Achiote shrimp, also known as Camarones al Achiote in Spanish, is a delicious Mexican dish that features shrimp marinated and cooked with achiote paste, a red seasoning made from annatto seeds. Here’s some information about it:
History: Achiote has a long history in Mexican cuisine and is believed to have been used by the ancient Mayans and Aztecs. It was traditionally used as a natural dye and flavoring agent. Over time, it became an integral part of Mexican cooking, including the preparation of shrimp dishes.
Components: To prepare Achiote Shrimp, you’ll need the following components:
- Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined.
- Achiote Paste: Achiote paste is the key ingredient, made from ground annatto seeds, spices, and often mixed with vinegar or citrus juice.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds flavor.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice provides a tangy citrus element.
- Salt and Pepper: To season the shrimp.
- Olive Oil: For cooking and marinating.
Steps to Prepare Achiote Shrimp:
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Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, mix the achiote paste, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Coat the shrimp with this marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. You can also marinate it overnight for deeper flavor.
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Skewer the Shrimp: Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, ensuring they’re evenly spaced.
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Grill or Pan-Fry: You have two options for cooking:
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Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the shrimp skewers for 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink and slightly charred.
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Pan-Frying: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add some olive oil, and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re cooked through and have a nice color.
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Serve: Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the heat and serve hot. You can garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
Preparation Time: The total time to prepare Achiote Shrimp depends on the marinating time, but it typically takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour from start to finish, including marination.
Enjoy your Achiote Shrimp, a flavorful and vibrant dish with a rich history in Mexican cuisine!
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Achiote Shrimp:
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 200-250 kcal (depending on serving size and cooking method)
- Protein: 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 2-3 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 0 grams
- Total Fat: 12-15 grams (depending on cooking method)
- Saturated Fat: 2-3 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 9-12 grams
- Cholesterol: 150-200 mg (depending on shrimp size)
- Sodium: 500-600 mg (may vary based on seasoning)
- Potassium: 200-250 mg
- Vitamin C: 10-15% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Iron: 10-15% of the DV
- Calcium: 4-6% of the DV
Health Information:
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High Protein: Achiote Shrimp is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle development and overall health.
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Low in Carbohydrates: This dish is low in carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
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Low in Calories: Achiote Shrimp is relatively low in calories, making it a healthy choice for weight-conscious individuals.
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Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Shrimp provides essential nutrients such as vitamin C, which boosts the immune system, and iron, which is crucial for oxygen transport in the body.
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Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Shrimp contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart-healthy benefits. These fats can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
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Watch Sodium: Depending on the seasoning and achiote paste used, the sodium content can vary. If you are on a low-sodium diet, be mindful of the seasoning and use low-sodium alternatives if needed.
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Cooking Method Matters: The healthiness of the dish can be influenced by the cooking method. Grilling or pan-frying with minimal oil is a healthier choice compared to deep-frying.
Remember that the exact nutritional content can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use. It’s always a good idea to check product labels and adjust your recipe to meet your dietary preferences and requirements.
