Gambas al ajillo (Spanish Garlic shrimp)
From the dusty central plains to the islands plopped in the azure waters of the Mediterranean, you’ll find the delicious aroma of Gambas al ajillo (Garlic shrimp) wafting from all regions of Spain. This recipe is quick and super easy to make and can be made in around 15 minutes. Best of all doesn’t require any special equipment or fancy ingredients! Get your skillets ready, let’s make Spain's famous tapas dish, gambas al ajillo!
Equipment
- 1 12 inch skillet / 30 cm pan
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp/400 grams of large raw shrimp
- 12 large garlic cloves
- 1 small onion optional
- 1 heaped teaspoons of sweet Spanish paprika
- ½ teaspoon of dried chili flakes add more if you like more heat!
- 1/2 cup 100 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large shot 60 ml fine sherry wine
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley optional for garnish
- 1 lemon half of the zest
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- Peel the shrimp completely, without the shells and heads, and season lightly with a pinch of salt. Soak in chilled water for 10 minutes.1 lb shrimp/400 grams of large raw shrimp
- Remove the shrimp from the water and set them aside. Meanwhile, peel the garlic and cut it into thin slices.12 large garlic cloves
- In the skillet, set to medium heat, add half of the olive oil, and once hot add the finely chopped onion. Cook the onion until golden, then add the sliced garlic. Cook for around 3-4 minutes or until the garlic starts to golden slightly.1 small onion, 12 large garlic cloves
- Add the remaining oil and give it a minute to heat up. Add all of the shrimp and cook for around 3 minutes on each side or until golden.1/2 cup 100 ml extra virgin olive oil, 1 lb shrimp/400 grams of large raw shrimp
- Once you flip the shrimp, add the sherry and a little lemon zest and stir occasionally to allow the shrimp to collect with the garlic and spices.1 large shot, 1 lemon
- Add the chili, and toasted paprika, and stir through. Cook for another minute.1 heaped teaspoons of sweet Spanish paprika, 1 pinch salt
- Once everything has slightly browned, remove from the heat and sprinkle with some fresh parsley.1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Either serve in small clay pots or plates or just serve from the skillet on a wooden chopping board. Always serve this dish with a mountain of fresh bread!
