camarones a la diabla recipe
The Best camarones a la diabla recipe
I also love how adaptable it is. Swap in extra garlic or a splash of lime for more zing, or reduce the cayenne if you prefer it milder. It’s a dish that feels like a little celebration every time, whether you’re serving it to guests or just enjoying it with your family after a long day. Plus, shrimp is a lean protein, and the tomatoes and onions add vitamins and antioxidants that make it a little healthier than you might expect. No one ever notices it’s a meal prep favorite, either—it reheats beautifully and holds up in the fridge for a few days.
Camarones a la Diabla
A bold, spicy shrimp dish with a smoky tomato sauce and a touch of heat, perfect for a lively meal. The tangy, garlicky sauce balances the sweetness of the shrimp for a flavorful bite.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp sugar
- ½ tsp oregano
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp vinegar (apple cider or white)
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside. -
2
In the same skillet, sauté garlic and jalapeño until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, cayenne, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir and simmer for 10 minutes. -
3
Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and pulp. Return shrimp to the skillet, spooning sauce over them. Cook for 2 more minutes to let flavors meld.
🔧Equipment
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Plate
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Serve with warm tortillas or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Watch Video Of How Camarones a la Diabla Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Camarones a la Diabla
1. What is the difference between camarones a la diabla and other shrimp dishes?
Camarones a la diabla is a bold, spicy shrimp dish that stands out from milder preparations like sautéed shrimp or shrimp tacos. It uses a rich, tangy tomato-based sauce with a kick of heat from chili peppers, giving it a distinct flavor profile that’s both sweet and fiery. Unlike dishes that rely on butter, cream, or mild spices, this recipe leans into the natural sweetness of the shrimp and the depth of the sauce, making it a standout for those who enjoy bold flavors.
2. Can I substitute any of the ingredients for dietary restrictions?
While this recipe is traditionally made with fresh shrimp, you can use frozen shrimp if fresh isn’t available. For the sauce, you can adjust the sweetness by adding a bit more sugar or honey if you prefer a less tangy flavor. If you’re avoiding tomatoes, you could swap them for a mix of bell peppers and onions for a slightly different but still flavorful base. Always ensure any substitutions align with your dietary needs—like checking for gluten-free or low-sodium alternatives if required.
3. How do I ensure the shrimp stay tender while they cook?
The key to tender shrimp in this dish is cooking them quickly over high heat. Pat the shrimp dry before cooking to prevent them from steaming instead of searing. Cook them in batches if they’re large to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature and make them tough. Use a nonstick or well-seasoned skillet to ensure even browning. Remove them from the pan as soon as they turn opaque and slightly pink, as they’ll continue to cook slightly in the sauce.
4. Why does the recipe call for both green and red chili peppers?
The combination of green and red chili peppers adds layers of heat and flavor. Green chilis contribute a bright, fresh acidity that cuts through the richness of the sauce, while red chilis bring depth and a smoky warmth. This balance ensures the dish isn’t just spicy but also complex and satisfying. If you prefer a milder heat, you can reduce the amount of red chili or skip it entirely, but the green chili will still provide a noticeable kick.
5. How long should I let the sauce simmer?
The sauce should simmer gently for about 5 to 7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial for developing the tangy, slightly sweet profile of the dish. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and if the sauce thickens too much, you can add a splash of water or broth to loosen it. Don’t let it boil vigorously, as this can burn the sauce and make it bitter.
