Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey that will transform your dinner table into a gourmet Mexican restaurant! This Shrimp in Tamarind Sauce recipe is not just a meal, it's a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds and impress even the most discerning food critics. With a perfect balance of tangy tamarind, succulent shrimp, and aromatic spices, this dish promises to be your new go-to recipe that will have everyone begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp tamarind paste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp by thoroughly rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage.
- In a small bowl, whisk the tamarind paste with 1/4 cup of warm water to create a smooth, liquid sauce. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Carefully add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet, spreading them in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and start to curl.
- Pour the prepared tamarind sauce over the shrimp, stirring gently to coat each piece evenly. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and transfer the shrimp to a serving platter. Garnish generously with freshly chopped cilantro.
- Serve hot, preferably with steamed rice or warm tortillas to complement the tangy tamarind sauce.
Tips
- Always use fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best taste and texture. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a clean, ocean-like smell.
- When cooking shrimp, timing is crucial. Overcooking can make them tough and rubbery, so watch them closely and remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and curl.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting your tamarind paste slightly before mixing with water to enhance its depth and complexity.
- If you can't find fresh tamarind paste, you can substitute with tamarind concentrate or even tamarind chutney, adjusting the quantity to maintain the right balance of tanginess.
- For a more authentic presentation, serve the shrimp in a cast-iron skillet or a traditional ceramic dish to keep it warm and add a rustic touch to your dining experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 212kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 120mg
