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Top view of gambas al ajillo with garlic and parsley in a red skillet

Gambas al Ajillo

literally "Shrimp with Garlic". It is a classic and popular Spanish tapas.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Course Main Course, Snack
Cuisine Spanish
Servings 2 people

Ingredients
  

Main

  • 20 Shrimp Peeled and Deveined Shrimp/Prawns
  • 15 small Scallops Optional
  • 45 g Garlic As desired
  • 150 ml Olive oil Extra virgin (10 Tbsp)
  • 1 Peperoncino Chopped
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • A bit Crushed Red Pepper Flakes As desired
  • A bit Italian Parsley Use the parsley stems for flavor, and mince the leaves
  • Black Pepper To taste

Broth

  • 100 ml Water
  • 1/2 tsp Chicken Stock

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Peel and devein the shrimp, then pat dry to remove any moisture.
  • Wash the small scallops and pat them dry as well.
  • Slice the garlic to a 3mm thickness.
  • Separate the parsley stems and leaves. Keep the stems for flavoring and mince the leaves.
  • Slice 1 peperoncino.

Cooking Instructions

  • In a pan, add 150ml (10 Tbsp) of olive oil, the sliced garlic, peperoncino, and the parsley stems.
  • Turn the heat to low and cook for 4–5 minutes until the garlic turns light golden brown.
  • Once the garlic is cooked, remove the parsley stems.
  • Add the dried shrimp and scallops and cook over medium heat for 3 minutes.
  • Halfway through cooking, add 75ml (5 tablespoons) of stock (broth) and mix thoroughly with the oil.
  • Salt adjustment : Do not add all the salt at once; add 1/2 of the required amount first. After adding the stock, adjust the remaining 1/2 of the salt to your taste.
  • Add the minced parsley and red pepper flakes, sprinkle with black pepper, and finish.
  • Serve with a crusty bread, such as a baguette.

Video

Keyword Garlic, Oliveoil, Shrimp, tapas