This Diablo Shrimp packs a punch with its spicy sauce, featuring garlic, chili, and tomatoes. It’s quick to make and perfect for any seafood lover!
If you love a bit of heat, this dish will spice up your dinner! I enjoy it with rice to soak up all that fiery goodness. Just be ready for a flavor explosion! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best results. If shrimp isn’t available, you can substitute with scallops, chicken, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Olive oil: Extra-virgin olive oil gives great flavor, but any cooking oil like canola or avocado oil will work. Just avoid oils with strong flavors.
Garlic & Onion: Fresh garlic and onion are essential here for depth of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder and onion powder could work as substitutes, though the freshness won’t quite match up.
Crushed tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes are convenient, but you can also use fresh diced tomatoes if they’re in season. Alternatively, tomato sauce can work, but reduce additional liquid if using.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a delicious smokiness, so I suggest sticking with it, but regular paprika is an acceptable alternative. If you’re cautious with heat, start with less cayenne and adjust to your taste.
How Do I Get the Shrimp Just Right?
Cooking shrimp properly is crucial for a great dish. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and chewy, so watch the timing closely. Here’s how to ensure they’re perfect:
- Cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes just 4-6 minutes.
- Stir them gently in the sauce to evenly coat and check for doneness to avoid overcooking.
- Remove from heat as soon as they’re done; they will continue to cook slightly with residual heat.
Don’t forget to squeeze fresh lime juice at the end! It really brightens up the dish and balances the spices beautifully.
How to Make Diablo Shrimp?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1-2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for heat)
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup water or seafood broth
- Juice of half a lime
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Diablo Shrimp recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and easy dinner option! In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a spicy, flavorful dish ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes fragrant and translucent. This creates a flavorful base for your dish.
2. Make the Sauce:
Next, stir in the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes. Add in the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (start with a smaller amount if you’re sensitive to spice), chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken a bit.
3. Add Liquid and Heat:
Pour in the water or seafood broth to the skillet and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. This helps to combine all the flavors together and creates a nice sauce for the shrimp.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Now, it’s time to add the shrimp! Toss them into the skillet and gently stir to coat them well in the diablo sauce. Cook for about 4-6 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
5. Finish with Lime:
Once the shrimp are cooked, squeeze the juice of half a lime over the top and give everything a final stir. The lime juice brightens up the flavors beautifully!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Now, it’s time to serve! Garnish your diablo shrimp with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color and freshness. This dish is best enjoyed hot, with sides like steamed rice, crusty bread, or warm tortillas to soak up the delicious sauce.
Enjoy this easy and fiery Diablo Shrimp! 🌶️
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To do this quickly, place the shrimp in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry with paper towels before adding them to the skillet.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, start with just 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper and taste the sauce before adding more. You can also omit the chili powder or use a milder substitute like paprika. For some heat without the spice, consider adding sliced bell peppers or mild chili peppers instead.
What Can I Substitute for Tomato Products?
If you don’t have crushed tomatoes, you can use tomato sauce or diced fresh tomatoes. Just reduce the amount of water or broth to keep the sauce thick. Alternatively, pureed sun-dried tomatoes can add a different flavor profile while maintaining a similar consistency.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Diablo Shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can overcook the shrimp.
