Shrimp Mozambique is a vibrant and flavorful dish rooted in Portuguese cuisine, with influences from Mozambique, a former Portuguese colony. This dish features succulent shrimp simmered in a zesty sauce infused with garlic, spices, and beer, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that’s both hearty and satisfying. Traditionally served over rice or accompanied by crusty bread, Shrimp Mozambique is a delightful meal that’s both easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
- 1½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup beer (preferably a light lager)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 bay leaves
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For Serving:
- Cooked white rice or crusty bread
Instructions:
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- In a large bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and half of the minced garlic. Toss to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let the shrimp marinate in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add the remaining minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
- Incorporate Spices:
- Stir in the paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Cook the mixture for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to release their aromas and blend with the onions and garlic.
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the marinated shrimp to the skillet. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and are opaque throughout, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, pour in the beer and chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Add the bay leaves to the liquid and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes, reducing the sauce slightly and concentrating its flavors.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce:
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring them into the sauce to ensure they are well-coated. Let the shrimp simmer in the sauce for an additional 2 minutes to heat through and absorb the flavors.
- Finalize and Serve:
- Remove the bay leaves from the skillet and discard them.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro and parsley over the shrimp, stirring gently to incorporate the herbs.
- Serve the Shrimp Mozambique hot over a bed of cooked white rice or with slices of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Additional Tips:
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. Conversely, for extra heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some crushed red pepper flakes.
- Alternative Liquids: While beer adds a distinct depth of flavor, you can substitute it with white wine or additional chicken broth if you prefer an alcohol-free version.
- Side Dishes: In addition to rice or bread, Shrimp Mozambique pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad, providing a balanced and complete meal.
This Shrimp Mozambique recipe offers a delightful combination of bold flavors and comforting textures, making it a standout dish for both casual dinners and special occasions. Enjoy the rich culinary heritage it brings to your table!
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