Spanish Fricasseed Shrimps. Recipe

Spanish fricasseed shrimps, also known as gambas al ajillo, are a delicious and popular dish in Spanish cuisine. This recipe combines the flavors of juicy shrimps, garlic, olive oil, and spices to create a mouthwatering dish that is perfect as an appetizer or main course.

Gambas al ajillo has a long history in Spanish cooking and is believed to have originated in the southern region of Spain, particularly in Andalusia. The dish showcases the Mediterranean flavors and is loved for its simplicity and bold flavors.

To begin, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of fresh shrimps, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust according to your spice preference)
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste

Now let's get started with the recipe:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.

2. Once the garlic is golden, add the shrimps to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the shrimps for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking the shrimps as they can become rubbery.

3. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the shrimps and give it a quick stir to combine. The parsley adds a fresh and vibrant flavor to the dish.

4. Transfer the fricasseed shrimps to a serving platter and drizzle any remaining garlic-infused oil from the skillet over the top. This oil is packed with flavor and adds an extra punch to the dish.

Now, your Spanish fricasseed shrimps are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them as an appetizer with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices or as a main course accompanied by a side dish like sautéed vegetables or a refreshing salad.

Fun Fact: Gambas al ajillo is a popular tapas dish in Spain. Tapas are small, flavorful dishes that are usually served with drinks. The tradition of serving tapas originated in Andalusia, where travelers used to cover their drinks with small plates to keep away the flies. Eventually, the small plates started to hold small bites of food, evolving into what we now know as tapas.

If you're a seafood lover, you might also enjoy other similar Spanish dishes such as paella, which is a rice dish cooked with various seafood ingredients, like shrimps, mussels, and clams. Another delicious option is "pulpo a la gallega," which is boiled octopus seasoned with olive oil, paprika, and sea salt.

So, whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving some mouthwatering seafood, give this Spanish fricasseed shrimps recipe a try. Its succulent flavors and aromatic garlic will surely transport you to the sunny shores of Spain!

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