Camarao Mozambique

Camarao Mozambique Recipe - Italian and Mozambican Delight

Region / culture: Italy, Mozambique | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Camarao Mozambique is a delicious and flavorful shrimp dish that originates from Mozambique. This dish is known for its rich and aromatic flavors, making it a popular choice for seafood lovers.

History

Camarao Mozambique has its roots in Mozambican cuisine, which is heavily influenced by Portuguese, African, and Indian flavors. The dish typically features shrimp cooked in a fragrant sauce made with onions, garlic, parsley, and a blend of spices.

Ingredients

4 tbsp butter
0.25 cup minced onions
0.5 cup water
3 cloves minced garlic
4 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
1 tsp turmeric or ginger
0.5 tsp saffron threads, soaked in 1 tbsp warm water for 15 minutes
0.5 cup red wine
2 tsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp coarse sea salt
black pepper
0.25 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1 lb (454 g) peeled and cleaned shrimp

How to prepare

Saute the onion in the butter until it is almost browned. Then, reduce the heat slightly and add the garlic, parsley, and turmeric.
Continue sauteing for another 5 minutes, and then add water and saffron water.
Cover the mixture and let it simmer for 5 more minutes.
Stir in the wine and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to cook off some of the alcohol.
Add the shrimp, salt, black pepper to taste, and crushed red peppers.
Cook for about 5 minutes or until the shrimp have just turned pink and are still juicy and tender.
This dish is typically served in small bowls with crusty bread for dipping, or it can be served over rice.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes for a fresh and tangy twist.
Use coconut milk instead of water for a creamy and tropical flavor.
Add diced bell peppers for extra color and crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the onions until they are almost browned to bring out their natural sweetness.

- Adding a splash of red wine adds depth of flavor to the dish.

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

Serving Suggestions

Camarao Mozambique is traditionally served in small bowls with crusty bread for dipping or over rice.

Cooking Techniques

Saute the onions until they are caramelized for added depth of flavor.

- Simmer the sauce to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink to keep them tender and juicy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter option.

- Substitute chicken or tofu for the shrimp for a vegetarian version.

- Use cilantro instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

The sauce for Camarao Mozambique can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat the sauce and add the shrimp when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Camarao Mozambique in colorful bowls garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Camarao Mozambique pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. It also goes well with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Camarao Mozambique can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Camarao Mozambique contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Camarao Mozambique is a low-carb dish, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

The butter used in this recipe adds richness and flavor to the dish. It is important to use butter in moderation to keep the dish from becoming too heavy.

Proteins

Shrimp is a great source of protein, making Camarao Mozambique a protein-rich dish.

Vitamins and minerals

Shrimp is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, selenium, and zinc.

Alergens

This dish contains shellfish (shrimp) and dairy (butter), so it may not be suitable for those with shellfish or dairy allergies.

Summary

Camarao Mozambique is a nutritious dish that is rich in protein and low in carbohydrates. It is a flavorful and satisfying meal option.

Summary

Camarao Mozambique is a delicious and flavorful shrimp dish that is perfect for seafood lovers. With its rich and aromatic sauce, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Camarao Mozambique. It was many years ago, during a visit to a small coastal town in Mozambique. The air was heavy with the salty scent of the ocean, and the sound of waves crashing against the shore was a constant backdrop to our days.

One evening, we were invited to dine at a local restaurant by a kind elderly woman who lived in the town. She had a reputation for being an excellent cook, and I was eager to taste the traditional dishes of Mozambique. As we sat down at the table, she brought out a steaming pot of Camarao Mozambique, a dish made with succulent prawns in a rich and spicy coconut sauce.

The moment I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make this dish. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever tasted before – the sweetness of the prawns, the creaminess of the coconut, and the kick of the spices all melded together in perfect harmony. I begged the kind woman for her recipe, and she graciously agreed to teach me.

Over the course of the next few days, I spent hours in her kitchen, watching her cook and taking careful notes of each step. She showed me how to devein and peel the prawns, how to make the flavorful base of onions, tomatoes, and garlic, and how to simmer everything together in coconut milk until the flavors were perfectly blended.

But the most important lesson she taught me was to cook with love. She explained that the secret ingredient in all great dishes was the care and attention that went into preparing them. She showed me how to taste and adjust the seasoning, how to stir with a gentle hand, and how to serve with a smile.

As I left Mozambique and returned home, I carried with me not just the recipe for Camarao Mozambique, but also the memories of that special time spent in the kitchen with a kind and generous woman. I made the dish for my family, and they were amazed at how delicious it was. From that moment on, Camarao Mozambique became a staple in our household, a dish that always brought us together around the dinner table.

Throughout the years, I have continued to make Camarao Mozambique for special occasions and family gatherings. Each time I prepare it, I think back to that small coastal town in Mozambique and the wonderful woman who shared her recipe with me. I am grateful for the knowledge and skills she passed down to me, and I am proud to carry on the tradition of making this delicious dish.

Now, as I pass on the recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will also experience the joy of cooking with love and sharing delicious meals with your loved ones. May this recipe for Camarao Mozambique bring you as much happiness and satisfaction as it has brought me over the years. Bon appétit!