Easy Shrimp Gambas al Ajillo (Chef Baek’s Recipe)
Easy Shrimp Gambas al Ajillo (Chef Baek’s Recipe)
Perfect for guest gatherings, home parties, and wine pairings! Learn how to make Spanish Gambas al Ajillo easily with frozen shrimp and olive oil.
Experience the authentic taste of Spain with this simple Gambas al Ajillo recipe by Chef Baek Jong-won, perfect for making at home. It’s an ideal wine accompaniment or a stunning dish for your next home party!
Ingredients- 10-15 Shrimp (If using frozen shrimp, thaw and pat dry)
- 180ml Olive Oil (Extra virgin olive oil recommended)
- 15 cloves Garlic (Minced or thinly sliced)
- 6 Cherry Tomatoes (Washed and halved)
- 5 Dried Red Chilies or Peperoncino (Adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/5 tsp Salt
- Pinch of Black Pepper (for garnish)
- Pinch of Parsley Flakes (for garnish)
- Baguette or sliced bread (for serving)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely in cold or running water. Once thawed, drain them well and rinse. For the garlic, either mince it using the side of your knife or slice it thinly. This preparation helps the garlic flavor infuse beautifully into the olive oil.
Step 2
Wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Remove the stems and cut them in half. The natural sweetness of the tomatoes will add a subtle depth of flavor to the dish.
Step 3
Prepare a deep pan or a small clay pot. Pour in a generous amount of 180ml olive oil. Add the prepared sliced garlic, dried red chilies (or peperoncino), and 1/5 tsp of salt. Turn the heat to medium-low and gently heat the oil, allowing the garlic to release its aroma without burning. Cook until the garlic turns a light golden brown. This step is crucial for developing the characteristic garlic-infused oil, so be patient and let it simmer.
Step 4
Once the garlic oil has developed a rich aroma and a light golden hue, add the prepared shrimp and halved cherry tomatoes to the pan. Keep the heat on medium-low and cook until the shrimp are plump and pink. The shrimp will turn opaque and vibrant red when cooked through. The cherry tomatoes will soften slightly, releasing their sweetness.
Step 5
You can enhance your Gambas al Ajillo with additional vegetables if you like. Add 5-6 blanched broccoli florets to the pan while the gambas are simmering. Feel free to include other favorite vegetables like asparagus or mushrooms for a more varied and colorful dish.
Step 6
When everything is perfectly cooked, transfer the Gambas al Ajillo to a serving dish. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper and parsley flakes for an appealing look and added flavor. Serve immediately with warm, toasted baguette slices or crusty bread, perfect for dipping into the flavorful olive oil. You’ll definitely want to have extra bread for soaking up every last drop!
