Camarones el mojo de ajo – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Mexico Servings: Serves 4
Mexico Servings: Serves 4Camarones al Mojo de Ajo is a flavorful Mexican seafood dish that showcases the vibrant tastes of the coastlines. Originating from coastal regions like Veracruz and Nayarit, this dish highlights plump shrimp cooked to perfection in a bath of garlic-infused olive oil and butter, finished with a hint of citrus zest. It’s traditionally served with fluffy rice or crusty bread to soak up the aromatic sauce. Each bite offers a wonderful balance of succulence from the shrimp and the bold yet comforting presence of garlic and smooth butter, making it a beloved staple in Mexican seafood cuisine.
Ingredients
- Shrimp (large, peeled and deveined) – 1.5 lbs / 680 g
- Garlic cloves (finely minced) – 10 cloves
- Olive oil – 1/4 cup / 60 ml
- Butter – 4 tbsp / 56 g
- Lemon juice – 3 tbsp / 45 ml
- Salt – 1 tsp / 5 g
- Black pepper – 1/2 tsp / 2.5 g
- Parsley (chopped) – 1/4 cup / 15 g
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 2 minutes.
- Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt, mixing it with the garlic to infuse the oil.
- Carefully add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Sauté the shrimp until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley, mixing to coat the shrimp evenly.
- Serve immediately with rice or crusty bread.
Substitutions
- Olive oil -> Avocado oil
- Butter -> Vegan butter
- Parsley -> Cilantro
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Marinate the shrimp in lemon juice and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Serve with a squeeze of lime juice for added freshness.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
