Description
Camarones Rancheros is a vibrant Mexican seafood dish featuring succulent shrimp simmered in a zesty tomato, onion, garlic, and pepper sauce. Fast and flavorful, this recipe brings authentic ranchero flavors to your table, perfect for serving alongside rice, tortillas, or beans for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 small onion, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Instructions
- Season the shrimp: In a bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, ensuring each shrimp is evenly coated with the spices.
- Heat the oil and sauté vegetables: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add garlic and jalapeño: Stir in the minced garlic and finely chopped jalapeño, cooking for an additional 30 seconds to release their aroma without burning.
- Make the tomato sauce: Add the diced tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth to the skillet. Reduce the heat slightly and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften and create a flavorful sauce.
- Cook the shrimp: Nestle the seasoned shrimp into the sauce and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
- Finish with lime and cilantro: Remove the skillet from heat, stir in the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro, mixing well to incorporate the bright flavors.
- Serve: Immediately serve the Camarones Rancheros with warm tortillas, rice, or beans to complete this delicious meal.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, keep the jalapeño seeds; for milder, remove them before chopping.
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor; frozen can be used but thaw thoroughly before cooking.
- Chicken or vegetable broth adds depth, but water can be substituted in a pinch.
- Serve with warm corn tortillas or over Mexican rice for a complete traditional meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to two days but are best enjoyed fresh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Seafood
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
