Camarones al Ajillo (Shrimp in Garlic and Guajillo Sauce) Recipe

Introduction

Camarones al Ajillo is a vibrant Mexican dish featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a fragrant garlic and guajillo chile sauce. This recipe delivers a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and buttery flavors that is simple enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive for guests.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds large or extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails kept on
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup avocado or vegetable oil
• 3 large garlic cloves, minced
• 2 to 3 large dried guajillo chiles, stemmed and seeded, thinly sliced crosswise (about ¼ cup)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from 2 to 3 limes)
• Saltines or cooked rice, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Season the shrimp generously with salt and plenty of black pepper.
2. Step 2: Heat a large deep skillet over medium-low heat. Add the oil and minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon, until the garlic turns light golden brown, about 4 to 6 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the sliced guajillo chiles and cook for about 1 minute, until the oil takes on a light ruby red color and the chiles become pliable.
4. Step 4: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Increase the heat to medium and cook undisturbed for 2 minutes to develop a sear.
5. Step 5: Stir the shrimp and continue cooking until they start to curl and turn opaque, about 4 to 6 minutes more.
6. Step 6: Add the butter and fresh lime juice, stirring until the butter melts and coats the shrimp evenly, about 2 minutes. Turn off the heat and taste, then add more salt if desired.
7. Step 7: Serve immediately with saltines or cooked rice on the side if you like.

Tips & Variations

• Use avocado oil for a neutral flavor and higher smoke point, but vegetable oil works just as well.
• If guajillo chiles are hard to find, substitute with ancho or pasilla chiles for a similar smoky flavor.
• Adding a pinch of smoked paprika can enhance the smoky notes if desired.
• Serve with warm tortillas instead of rice for a traditional touch.

Storage

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking and maintain tenderness. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be refreshed with a squeeze of lime juice when reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Thaw them thoroughly and pat dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly and don’t release excess water.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level depends on the amount and type of dried chiles used. Guajillo chiles provide mild to moderate heat with rich flavor, so this dish is flavorful without being too spicy.