reflects the influence of culinary traditions and creativity to enhance the natural flavors of local ingredients.
The 5 characteristics that define Garlic Shrimp
- Enveloping aromas: The garlic mojo awakens the senses with its penetrating aroma, impregnating the shrimp with a fragrance that anticipates a good time.
- Intense Flavor: The combination of fresh garlic, chili powder or paprika, and herbs creates a blend of intense flavors that are perfectly absorbed by the shrimp, providing a unique experience.
- Juicy texture: The garlic sauce not only imparts flavor but also a juicy and succulent texture to the shrimp, making each bite a feast for the palate.
- Versatility: Mojo de ajo isn't just limited to shrimp; its versatility makes it a perfect complement to other dishes, from fish to grilled or broiled vegetables.
- Perfect balance: The key to garlic mojo is finding the right balance between the ingredients, creating a sauce that enhances, without overpowering, the natural flavor of the shrimp.
Why do we say “al mojo de ajo”?
The expression “al mojo de ajo” has its roots in Spanish cuisine , where “mojo,” like mojo picón , refers to a sauce or condiment.
Garlic , with its distinctive flavor, becomes the star of this dish, lending an unmistakable touch to the dishes that bear its name. This combination of garlic and salsa has been adopted and adapted by various cultures, including the Mexican one .
- The use of garlic as the main ingredient in the sauce gives the shrimp a distinctive and aromatic flavor. The combination of the freshness of the seafood and the intensity of the garlic creates a sublime experience, one that has gained popularity both in Mexico and around the world.
In short, although the expression “mojo de ajo” has its roots in Spanish gastronomy, just like garlic shrimp , Shrimp in Garlic Sauce has evolved within traditional Mexican cuisine , becoming an emblematic dish that celebrates the flavors of the sea and the richness of that country's cuisine.
Where can you enjoy Garlic Shrimp in Mexico?
Shrimp in mojo sauce is a delicacy enjoyed in various regions of Mexico, but it is in the coastal areas where it is most popular.
Seaside restaurants offer this dish, allowing diners to savor the freshness of the sea in every bite.
- Baja California: Due to its coastal location, cities and towns along the Baja California Peninsula are known for offering excellent seafood dishes , including Camarones al Mojo de Ajo . In places like Ensenada and La Paz, it's common to find restaurants serving this specialty.
- Sinaloa: With its extensive coastline on the Gulf of California, Sinaloa is famous for its seafood-based cuisine. In cities like Mazatlán, shrimp in garlic is a popular choice at local restaurants.
- Veracruz: Located on the Gulf of Mexico coast, Veracruz has a rich culinary tradition that incorporates fresh seafood . In Veracruz City and other coastal destinations, these shrimp in garlic sauce are a delicacy that attracts locals and tourists alike.
- Yucatán and Quintana Roo: In tourist destinations like Cancún and Playa del Carmen, you can find delicious versions of this dish.
- Mexico City: expertly prepared Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
Shrimp in Garlic Sauce with Salad and Other Sides
The salad typically served with the Garlic Shrimp recipe can vary depending on personal preferences and the specific region in Mexico. However, a popular choice is the avocado and tomato salad , but you can also try an avocado and mango salad for a more tropical flavor.
Garlic Shrimp experience is also enhanced with sides designed to complement and balance the flavors. White rice , warm tortillas , and refried beans are popular options, often added to complete the dining experience.
Some tips on how to cook Shrimp in Garlic Sauce
Starting with the freshness of the seafood, which is one of the most important keys to obtaining the best flavor.
- Fresh garlic: Choose fresh garlic instead of processed, as it adds a more vibrant flavor to the dish. Peel and mince the garlic just before starting to prepare it to retain its essential oils.
- Flavor balance: Make sure you properly balance the amounts of garlic, chilies, and other spices according to your personal preferences, so that the flavors don't overpower each other.
- Don't overcook shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Cook for just a few minutes, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Sauté the garlic carefully: When frying the garlic for the sauce, be careful not to burn it. Browning garlic will give the sauce a rich flavor, but burning it can result in a bitter taste.
- Attractive presentation: Serve the Garlic Shrimp in an attractive manner on a decorated plate. Sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro on top for a touch of color and freshness.
- Cooking in small batches: This ensures that all the shrimp have enough room in the pan and cook evenly.
At the end of cooking, squeeze a little lemon over the shrimp. The citrus touch will enhance the flavors and provide a refreshing balance.
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Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Yields: 4 portions
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Ingredients for the Garlic Shrimp recipe
- 500g of fresh shrimp, cleaned and peeled
- 6 cloves of fresh garlic, finely chopped
- 2 dried chilies, deseeded and chopped (can be replaced with paprika for a less spicy option)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemons to serve
- Freshly chopped cilantro for garnish
- Side options: white rice, tortillas, fresh salad or refried beans.
How to make Shrimp in Garlic Sauce step by step
- In a frying pan, heat the butter with the olive oil and lightly sauté the garlic.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they change color, turning pink and opaque.
- Add the chopped chilies or paprika, season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for a few more minutes, being careful not to overcook the shrimp or burn the garlic.
- Serve the Garlic Shrimp hot with lemon wedges for each diner and your choice of sides. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving to enhance the fresh flavor and presentation of the dish.
