Camarones al ajillo or al mojo de ajo (garlic shrimp) is a simple dish that reminds me of trips to coastal towns, and lazy afternoons by the beach. Make it with this recipe with video.
By - Reviewed: . Original: Dec 28, 2010
Why we ❤️ it
Camarones al Ajillo (Garlic Shrimp) is a dish that reminds me of trips to faraway coastal towns, restaurants overlooking the beach and lazy afternoons.
It reminds me of inexpensive but surprisingly satisfying meals. Of little restaurants by the water. Of cold beers and cool breezes blowing across my sand-covered bare feet.
Some of the good things in life need not be complicated. Garlic Shrimp is one of those things.
Camarones al ajilo or camarones al mojo de ajo
Few ingredients but strong flavors combine in this dish reminiscent of the Spanish Gambas al ajillo, but a criollo version. Unlike its Spanish cousin, which is usually served as a 'tapa' or a starter, Dominican Camarones al ajillo, known as Camarones al mojo de ajo in some countries, is a main dish.
And like the Spanish dish, now served with pomp and circumstance in highfalutin restaurants the world over, this humble colonial cousin is best enjoyed close to the source: at the beach.
Garlic shrimp (camarones al ajillo).
Serving suggestions
My favorite way to serve garlic shrimp is for lunch or dinner with Tostones or Green banana tostones, and some lime wedges.
As for drinks, it goes great with a Dominican fria, or a glass of white wine if you're feeling a little more "sophisticated." 😁
Top tips
- Bell pepper: You may or may not add bell pepper-both versions are common-but I prefer it with bell pepper because it adds extra flavor and color.
- Black pepper: You can add a pinch of black pepper if you like, though I don't think it's necessary.
- Garlic: The amount of garlic depends on your taste; you can add more if you like a stronger flavor. You can also crush it instead of slicing it for a stronger flavor and a creamier consistency.
About our recipe
Few ingredients but bold flavors in a dish that's best enjoyed closer to where it comes from (by the sea).
This is my favorite recipe, inspired by the Montecriste-style fondas that bring back such fond memories.
Do you make it differently at home? Let me know in the comments.
Video
Recipe
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Camarones al Ajillo or Al Mojo de Ajo [Video+Recipe] Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Heat the oil
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Sauté the vegetables
- Add the garlic and a teaspoon of salt. Sauté, stirring, until the garlic begins to release its aroma (about 1 minute).Add the bell pepper and sauté for another minute or two, until it begins to soften.
3. Cook the shrimp
- Add the shrimp and cook (stirring occasionally) until they turn pink.Taste and season with salt to taste if needed.
4. Serve
- Remove from heat and garnish with a few leaves of cilantro or parsley (optional).Serve with the limes. See serving suggestions in the recipe
Nutrition
Nutritional information is calculated automatically based on ingredients listed. Please consult your doctor if you need precise nutrition information.
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More garlic shrimp
We have lots of shrimp recipes on the blog, and shrimp is one of my favorite ingredients. Camarones guisados is a classic, and Locrio de camarones rice and Asopao de camarones pottage are practically a perfect meal in themselves for any day. Mofongo stuffed with shrimp is my absolute favorite.
And if you want something non-traditional, Garlic butter shrimp is a dish similar to this one-and it's fabulous.
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