Camarão de Coco

Camarão de Coco Recipe | Mozambique Shrimp Recipe

Region / culture: Mozambique | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Camarão de Coco, also known as Coconut Shrimp, is a delicious and flavorful Brazilian dish that combines the sweetness of coconut milk with the savory flavors of shrimp and spices. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers looking to try something new and exotic.

History

Camarão de Coco has its origins in the coastal regions of Brazil, where seafood is abundant and coconut trees grow in abundance. The combination of shrimp and coconut milk is a classic pairing in Brazilian cuisine, creating a rich and creamy sauce that perfectly complements the tender shrimp.

Ingredients

2 – 3 lb (1.36 kg) of shrimp
0.25 cup of butter or a butter/oil mixture
3 – 4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 – 3 sprigs of parsley, finely chopped
2 chile peppers, crushed, or 1 tsp of cayenne pepper
1 tsp of salt
2 tsp of cumin
1 large tomato, chopped
2 – 3 cups of coconut milk

How to prepare

If necessary, clean and shell the shrimp.
In a heavy skillet, heat butter over moderate heat and cook the shrimp until they turn a rich golden pink.
Using a slotted spoon, remove the shrimp from the pan.
In the same butter, sauté the garlic, onion, parsley, and chilies for 2 – 3 minutes.
Add the salt, cumin, and tomatoes to the pan and cook until the mixture slightly thickens, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Reduce the heat to low, return the shrimp to the pan, and pour in the coconut milk.
Stir until the shrimp is heated through.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or carrots for added color and flavor.
Use coconut cream instead of coconut milk for a richer sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.

- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.

- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

- Serve Camarão de Coco with rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Camarão de Coco over a bed of rice or with crusty bread for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the shrimp until they are just cooked through to prevent them from becoming tough.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or tofu in place of shrimp for a vegetarian option.

Make Ahead Tips

Camarão de Coco can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Camarão de Coco with a crisp white wine or a tropical fruit cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

320 per serving

Carbohydrates

12g per serving

Fats

20g per serving

Proteins

25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Camarão de Coco is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B12, and iron.

Alergens

Contains shellfish and coconut milk.

Summary

Camarão de Coco is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and delicious meal option.

Summary

Camarão de Coco is a delicious and exotic Brazilian dish that combines the flavors of shrimp, coconut milk, and spices to create a rich and creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers looking to try something new and flavorful.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly remember the moment I discovered this recipe for Camarão de Coco. It was during a trip to Brazil, many years ago, when I stumbled upon a small, hidden restaurant in Rio de Janeiro. The aroma of spices and coconut wafted through the air, drawing me in like a moth to a flame.

As I sat down at a table in the cozy restaurant, the chef, a friendly woman with a warm smile, came out to greet me. She explained that Camarão de Coco was a traditional Brazilian dish made with prawns and coconut milk, and that she was happy to share her recipe with me.

I watched intently as she prepared the dish, taking note of each ingredient and technique she used. The prawns were sautéed in a fragrant blend of garlic, onions, and peppers, before being simmered in a rich coconut milk sauce. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I knew I had to learn how to recreate this dish at home.

After finishing my meal, I thanked the chef profusely and asked if she would be willing to write down the recipe for me. She happily obliged, jotting down the ingredients and instructions on a scrap of paper. I tucked the recipe safely into my purse, knowing that I had stumbled upon a culinary treasure that would bring joy to my family for years to come.

Back home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients I needed to make Camarão de Coco. I followed the recipe to a tee, savoring each step as I recreated the dish that had captured my heart in Brazil. The first bite brought back memories of that cozy restaurant in Rio, and I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have shared the recipe for Camarão de Coco with friends and family, each time receiving rave reviews and requests for seconds. I have made slight tweaks and adjustments to the recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. But no matter how many times I make this dish, it always brings me back to that moment in Brazil when I discovered the magic of Camarão de Coco.

As I look back on my culinary journey, I am grateful for the experiences and people who have inspired me along the way. From that friendly chef in Rio to the friends and family who have enjoyed my cooking, each encounter has shaped me into the cook I am today. And as I pass down the recipe for Camarão de Coco to future generations, I know that a piece of my heart will always be present in every bite.

So, if you ever find yourself craving a taste of Brazil, look no further than my recipe for Camarão de Coco. Let the flavors of coconut and prawns transport you to a sunny beach in Rio, where the air is filled with the scent of spices and the promise of a delicious meal. And remember, the best recipes are not just a list of ingredients and instructions – they are a journey that brings us closer to the ones we love. Bon appétit!