Shrimp Kebabs

Ghanaian Shrimp Kebabs with Curry Powder and Lemon Juice

Region / culture: Ghana | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Shrimp kebabs are a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a special dinner. The combination of juicy shrimp, savory mushrooms, and a tangy tomato-based sauce makes for a mouthwatering meal that is sure to impress your guests.

History

Shrimp kebabs have been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. The concept of skewering meat and vegetables and cooking them over an open flame dates back to ancient times. In modern times, shrimp kebabs have become a staple on restaurant menus and are a favorite dish for home cooks looking to add some variety to their meals.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of fresh large shrimp, cleaned
1 tsp of curry powder
0.25 cup of lemon juice
1 tsp of white pepper
salt to taste
1 medium onion, minced
0.5 lb (227 g) of mushrooms (optional)
0.25 cup of melted butter
1 cup of tomato juice

How to prepare

Season the shrimp with lemon juice and salt.
Let it stand for 10 minutes.
Clean the mushrooms.
Mix the remaining ingredients together.
Alternate the shrimp and mushrooms on skewers; coat them with the mixture of the remaining ingredients and arrange them in a shallow baking dish.
Bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F, turning them from time to time until the shrimp are done and the sauce dries up.
Baste them constantly.
Serve hot.

Variations

Use different marinades or seasonings for the shrimp, such as garlic, herbs, or chili flakes.
Substitute the mushrooms with bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for a different flavor profile.
Add pineapple or mango chunks to the kebabs for a touch of sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to clean the shrimp thoroughly before marinating them to remove any grit or sand.

- Soak the skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the shrimp and mushrooms onto them to prevent them from burning on the grill.

- Baste the kebabs frequently while cooking to keep them moist and flavorful.

- Serve the kebabs with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the shrimp kebabs with a side of rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grill the kebabs over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

- Bake the kebabs in the oven at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through.

- Broil the kebabs on high for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are charred and cooked.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken, beef, or tofu instead of shrimp for a different protein option.

- Substitute the tomato juice with barbecue sauce, teriyaki sauce, or sweet chili sauce for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Marinate the shrimp and mushrooms in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

- Thread the shrimp and mushrooms onto skewers and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the shrimp kebabs on a bed of rice or quinoa for an elegant presentation. - Garnish the kebabs with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the shrimp kebabs with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

- Pair the kebabs with a light and refreshing salad, such as a cucumber and tomato salad or a Greek salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover shrimp kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Reheat the kebabs in the microwave or oven until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of shrimp kebabs contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of shrimp kebabs contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of shrimp kebabs contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of shrimp kebabs contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Shrimp is a good source of vitamin B12, vitamin D, and selenium. Mushrooms are rich in vitamin D, potassium, and copper.

Alergens

Shrimp kebabs contain shellfish and dairy (butter) allergens.

Summary

Shrimp kebabs are a nutritious and protein-rich dish that is low in carbohydrates and calories. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy choice for a balanced diet.

Summary

Shrimp kebabs are a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful and nutritious meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Shrimp Kebabs. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, visiting my aunt's house for the summer. My aunt was an amazing cook and loved to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. One evening, as we sat down for dinner, she brought out a platter of beautifully grilled shrimp kebabs, each skewered with chunks of bell peppers and onions. The aroma that wafted from the platter was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to dig in.

As I savored each bite of the succulent shrimp, I knew I had to learn how to make this dish for myself. My aunt was more than happy to share her recipe with me, and so began my journey into the world of cooking.

The first step in making shrimp kebabs, my aunt told me, was to marinate the shrimp in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. This would infuse the shrimp with flavor and help them stay juicy and tender when grilled. I watched as she carefully threaded the shrimp onto skewers, alternating them with pieces of colorful bell peppers and onions. The kebabs looked like works of art, each one a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

As the kebabs cooked on the grill, I could hardly contain my excitement. The sizzle of the shrimp as they hit the hot grates, the aroma of the marinade mingling with the smoke from the charcoal - it was a sensory experience like no other. When the kebabs were finally done, we sat down to enjoy them together, savoring each bite and relishing in the joy of a delicious meal shared with loved ones.

From that day on, shrimp kebabs became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made them for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on lazy summer evenings. Each time I cooked them, I could feel my aunt's presence in the kitchen with me, guiding me with her expertise and wisdom.

Over the years, I have tweaked and perfected the recipe for shrimp kebabs, adding my own personal touches and experimenting with different marinades and seasonings. But no matter how many times I make them, the magic of that first taste always lingers, reminding me of the joy and wonder I felt as a young girl discovering the art of cooking.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to my own grandchildren, I hope they too will feel that sense of wonder and excitement that comes from creating something delicious with their own hands. Cooking is more than just a chore or a task - it is a form of expression, a way to connect with others, and a source of endless joy and satisfaction.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, preparing a meal for yourself or your loved ones, remember the story of the shrimp kebabs and the sense of wonder that inspired me to become the cook I am today. And may each bite you take be filled with love, laughter, and the magic of good food shared with good company.