RecipesDominican RepublicCamarones en Salsa de Coco

Camarones en Salsa de Coco

Succulent shrimp simmered in a rich, creamy coconut milk sauce infused with aromatic spices, bell peppers, and onions. This dish offers a delightful taste of the Dominican coast, perfect served with white rice.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyMedium
Camarones en Salsa de Coco - Dominican Republic traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs Large shrimp(peeled and deveined)
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1/2 medium Red onion(thinly sliced)
  • 1/2 medium Red bell pepper(thinly sliced)
  • 1/2 medium Green bell pepper(thinly sliced)
  • 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
  • 1 tsp Dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp Ground cumin
  • 1 can (13.5 oz) Coconut milk(full-fat)
  • 1 tbsp Tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Lime juice
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper
  • 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Set aside.

    💡 Tip: Ensuring the shrimp is seasoned well before cooking enhances the overall flavor.
  2. 2

    Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

    💡 Tip: Sautéing the vegetables until softened releases their natural sweetness and aroma.
  3. 3

    Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

    💡 Tip: Toasting the spices briefly awakens their flavors.
  4. 4

    Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.

    💡 Tip: Cooking the tomato paste slightly deepens its flavor.
  5. 5

    Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 5-7 minutes to slightly thicken.

    💡 Tip: Simmering allows the coconut milk to reduce and the flavors to meld.
  6. 6

    Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through, stirring occasionally.

    💡 Tip: Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become tough.
  7. 7

    Stir in the lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.

    💡 Tip: Lime juice adds a touch of brightness to balance the richness of the coconut milk.
  8. 8

    Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with white rice.

    💡 Tip: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest sauce.
  • Adjust the spice levels to your preference.
  • This dish is also delicious with other types of seafood like fish or scallops.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
  • Incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or plantains.
  • Serve over rice, quinoa, or with crusty bread for dipping.

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