Spanish-style Garlic Shrimp with Ham

Spanish-Style Garlic Shrimp with Ham Recipe - Delicious and Flavorful

Region / culture: Spain | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spanish-style Garlic Shrimp with Ham is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the bold flavors of garlic, shrimp, ham, and red pepper flakes. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner when you want to impress your guests or family with a taste of Spain.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Spanish cuisine, where seafood plays a prominent role in many dishes. Garlic shrimp, or "gambas al ajillo," is a popular tapas dish in Spain, typically made with shrimp, garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. The addition of ham in this recipe adds a unique twist and depth of flavor to the dish.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) large shrimp, shelled, leaving the tail and the first joint of the shell intact, and de-veined (about 28)
1.5 tsp salt
8 cloves garlic, sliced thin lengthwise
0.5 cup olive oil
0.25 lb (113 g) thick-sliced cooked ham, chopped
0.25 tsp dried hot red pepper flakes
1 red bell pepper, chopped
0.25 cup sherry wine
minced fresh parsley leaves, if desired (to garnish)
crusty bread, as an accompaniment

How to prepare

Rinse the shrimp and pat them dry.
Sprinkle both sides of the shrimp with salt and let them rest between layers of paper towel for 10 minutes.
In a large heavy skillet, cook the garlic in oil over medium heat, stirring, until it turns golden. Transfer it to a small bowl using a slotted spoon.
Add the ham and red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook, stirring, for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the ham deepens in color.
Add the bell pepper to the skillet and cook, stirring, until it softens.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and sauté over high heat, turning the shrimp, for 3 minutes.
Add sherry and garlic to the skillet and simmer the mixture, stirring and turning the shrimp occasionally, until the shrimp are just cooked through.
Transfer the shrimp mixture to a heated serving dish, sprinkle it with parsley, and serve it with bread.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a burst of color and flavor.
Substitute chorizo or bacon for the ham for a different twist on the dish.
Add a splash of lemon juice or white wine vinegar for a tangy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to pat the shrimp dry before seasoning them with salt. This will help the shrimp cook evenly and prevent them from becoming watery.

- Cooking the garlic until it turns golden will infuse the oil with a rich garlic flavor, adding depth to the dish.

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

- Serve the dish with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spanish-style Garlic Shrimp with Ham with crusty bread and a side salad for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of white wine or a Spanish red wine for a perfect dining experience.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the shrimp over high heat to ensure they cook quickly and evenly.

- Simmer the shrimp in the garlic and wine mixture to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or tofu instead of shrimp for a vegetarian version of the dish.

- Substitute pancetta or prosciutto for the ham for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the garlic and ham mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to cook the shrimp. This will save you time and make the dish come together quickly.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Spanish-style Garlic Shrimp with Ham in a decorative serving dish garnished with fresh parsley leaves for a beautiful presentation. Serve it with crusty bread on the side for dipping in the flavorful sauce.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Spanish-style Garlic Shrimp with Ham with a crisp white wine such as Albariño or a Spanish red wine such as Tempranillo. Serve it with a side of sautéed vegetables or a green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Spanish-style Garlic Shrimp with Ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the dish in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, being careful not to overcook the shrimp.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spanish-style Garlic Shrimp with Ham contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Spanish-style Garlic Shrimp with Ham contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Spanish-style Garlic Shrimp with Ham contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Spanish-style Garlic Shrimp with Ham contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This dish contains shellfish (shrimp) and pork (ham).

Summary

Spanish-style Garlic Shrimp with Ham is a high-protein dish that is rich in healthy fats and vitamins. It is a flavorful and satisfying meal that is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was during my first trip to Spain, many years ago, that I stumbled upon a small seaside restaurant in a quaint little village. The aroma of garlic and seafood wafted through the air, drawing me in like a siren's call.

As I sat down at a table overlooking the shimmering Mediterranean Sea, I knew I was about to experience something truly magical. The waiter recommended the Spanish-style Garlic Shrimp with Ham, a dish that he claimed was a local specialty. Intrigued, I eagerly placed my order and waited in anticipation.

When the dish arrived, I was immediately captivated by its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma. The plump shrimp were nestled in a rich, garlicky sauce that danced on my taste buds with each bite. The addition of salty, savory ham added a depth of flavor that I had never experienced before.

I savored every morsel, letting the flavors linger on my palate long after the meal was finished. I knew in that moment that I had to learn how to recreate this dish at home. I begged the chef for the recipe, but he simply smiled and refused, claiming it was a closely guarded secret passed down through generations.

Undeterred, I made it my mission to uncover the secrets of this delectable dish. I spent countless hours experimenting in my own kitchen, trying different combinations of ingredients and techniques in an attempt to recreate the flavors that had left such a lasting impression on me.

After many failed attempts, I finally stumbled upon the perfect combination of ingredients that brought me back to that seaside village in Spain. The key, I discovered, was in the quality of the ingredients and the love and care that went into preparing the dish.

I never did manage to get the exact recipe from that elusive chef, but I like to think that my version of Spanish-style Garlic Shrimp with Ham comes pretty close. It has become a favorite among my family and friends, who always request it whenever they come to visit.

I take great pride in knowing that I have been able to recreate a dish that holds such special memories for me. Every time I make it, I am transported back to that sun-drenched terrace overlooking the sea, where the scent of garlic and seafood mingled in the warm Mediterranean breeze.

It is a dish that represents not only the flavors of Spain, but also the spirit of adventure and discovery that has guided me through my culinary journey. And for that, I am forever grateful.