Appetizers
Camarão Grelhado (Grilled Garlic Shrimp)
Ingredients
- - Large shrimp, shell-on — 500 g (1.1 lb)
- - Garlic, minced — 4 cloves (4 cloves)
- - Lime juice — 2 tbsp (2 tbsp)
- - Olive oil — 3 tbsp (3 tbsp)
- - Fresh chilli, finely chopped (optional) — 1 (1)
- - Salt — 1/2 tsp (1/2 tsp)
- - Fresh parsley, chopped — 1 tbsp (1 tbsp)
Method
- Combine garlic, lime juice, olive oil, chilli and salt in a bowl.
- Toss the shrimp in the marinade and set aside for 15–20 minutes.
- Heat a grill or griddle pan until very hot.
- Grill the shrimp for 2 minutes per side, until pink and lightly charred.
- Scatter with parsley and serve immediately with extra lime wedges.
Introduction: Simple grilled shrimp, seasoned generously with garlic and lime, reflect the everyday abundance of the Atlantic around the islands.
Cultural Background: Simple grilled shrimp, seasoned generously with garlic and lime, reflect the everyday abundance of the Atlantic around the islands. Served as a starter at gatherings or from small roadside grills, they are eaten with fingers, shells and all.
Tips: Don't marinate longer than 30 minutes — the lime juice will start to 'cook' the shrimp and make them mushy. Cook over high, direct heat for the shortest possible time to keep the shrimp juicy.
Variations: Skewer the shrimp for easier grilling. Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade. No authentic vegetarian version exists for this shellfish-defined dish.
Storage: Best eaten immediately; leftovers keep refrigerated for 1 day.
Reheating: Reheat briefly in a hot pan for 1 minute per side; avoid the microwave, which toughens shrimp.
Nutrition: Approx. 150 kcal, 20 g protein, 2 g carbohydrate, 7 g fat per serving.
FAQs:
Q: Should I peel the shrimp first?
A: Shell-on is traditional and keeps the shrimp juicier, but peeled shrimp work fine and cook slightly faster.
Q: Can I make this indoors without a grill?
A: Yes, a very hot griddle pan or heavy skillet gives a similar result. SEO Keywords camarao grelhado, cape verdean grilled shrimp, crioulo appetizer Image Prompt Charred garlic shrimp piled on a wooden board with lime wedges and a scatter of chopped parsley, smoky grill marks visible.