Cuban Shrimp Creole

shrimp

dinner

Cuban

Servings: 4

Author: Chef Connie

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Enchilado de Camarones (Cuban Shrimp Creole)

Enchilado de Camarones (Cuban-style Shrimp Creole)—a traditional Cuban dish known for its bold, savory tomato-based sauce infused with spices and sweet peppers.

Prep time: 15 MinCook time: 25 MinTotal time: 40 Min

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Ingredients

• ½ lbs (680 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• ½ cup seafood stock (or water)
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of ½ lime or lemon
• Cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions

1. Season shrimp lightly with salt and pepper. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion, green and red bell peppers. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until soft and fragrant.
4. Stir in the garlic, cumin, oregano, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
5. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
6. Add white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any brown bits.
7. Add tomato sauce, seafood stock, bay leaf, and bring to a simmer.
8. Simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens slightly.
9. Add shrimp to the simmering sauce and cook for 3–4 minutes until pink and just cooked through.
10. Remove from heat and add a splash of lime or lemon juice for brightness.
11. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
12. Serve hot over fluffy white rice.
13. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Calories

236

Fat

8 g

Sat. Fat

1 g

Carbs

23 g

Fiber

4 g

Net carbs

18 g

Sugar

9 g

Protein

16 g

Sodium

389 mg

Cholesterol

91 mg

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Cuban Creole Shrimp is a vibrant dish that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Cuba, blending the flavors of the Caribbean with Spanish influences. The dish typically features fresh shrimp seasoned with a variety of spices, including garlic, cumin, and paprika, which infuse the shrimp with a warm and aromatic profile. The key to achieving depth in flavor lies in the sofrito, a traditional mixture of sautéed onions, bell peppers, and garlic that forms the base of many Cuban dishes. This flavorful foundation creates a robust sauce that envelops the shrimp, enhancing their natural sweetness and making each bite incredibly satisfying.

One of the standout features of Cuban Creole Shrimp is its versatility. While the dish is often served over rice or with crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce, it can also be enjoyed in a variety of settings, from a refined dinner party to a casual family gathering. The addition of fresh herbs, such as cilantro and parsley, not only brightens the dish visually but also adds an aromatic freshness that balances the richness of the shrimp and sauce. This adaptability makes it a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike, allowing for personal touches and regional variations.

Cuban Creole Shrimp is not just a meal; it's an experience that embodies the warmth and hospitality of Cuban culture. It invites diners to gather around the table, share stories, and enjoy the simple pleasure of good food. The dish often evokes memories of coastal dining in Cuba, where fresh seafood is plentiful, and the vibrant colors of the ingredients reflect the island's tropical landscape. For those looking to explore the flavors of Cuba, this dish serves as a perfect introduction to the island's culinary traditions and the joys of home-cooked meals.