Authentic Cuban Camarones Enchilados Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 can (8 ounces) of tomato sauce
  • 1/4 cup of dry white wine
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and bell pepper to the pan and sauté until they are softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 1 minute.
  4. Stir in the tomato sauce, white wine, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  6. Add the shrimp to the pan and cook until they are pink and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
  7. Garnish the dish with the chopped parsley before serving.

Tools for making

  • Large pan - A large pan is needed to sauté the onions, peppers, and garlic, as well as to cook the shrimp with the sauce.
  • Knife - A knife is required to finely chop the onion and bell pepper.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board is necessary for safely chopping the vegetables.
  • Garlic press - A garlic press can be used to mince the garlic cloves.
  • Spatula - A spatula will help in stirring and flipping the shrimp and vegetables while cooking.
  • Can opener - A can opener is needed to open the can of tomato sauce.
  • Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are necessary for accurately measuring the paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt.
  • Cooking spoon - A cooking spoon is needed for stirring the sauce and shrimp.
  • Chopping board - A chopping board can be used for chopping the fresh parsley.
  • Chef's knife - A chef's knife is needed for chopping the fresh parsley.

Recipe variations

  • Try using different seafood options such as scallops or white fish instead of shrimp.
  • For a spicier version, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some diced jalapenos.
  • Add some diced tomatoes or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and texture.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as adding cumin or oregano.
  • For a creamier sauce, stir in some coconut milk or heavy cream.
  • Include some vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or corn to make it more hearty.
  • For a vegetarian option, substitute the shrimp with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of white wine.
  • Add a squeeze of lime juice or a dash of hot sauce for a tangy kick.
  • Serve the dish over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Recipe overview

If you're a seafood lover, you'll certainly enjoy our Camarones Enchilados recipe. This delightful Cuban dish features large shrimp cooked in a spicy tomato sauce, with flavors of onion, pepper, garlic, and white wine adding to its rich profile. The process is simple and quick, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. In about 30 minutes, you can enjoy this vibrant, spicy, and slightly tangy dish that pairs well with rice or warm bread. Just remember, the magic is in the sauce, so let it simmer long enough for the flavors to meld together beautifully. Get ready to experience a piece of Cuban cuisine right in your kitchen!

Common questions

  1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
  2. Can I substitute the dry white wine with something else? If you prefer, you can substitute the white wine with chicken or vegetable broth.
  3. Can I adjust the level of spiciness? Certainly! If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. If you like it spicier, you can add more cayenne pepper or even some hot sauce.
  4. What can I serve with Camarones Enchilados? This dish pairs well with white rice, crusty bread, or even pasta. You can also serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
  5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While it is best to serve the Camarones Enchilados immediately after cooking, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and cook the shrimp until they are pink and cooked through.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pan - A large pan is needed to sauté the vegetables and cook the shrimp.
  • Spatula - A spatula is useful for stirring the ingredients in the pan.
  • Knife - A knife is needed to finely chop the onion and bell pepper.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables.
  • Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are essential for accurately portioning the spices.
  • Can opener - A can opener is required to open the can of tomato sauce.
  • Serving dish - A serving dish is needed to present the Camarones Enchilados.
  • Garnish sprigs - Optional, but garnish sprigs like parsley can enhance the appearance of the dish.

Origin stories

Camarones Enchilados, or spicy shrimp, is a beloved dish in Cuba. It carries the deep flavors and vibrant colors of the Caribbean nation, reflecting its rich cultural heritage. The dish is often savored by the seaside, with the sound of waves gently lapping the shore and the scent of the ocean filling the air. Despite its name, the dish is not actually "enchiladas" as one might think in the context of Mexican cuisine. Instead, "enchilado" in Cuban cuisine refers to a dish made with a tomato-based sauce, heavily spiced, showcasing the island's love for robust flavors. The inclusion of seafood, particularly shrimp, is a nod to the country's abundant coastal waters and fishing culture. Each ingredient, each stir of the pot, tells a tale of Cuban life. So, while you enjoy this dish, remember: you're not just savoring food, you're savoring a piece of Cuba.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.