Cuban Caserola de Camarones Enchilados

Cuban Caserola de Camarones Enchilados Recipe | Authentic Cuban Dish

Region / culture: Cuba | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cuban Caserola de Camarones Enchilados is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines shrimp, tomatoes, and rice in a casserole. This dish is a popular Cuban recipe that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

History

Cuban Caserola de Camarones Enchilados has its roots in traditional Cuban cuisine, which is known for its bold flavors and use of fresh ingredients. This dish is a favorite among Cuban families and is often served at celebrations and gatherings.

Ingredients

2 cups of cooked and peeled shrimp
2 cups of crushed canned tomatoes
1 minced white onion
1 chopped green pepper
1 pressed garlic clove
2 tbsp of butter
salt and pepper to taste
2 cups of cooked white rice

How to prepare

In a saucepan, sauté the onion, garlic, and green pepper in the butter.
Next, add the shrimp, salt, and pepper.
Stir in the canned tomatoes.
Then, add the cooked rice.
Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos for extra heat.
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier option.
Add a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the shrimp until they are just pink and opaque, as overcooking can make them tough.

- Adjust the amount of garlic and pepper to suit your taste preferences.

- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

- Serve the casserole with a side of sliced avocado or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the casserole with a side of sliced avocado, a fresh salad, or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the vegetables until they are soft and fragrant before adding the shrimp.

- Bake the casserole in the oven to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier option.

- Use diced tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it. This dish also reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Cuban Caserola de Camarones Enchilados with a crisp white wine or a cold beer for a refreshing contrast to the spicy flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cuban Caserola de Camarones Enchilados contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

This dish is a good source of carbohydrates, with the white rice providing a substantial amount of energy. Each serving contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The butter used in this recipe adds richness and flavor to the dish. Each serving contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Shrimp is a lean source of protein, making this dish a good option for those looking to increase their protein intake. Each serving contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the tomatoes and peppers. It also contains iron and calcium from the shrimp and rice.

Alergens

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

Summary

Overall, Cuban Caserola de Camarones Enchilados is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Cuban Caserola de Camarones Enchilados is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. With its bold flavors and hearty ingredients, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Cuban Caserola de Camarones Enchilados. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in Havana. My mother had a close friend who was a talented cook, and she often shared her delicious recipes with us.

One day, my mother’s friend invited us over for a special dinner. As we sat down at the table, the tantalizing aroma of spices filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. And then, she brought out the most magnificent dish I had ever seen - a bubbling casserole of succulent shrimp in a rich tomato sauce, sprinkled with fresh herbs and spices.

I watched, wide-eyed, as she explained how she had learned to make this dish from her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe through generations. She spoke with such passion and love for cooking, that I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

After that evening, I begged my mother’s friend to teach me the recipe. She agreed, and over the next few weeks, I spent countless hours in her kitchen, watching and learning as she expertly prepared the dish. I took notes, asked questions, and soaked up every bit of knowledge she had to offer.

Finally, the day came when I was ready to try making the Cuban Caserola de Camarones Enchilados on my own. I gathered all the ingredients, carefully measured out each one, and followed the steps exactly as I had been taught. As the casserole baked in the oven, I could hardly contain my excitement.

When it was finally ready, I took a bite and closed my eyes in pure bliss. The flavors exploded in my mouth, transporting me back to that magical evening in my mother’s friend’s kitchen. I had done it - I had successfully recreated the dish that had captivated me from the moment I saw it.

From that day on, the Cuban Caserola de Camarones Enchilados became a staple in my own cooking repertoire. I made it for special occasions, family gatherings, and whenever I wanted to treat myself to a taste of my childhood.

Over the years, I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition that was started by my mother’s friend so long ago. Each time I make the dish, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to preserve our cultural heritage.

And so, as I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to this moment, I am filled with gratitude for all the wonderful people who have shared their recipes with me over the years. Each dish tells a story, carries a history, and connects us to our roots in a way that is truly magical.

I may have learned how to make the Cuban Caserola de Camarones Enchilados from a dear friend, but in reality, the recipe is so much more than just a list of ingredients and instructions. It is a piece of my past, a link to my heritage, and a testament to the love and passion that goes into every dish I create.

And so, with every bite of this delicious casserole, I am reminded of the incredible journey that brought me to this place - a journey filled with love, laughter, and of course, plenty of mouth-watering meals.