Devilled shrimp (camarones a la diabla) – 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: 4 servings
Mexico Servings: 4 servingsDevilled Shrimp, or Camarones a la Diabla, is a fiery Mexican seafood dish known for its bold flavors and tantalizing heat. Traditionally hailing from the coastal regions of Mexico, this dish is loved for its succulent shrimp bathed in a vibrant, spicy sauce made with chiles and tomatoes. It captures the essence of Mexican cuisine with its ability to blend heat with the sweetness of shrimp, offering a taste that is both robust and harmonious.
Ingredients
- large shrimp (peeled and deveined) – 1 lb / 450 g
- dried guajillo chiles (stemmed and seeded) – 4
- dried arbol chiles (stemmed and seeded) – 2
- tomatoes – 2 medium / 300 g
- white onion (chopped) – 1 medium / 150 g
- garlic cloves – 3
- olive oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- salt – to taste
- lime juice – from 1 lime
- fresh cilantro (chopped) – 2 tbsp / 8 g
- water – 1 cup / 240 ml
Instructions
- Soak the guajillo and arbol chiles in hot water for 10 minutes until softened.
- In a blender, combine the soaked chiles, tomatoes, onion, garlic, and 1/2 cup water to form a smooth puree.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the puree and cook for 10 minutes until thickened, adjusting the salt to taste.
- Add the shrimp to the sauce, stirring to coat well. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until shrimp are cooked through and pink.
- Squeeze lime juice over the shrimp and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Substitutions
- dried guajillo chiles -> ancho chiles
- dried arbol chiles -> cayenne powder
- fresh cilantro -> fresh parsley
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Roast the tomatoes and garlic before blending for a deeper flavor.
- Marinate the shrimp with lime juice, salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for added flavor.
- Serve with warm tortillas or Mexican rice to complement the dish.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
