Camarones al Mojo de Ajo: Authentic Mexican Shrimp in Garlic Sauce Recipe

Camarones al Mojo de Ajo, or Mexican Garlic Shrimp, is a classic dish renowned for its simple yet incredibly flavorful combination of succulent shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic-infused sauce. This recipe captures the essence of traditional Mexican cuisine, offering a delightful and easy-to-prepare meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The aromatic garlic, combined with the freshness of the shrimp and the subtle heat of chili flakes, creates a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to the sun-kissed shores of Mexico. Get ready to savor every bite of this authentic culinary experience!

What is Camarones al Mojo de Ajo?

“Camarones al Mojo de Ajo” directly translates to “Shrimp in Garlic Sauce.” It’s a cornerstone of Mexican coastal cuisine, celebrated for its simplicity and bold flavors. The “mojo de ajo” (garlic mojo) is the star of the show, a rich and aromatic sauce made primarily with garlic, butter or oil, and often a touch of chili. The shrimp are cooked directly in this sauce, absorbing all the delicious flavors. While variations exist across different regions of Mexico, the core ingredients remain the same, ensuring a consistently satisfying dish.

Why This Recipe Works

This particular recipe is designed for both ease and authenticity. It uses readily available ingredients and straightforward techniques to deliver a truly exceptional dish. Here’s why it works so well:

• Simple Ingredients, Bold Flavor: We focus on high-quality ingredients like fresh shrimp, garlic, and butter to create a deeply flavorful sauce without relying on complex or hard-to-find additions.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Authentic Taste: We use traditional methods and proportions to ensure the final dish captures the true essence of Camarones al Mojo de Ajo.
• Customizable Heat: You can easily adjust the amount of chili flakes to control the level of spiciness to your preference.
• Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: The instructions guide you to cook the shrimp to perfection, ensuring they are tender and juicy, not rubbery.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make Camarones al Mojo de Ajo:

• Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined. Medium to large shrimp (31/40 or 26/30 count) are ideal. Ensure they are fresh for the best flavor.
• Garlic: 8-10 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is absolutely crucial for this recipe; don’t substitute with garlic powder.
• Butter: 4 tablespoons, unsalted. Butter adds richness and flavor to the sauce. You can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, extra virgin. Olive oil helps to prevent the butter from burning and adds a fruity undertone to the sauce.
• Chili Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste. Adds a touch of heat. You can use crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of dried chili powder. For a more authentic flavor, consider using dried árbol chiles, seeded and finely chopped.
• Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed. The acidity of the lime juice balances the richness of the butter and garlic.
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped. Adds freshness and a pop of color. Cilantro is also a good alternative, though it has a more assertive flavor.
• Salt: To taste. Use kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor.
• Black Pepper: To taste. Freshly ground black pepper is preferred.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large Skillet or Pan
• Garlic Press or Knife for Mincing Garlic
• Measuring Spoons and Cups
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Lemon Juicer (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect Camarones al Mojo de Ajo:

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Ensure the shrimp are properly peeled and deveined. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them to brown properly in the pan.

Step 2: Mince the Garlic

Mince the garlic cloves very finely. The smaller the pieces, the more flavor will be released into the sauce. A garlic press can be used, but mincing with a knife provides a slightly better texture.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet or pan, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chili flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it bitter. Reduce the heat if necessary.

Step 4: Add the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this will cause the shrimp to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The lime juice will deglaze the pan and help to create a cohesive sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the Camarones al Mojo de Ajo immediately, garnished with extra parsley and lime wedges. It’s delicious served with rice, tortillas, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Tips for the Best Camarones al Mojo de Ajo

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Camarones al Mojo de Ajo turns out perfectly every time:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of the ingredients significantly impacts the flavor of the dish. Fresh shrimp and garlic are essential for the best results.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
• Be Careful Not to Burn the Garlic: Burnt garlic will make the sauce bitter. Keep a close eye on it while it’s sautéing and reduce the heat if necessary.
• Adjust the Heat to Your Liking: The amount of chili flakes can be adjusted to control the spiciness of the dish. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
• Serve Immediately: Camarones al Mojo de Ajo is best served immediately while the shrimp are still hot and the sauce is flavorful.
• Deglaze the Pan Properly: Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan when adding the lime juice. These bits add a lot of flavor to the sauce.
• Consider using Brown Butter: For a nuttier, richer flavour, brown the butter before adding the garlic. Watch it carefully as it can burn quickly.

Variations and Additions

While this recipe is delicious as is, here are some variations and additions you can try:

• Spice it Up: Add a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper to the sauce for extra heat.
• Add Vegetables: Sauté some diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms along with the garlic for added flavor and texture.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or Mexican crema at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Use Different Herbs: Try using cilantro instead of parsley, or add a sprig of fresh oregano or thyme to the sauce.
• Add a Splash of Tequila or White Wine: Deglaze the pan with a splash of tequila or white wine for added flavor. Be sure to cook off the alcohol before adding the shrimp.
• Serve with Different Sides: Experiment with different sides, such as Mexican rice, black beans, or a simple salad.
• Garlic Infused Oil: Instead of butter, consider using garlic-infused olive oil for an even more intense garlic flavor.
• Add Worcestershire Sauce: A dash of Worcestershire sauce can add a subtle umami flavour to the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Camarones al Mojo de Ajo is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• As a Main Course: Serve it over rice, quinoa, or pasta for a complete meal.
• As Tacos or Burritos Filling: Use it as a filling for tacos or burritos. Add some shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, and a drizzle of your favorite sauce.
• As an Appetizer: Serve it with crusty bread for dipping.
• With Salads: Add it to a salad for a protein boost.
• With Vegetables: Serve it alongside grilled or roasted vegetables.

Make Ahead and Storage Instructions

Make Ahead: The garlic mojo sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the shrimp just before serving.

Storage: Leftover Camarones al Mojo de Ajo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the shrimp rubbery.

Recipe Card

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Per Serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 350-400
• Fat: 25-30g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 5-10g

Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Conclusion

Camarones al Mojo de Ajo is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that’s sure to impress. The combination of succulent shrimp and flavorful garlic sauce is simply irresistible. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks alike. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to enjoy a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

   Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Thaw them completely before cooking and pat them dry with paper towels.

2. Can I use olive oil instead of butter?

   Yes, you can substitute olive oil for butter. It will give the sauce a lighter flavor.

3. How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

   Keep a close eye on the garlic while it’s sautéing and reduce the heat if necessary. You can also add a splash of water or broth to the pan to prevent it from burning.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

   The garlic mojo sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Add the shrimp just before serving.

5. What side dishes go well with Camarones al Mojo de Ajo?

   Camarones al Mojo de Ajo is delicious served with rice, tortillas, black beans, or a simple salad.

6. Can I add other vegetables?

   Yes! Diced bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms all work well. Sauté them with the garlic.

7. Is it spicy?

   The recipe includes chili flakes for a mild spice. Adjust the amount according to your preference, or omit them entirely for a non-spicy version.

8. Can I use pre-minced garlic?

   While fresh minced garlic is highly recommended for its superior flavor, pre-minced garlic can be used in a pinch. Keep in mind the flavor will be less intense.

9. What type of shrimp is best?

   Medium to large shrimp (31/40 or 26/30 count) are ideal, but any size will work. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

10. Can I grill the shrimp instead of pan-frying?

    Yes, grilling the shrimp is a delicious alternative. Marinate the shrimp in the garlic mojo for about 30 minutes before grilling. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.