If you’re looking to spice up your shrimp dishes with bold flavors, this recipe for Shrimp with Harissa Sauce is perfect! Harissa, a fiery North African chili paste, brings depth, smokiness, and spice to this simple yet delicious dish. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make it.
Ingredients:
For this recipe, you’ll need the following:
- 1 lb (450g) of large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tbsp of harissa paste (you can adjust the amount depending on your spice preference)
- 3 tbsp of olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon (for marinade and serving)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Yogurt or tahini sauce (optional for serving)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Start by cleaning and deveining your shrimp if they aren’t pre-prepared. Rinse them well under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Having dry shrimp helps them cook better and absorb the marinade.
2. Make the Harissa Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine harissa paste, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, lemon juice (half of it), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until the marinade is smooth and all ingredients are incorporated.
3. Marinate the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the bowl with the harissa marinade, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to let the flavors infuse.
4. Cook the Shrimp
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated shrimp in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches if your pan is small). Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, with a slight char from the harissa.
5. Finish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the heat. Squeeze the remaining lemon juice over them for a fresh burst of flavor. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. For extra creaminess, serve with a dollop of yogurt or tahini sauce on the side.
Tips:
- Adjust the spice level: Harissa paste can vary in spiciness depending on the brand. If you prefer milder heat, start with 1 tablespoon and adjust to taste.
- Serving suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with couscous, quinoa, or even a fresh salad for a light meal. You can also serve it with flatbread for scooping up the sauce.
Enjoy your flavorful and spicy shrimp!