Shrimp Diablo

Spicy Shrimp Diablo Recipe from Mexico with Garlic and Paprika

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Shrimp Diablo is a spicy and flavorful dish that is perfect for seafood lovers who enjoy a bit of heat. This dish features large shrimp coated in a spicy garlic paste and grilled to perfection. It is a simple yet delicious recipe that is sure to impress your guests.

History

Shrimp Diablo is a popular dish that originated in Mexican cuisine. The name "Diablo" translates to "devil" in Spanish, which refers to the spicy nature of the dish. This recipe has been adapted and modified over the years to suit different tastes and preferences.

Ingredients

1 – 1.5 lb (680 g) large raw shrimp, pre-shelled and de-veined (20–30/pound)
2 garlic cloves
2 tbsp good olive oil
0.5 tbsp coarse salt
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cayenne pepper (or more or less to taste)
2 tbsp lemon juice

How to prepare

Clean and devein the shrimp if needed. It is fine to do this a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge.
Mince the garlic.
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, salt, paprika, and cayenne.
Gradually add oil and lemon juice to the mixture, until you have a runny paste that is suitable for brushing on the shrimp. You may not need to use all of the oil and lemon juice. You can make this paste ahead of time and store it on the counter.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Place the shrimp on the preheated grill and coat them with the paste. Be quick to avoid overcooking. Turn the shrimp after 2 minutes and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until they are nice and pink. Be careful not to overcook them.
If you have a pan with holes in it, such as a vegetable grilling pan, it will make this step much easier. Just stir the shrimp well and cook until they are done.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers to the garlic paste for added flavor and texture.
Use different spices such as smoked paprika or chili powder for a unique twist on the recipe.
Substitute the shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to clean and devein the shrimp properly before cooking to ensure a clean and delicious final dish.

- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference. You can add more or less depending on how spicy you like your food.

- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.

- Use a vegetable grilling pan or skewers to make it easier to cook the shrimp on the grill without losing any pieces.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Shrimp Diablo with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the best cooking technique for Shrimp Diablo, as it adds a smoky flavor to the dish. You can also broil or sauté the shrimp if you don't have access to a grill.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have large shrimp, you can use smaller shrimp or prawns for this recipe. You can also use chicken or tofu as a protein alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the garlic paste ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to use. You can also clean and devein the shrimp a few hours in advance to save time.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Shrimp Diablo on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. You can also garnish with lemon wedges for a citrusy touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Shrimp Diablo pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread or tortillas.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Shrimp Diablo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Shrimp Diablo contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Shrimp Diablo contains approximately 2 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Shrimp Diablo contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Shrimp Diablo contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

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

Alergens

Shrimp Diablo contains shellfish and garlic, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Shrimp Diablo is a high-protein dish that is low in carbohydrates and calories. It is a good source of healthy fats and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Shrimp Diablo is a delicious and spicy dish that is perfect for seafood lovers. With a simple garlic paste and a quick grill, you can have a flavorful meal ready in no time. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a tasty and satisfying dinner.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Shrimp Diablo. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl learning to cook in my mother's kitchen. My mother was a fantastic cook, and she had a knack for creating delicious dishes that were full of flavor and spice.

One day, as I was leafing through an old cookbook that belonged to my grandmother, I stumbled upon a recipe for Shrimp Diablo. The name alone intrigued me - Diablo meaning devil in Spanish - and I knew I had to give it a try. The recipe called for shrimp, garlic, onions, tomatoes, and a variety of spices that promised to create a fiery and flavorful dish.

I decided to ask my grandmother about the recipe, as I was eager to learn more about it. She chuckled when I showed her the cookbook and told me that Shrimp Diablo was a recipe she had picked up many years ago during a trip to Mexico. She explained that it was a spicy shrimp dish that was popular in Mexican cuisine, and she was excited to share her version of the recipe with me.

My grandmother and I spent the afternoon in the kitchen, chopping, sautéing, and simmering the ingredients for Shrimp Diablo. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating - the scent of garlic, onions, and tomatoes mingling with the spicy kick of chili peppers. As we cooked, my grandmother shared stories of her travels and the different recipes she had collected over the years.

When the dish was finally ready, we sat down to eat and savored every bite of the fiery shrimp. The flavors were bold and intense, with the perfect balance of heat and richness. My grandmother smiled as she watched me enjoy the dish, knowing that I had inherited her love for cooking and exploring new recipes.

From that day on, Shrimp Diablo became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for special occasions, family gatherings, or just for a cozy night at home. Each time I cooked it, I would think of my grandmother and the day we spent together in the kitchen, bonding over a shared love of food and flavor.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks and adjustments to the original recipe for Shrimp Diablo, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. But the essence of the dish - the spicy shrimp, the tangy tomatoes, the aromatic garlic - remains the same, a reminder of the day I first discovered the recipe and the memories I shared with my beloved grandmother.

As I look back on that day now, I am filled with gratitude for the knowledge and passion for cooking that my grandmother passed down to me. She was more than just a cook - she was a teacher, a mentor, and a friend. And every time I make Shrimp Diablo, I am reminded of the love and connection that we shared in the kitchen, creating delicious dishes and lasting memories together.