Shrimp in Cilantro Sauce

Shrimp in Cilantro Sauce Recipe - Authentic Mexican Dish

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

Introduction

Shrimp in cilantro sauce is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the freshness of tomatillos, cilantro, and parsley with succulent shrimp. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a special occasion.

History

The origins of shrimp in cilantro sauce are not clear, but it is believed to have originated in Mexico or another Latin American country where cilantro is a popular herb used in cooking. This dish has become a favorite in many households due to its vibrant flavors and simple preparation.

Ingredients

8 oz (227 g) of fresh or frozen large shrimp in shells
2 tomatillos, husked, rinsed, and chopped (0.5 cup)
0.25 cup of chopped onion
1 clove of minced garlic
1 fresh jalapeno or serrano pepper, seeded and finely chopped
2 tsp of olive oil or cooking oil
0.25 cup of chicken broth
0.25 cup of lightly packed fresh cilantro sprigs
0.25 cup of lightly packed fresh parsley sprigs
1.5 cups of hot cooked rice
optional: tomato wedges
optional: cilantro sprigs

How to prepare

Thaw the shrimp, if frozen. Peel and devein the shrimp, then rinse them. Set the shrimp aside.

Green sauce

In a medium skillet, cook the tomatillos, onion, garlic, and jalapeno or serrano pepper in hot oil for about 5 minutes or until the onion is tender.
Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
Place the tomatillo mixture in a blender container or food processor bowl. Add the chicken broth, cilantro, and parsley.
Cover and blend or process until the mixture is nearly smooth.
Return the mixture to the skillet and heat it through.

Assembly

Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, cook the shrimp in boiling water for 1 to 3 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink. Drain them well.
Toss the cooked shrimp with the sauce.
To serve, spoon the shrimp mixture over rice.
If desired, garnish with tomato wedges and additional cilantro.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor.
Use cilantro lime rice instead of plain rice for a citrusy twist.
Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.

Notes

Make-ahead tip: prepare the sauce as directed, except do not return the sauce to the skillet. Cover and chill the sauce for up to 2 days. To serve, place in a covered saucepan and heat over medium heat until hot.
Double the recipe to serve 4
Use a large skillet to cook the tomatillo mixture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to devein the shrimp before cooking to remove any grit or sand.

- Adjust the amount of serrano pepper to your desired level of spiciness.

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

- Garnish with fresh cilantro and tomato wedges for a beautiful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve shrimp in cilantro sauce over hot cooked rice for a complete meal. Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition.

Cooking Techniques

Blending the tomatillo mixture creates a smooth and flavorful sauce.

- Boiling the shrimp quickly cooks them without overcooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use parsley or cilantro in place of each other if one herb is not available.

- Substitute jalapeno pepper for serrano pepper for a milder heat level.

Make Ahead Tips

The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cook the shrimp and assemble the dish just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh cilantro sprigs and tomato wedges for a colorful presentation. Serve in individual bowls or on a platter for a family-style meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair shrimp in cilantro sauce with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer. Serve with a side of Mexican rice and black beans for a complete meal.

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 shrimp in cilantro sauce contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of shrimp in cilantro sauce contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of shrimp in cilantro sauce contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of shrimp in cilantro sauce contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Shrimp is a good source of vitamin B12, vitamin D, and selenium. Cilantro and parsley are rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (shrimp) and may not be suitable for individuals with shellfish allergies.

Summary

Shrimp in cilantro sauce is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and low in calories. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Shrimp in cilantro sauce is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this dish for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Shrimp in Cilantro Sauce. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn all I could about the art of cooking.

I had always been drawn to the kitchen, watching my mother and grandmother prepare delicious meals with love and care. It was a magical place for me, filled with the tantalizing aromas of spices and herbs, the sizzle of vegetables in a hot pan, and the comforting warmth of the oven. I knew that I wanted to be just like them, creating dishes that would bring joy and nourishment to those I loved.

One day, while rummaging through my grandmother's old recipe box, I stumbled upon a faded, yellowed card with the words "Shrimp in Cilantro Sauce" scrawled across the top in elegant script. Intrigued, I carefully read through the ingredients and instructions, my mouth watering at the thought of the flavors and textures that would come together in this dish.

As I studied the recipe, I realized that it was unlike anything I had ever seen before. The combination of fresh shrimp, fragrant cilantro, tangy lime juice, and spicy jalapenos was both exotic and enticing. I knew that I had to learn how to make it, to unlock the secrets of this tantalizing dish and make it my own.

I eagerly approached my grandmother, the keeper of all culinary knowledge in our family, and asked her about the recipe. She smiled knowingly and told me that it was a special dish that she had learned from a dear friend many years ago. "It's a family secret," she said, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "But I think it's time for you to learn how to make it."

And so, my grandmother became my mentor, guiding me through the process of creating Shrimp in Cilantro Sauce with patience and wisdom. She showed me how to select the freshest shrimp, how to chop cilantro with precision, how to balance the flavors of the sauce with just the right amount of spice and acidity.

I watched in awe as she worked her magic in the kitchen, her hands moving with grace and confidence as she sautéed the shrimp to perfection, simmered the cilantro sauce until it was rich and flavorful, and plated the dish with a garnish of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime juice. It was a masterpiece, a symphony of colors, textures, and aromas that filled the room with a tantalizing perfume.

As I took my first bite of the Shrimp in Cilantro Sauce, I knew that I had discovered something truly special. The tender shrimp melted in my mouth, the vibrant cilantro sauce danced on my taste buds, and the subtle heat of the jalapenos lingered on my tongue. It was a revelation, a culinary experience that opened my eyes to the endless possibilities of flavor and creativity in the kitchen.

From that day on, Shrimp in Cilantro Sauce became a staple in my cooking repertoire, a dish that I would make for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights at home. Each time I prepared it, I felt a connection to my grandmother and the generations of women who had come before me, passing down their knowledge and passion for food.

And now, as I share this recipe with you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will feel the same sense of wonder and joy that I did when I first learned to make Shrimp in Cilantro Sauce. May it bring you warmth, comfort, and the taste of love shared around the table. Bon appétit!