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Shrimp Mozambique

Shrimp Mozambique is a Portuguese-inspired dish that delivers bold, spicy flavors in under 30 minutes by combining tender shrimp with a fiery chili-garlic sauce, white wine, and smoked paprika.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Portuguese
Calories: 240

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 pounds large shrimp 16-20 count, peeled and deveined
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 to 3 fresh red chili peppers or 1 to 2 tablespoons chili flakes, depending on heat preference
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for extra heat

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan (12-inch preferred)
  • Sharp chef's knife for mincing garlic and chili
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Cutting board
  • Paper towels for patting shrimp dry

Method
 

  1. Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels and season lightly with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  2. Mince the garlic and slice or chop the fresh chili peppers, removing seeds if less heat is preferred.
  3. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Let the oil shimmer for about one minute.
  4. Add the shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer and cook without moving for 90 seconds to develop a golden crust.
  5. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 60 seconds until pink and just cooked through; then remove the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
  6. Reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic and chopped chili peppers to the same skillet. Stir constantly for about 60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  7. Pour in 1/2 cup dry white wine and add 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, stirring to combine. Let the wine reduce by half, about 2 to 3 minutes.
  8. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce. Add 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes if extra heat is desired, stirring for 30 seconds to warm through.
  9. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
  10. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Serve over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread. Do not overcook the shrimp, as they continue cooking after removal from heat.