Coctel de camarones al pique

Puerto Rican Coctel de Camarones al Pique Recipe with White Wine, Garlic, Parsley, and Oregano

Region / culture: Puerto Rico | Preparation time: 4 hours (marination) | Cooking time: 8 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Coctel de camarones al pique is a delicious and spicy shrimp cocktail that originates from Mexico. This dish is perfect for seafood lovers who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.

History

Coctel de camarones al pique has been a popular dish in Mexico for many years. It is often served as an appetizer or light meal, especially during the hot summer months when a refreshing seafood dish is just what you need.

Ingredients

50-60 medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined. They are always at their best when fresh. If frozen, thaw quickly under running tap water. If canned, drain. In all cases, rinse in tap water and set on a paper towel to drain excess moisture.
0.5 cup of white wine
0.5 tsp of ground garlic
1 tsp of parsley flakes
0.33 tsp of ground oregano
0.33 tsp of ground Italian red pepper

How to prepare

Blend all the ingredients together. If possible, use the same dish for cooking and serving to maintain the light gravy.
If you have time, marinate the shrimp in the mixture for about four hours, covered, in the refrigerator. Marination enhances the flavor of this dish.
Microwave on HIGH for about 4 minutes or cook on the stovetop over medium to medium-high heat for about eight minutes. Stir at least once during the cooking process. The shrimp are done when they turn paper white and their skins are no longer translucent.
Microwave on HIGH for about 4 minutes or cook on the stovetop over medium to medium-high heat for about eight minutes. Stir at least once during the cooking process. The shrimp are done when they turn paper white and their skins are no longer translucent.

Variations

Add diced avocado or cucumber for extra freshness.
Use different spices or hot sauces to adjust the level of heat in the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain excess moisture from the shrimp before cooking to prevent the dish from becoming watery.

- Marinating the shrimp in the mixture for a few hours will enhance the flavor of the dish.

- Stir the shrimp at least once during the cooking process to ensure even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Coctel de camarones al pique with saltine crackers or tortilla chips for a delicious appetizer or light meal.

Cooking Techniques

This dish can be cooked either in the microwave or on the stovetop. Both methods will result in delicious shrimp cocktail.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the white wine with chicken or vegetable broth if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the shrimp in the mixture ahead of time and cook them just before serving for a quick and easy meal.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Coctel de camarones al pique in a glass or bowl with a slice of lime on the rim for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a cold beer or a refreshing margarita.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Coctel de camarones al pique contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Coctel de camarones al pique is a low-carb dish, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet.

Fats

This dish is relatively low in fat, especially if you use lean shrimp and limit the amount of oil used in cooking.

Proteins

Shrimp is a great source of protein, making this dish a good option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

Shrimp is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, selenium, and zinc.

Alergens

This dish contains shellfish (shrimp), which may be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Coctel de camarones al pique is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is relatively low in carbs and fats, making it a healthy option for seafood lovers.

Summary

Coctel de camarones al pique is a delicious and spicy shrimp cocktail that is perfect for seafood lovers. With its low carb and fat content, it is a healthy and flavorful option for a light meal or appetizer.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I discovered this recipe is a cherished memory. I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little kitchen in the heart of Mexico City. Maria was known for her exquisite culinary skills, and I was always eager to learn new recipes from her. That day, she had promised to teach me how to make her famous Coctel de camarones al pique.

As we gathered the ingredients and prepared our workspace, Maria regaled me with stories of how she learned to make this delicious dish from her own grandmother. She spoke of warm summer days spent in the kitchen, the sound of laughter filling the air as they cooked together. I could see the twinkle in her eyes as she reminisced about those precious moments, and I couldn't wait to create my own memories with this recipe.

The first step was to cook the shrimp until they were perfectly tender and juicy. Maria showed me how to season them with a blend of spices that she had carefully selected - a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, a hint of garlic for depth of flavor, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the dish. The aromas wafting through the kitchen were intoxicating, and I knew we were off to a great start.

Next, we prepared the pique sauce, a vibrant mixture of tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños. Maria explained that the key to a good pique sauce was to let the flavors meld together slowly, allowing the ingredients to marry and create a symphony of tastes. As she stirred the pot, I could see the care and attention she put into each movement, and I knew that this recipe was truly a labor of love.

Once the shrimp were cooked and the pique sauce was ready, it was time to assemble the dish. Maria showed me how to layer the shrimp in a glass bowl, alternating between layers of shrimp and pique sauce. She explained that the dish needed time to chill in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld together even further. I watched as she meticulously arranged each shrimp, her hands moving with precision and grace.

Finally, after the dish had chilled for several hours, it was time to serve. Maria scooped the Coctel de camarones al pique into individual bowls, garnishing each one with a sprig of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. The colors were vibrant, the aromas were enticing, and I couldn't wait to taste the dish that had brought us together in that moment.

As I took my first bite, I was transported to a place of joy and warmth. The flavors danced on my palate, each bite a burst of spicy, tangy, and savory goodness. I looked over at Maria, her eyes twinkling with pride, and I knew that this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart.

From that day on, Coctel de camarones al pique became a staple in my own kitchen. I would often make it for family gatherings, special occasions, or simply when I wanted to reminisce about that magical day with Maria. The recipe had become a part of my culinary repertoire, a testament to the bond we shared and the memories we created together.

And so, as I sit here in my own kitchen, preparing this dish once again, I am filled with gratitude for the moments that brought me here. The memories of that day with Maria will always be cherished, and I am forever thankful for the recipe that brought us together. As I take a bite of the Coctel de camarones al pique, I am reminded of the love and friendship that inspired its creation, and I know that this dish will always hold a special place in my heart.