The Unique Argentinian Shrimp: Recipes and Mouthwatering Ideas

it’s equally as delicious. A bit of garlic, herbs, and olive oil, and you’d be tasting something incredible. Preparing Argentine shrimp means trying sweet and tender food from Patagonia for an unforgettable occasion. 

Want to know how to prepare Argentinian shrimp? Have a look at my top 3 Argentinian shrimp recipes, prepared with my personal touch. 

Top 3 Argentinian Shrimp Recipes

Argentinian red shrimp are different from ordinary shrimp. They are famous for their unparalleled sweetness and soft texture, harvested from the waters of Patagonia. With a rich flavor, almost like lobster, these crustaceans have become part of Argentine food culture and are well-known worldwide.

1. Grilled Garlic and Herb Shrimp Skewers

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Argentinian red shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Coarse sea salt

Start by: 

1. Combine garlic, parsley, olive oil, and lemon juice in a bowl. 
2. Let the shrimp lounge for half an hour in this juice.  
3. Put the shrimp on a grill, keeping a little distance between each piece so they cook evenly.
4. Grill at medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes per side. 
5. Shrimp are done perfectly when they turn pink and curl at the ends. To ensure safety and texture, the internal temperature should reach a high of about 145 °F.

2. Argentinian Shrimp Ceviche

This dish is summer in a bowl – fresh, bright, and irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Argentinian red shrimp, very finely chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 1 red onion, finely diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• Fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste

The secret to this preparation is in the lime juice. 

1. Combine chopped shrimp with lime juice and let it “cook” for 15-20 minutes. 
2. The acid transforms the shrimp’s texture, turning it opaque and tender. 
3. Mix in diced vegetables, garnish with cilantro, and chill. 
4. Serve with crisp tortilla chips or with a fresh salad!

3. Shrimp Empanadas

The ultimate Argentine street food meets seafood perfection.

Filling:

• 1 pound Argentinian red shrimp, chopped
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup white wine
• Fresh herbs
• Empanada dough (store-bought or homemade)

Follow these steps to craft the perfect empanada: 

1. Sauté onions and garlic, add chopped shrimp and white wine. 
2. Cook until just tender. 
3. Let the mixture cool before filling empanada dough. 
4. Seal edges carefully – a classic Argentine crimp (repulgue) not only looks beautiful but keeps all those delicious juices inside.

Tips from Argentine Asado for Buying and Preparing Argentinian Shrimp

Selecting the perfect Argentinian shrimp is an art form that begins with understanding quality markers. The best shrimp showcases a bright, uniform coloration without dark spots, featuring firm shells and a clean ocean aroma. Professional seafood experts recommend seeking wild-caught Patagonian varieties with the most authentic flavor.

Tips for Purchasing

When purchasing, focus on freshness as your primary criterion. Fresh shrimp should have a pristine appearance, consistent size, and minimal ice crystals. For frozen options, choose individually quick-frozen (IQF) packages that maintain optimal quality. Store fresh shrimp in the coldest part of your refrigerator and use within 1-2 days of purchase.

How to Thaw

Proper thawing is crucial to maintaining shrimp quality. Always defrost slowly in the refrigerator, allowing 8-12 hours for a complete and even thaw. Avoid room temperature thawing, which can compromise texture and promote bacterial growth.

How to Clean Argentinian Shrimp

Cleaning requires a delicate touch: 

• Remove the head and shell carefully, using a small paring knife to devein. 
• Rinse under cold water and pat completely dry before cooking. 

This preparation ensures the most authentic Argentine experience.

How to Marinate & Cook

Marinating transforms good shrimp into extraordinary dishes. Traditional Argentine techniques aim at a maximum of two hours of marination using olive oil, fresh herbs, and garlic: 

• Be cautious with acidic marinades; they can begin “cooking” the shrimp if left too long. 
• Salt should be added just before cooking to prevent moisture loss.
• When cooking, medium-high heat works best, with a cooking time of 2-3 minutes per side. 
• Watch out for shrimp turning pink and curling slightly, indicating perfect doneness. 
• The internal temperature should reach 145°F, ensuring both safety and optimal texture.

Clean utensils and keep separate cutting boards for raw and cooked seafood. Wash hands thoroughly and refrigerate leftovers within two hours /since this is the maximum time allowed outside the fridge for safety). Ready to try the best Argentinian shrimp? Whether grilled or prepared in ceviche or empanadas, you won’t regret trying out these delicious Argentine recipes.

FAQs

What to serve with Argentinian shrimp?

Pair Argentinian shrimp with chimichurri sauce, grilled vegetables, cilantro-lime rice, or crusty bread. They’re delicious when prepared with garlic, olive oil, and herbs. Consider serving alongside a fresh salad or as part of a paella, highlighting its sweet, delicate flavor and tender texture.

What is special about Argentinian shrimp?

Argentinian shrimp, harvested from the cold waters of Patagonia, are renowned for their exceptional sweetness, firm texture, and vibrant red color. They’re larger and more flavorful than many other shrimp varieties, with a rich, almost lobster-like taste that makes them a prized seafood delicacy.

Argentinian red shrimp vs langostino: what’s the difference?

Argentinian red shrimp are marine prawns with a distinctive red shell, while langostinos are actually more like lobster meat – smaller, with a different shape and texture. Red shrimp are larger, sweeter, and typically more expensive, whereas langostinos have a more delicate, slightly different flavor profile.

Can you eat Argentinian shrimp raw?

While technically possible, eating raw Argentinian shrimp is not recommended due to potential parasites and bacteria. Always cook thoroughly to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure food safety. For the best and safest experience, grill, sauté, or boil these delicious shrimp before consuming.

Summary

Article Name

The Unique Argentinian Shrimp: Recipes and Mouthwatering Ideas

Description

Discover the rich flavors of Argentinian shrimp with our recipes and ideas. From traditional Argentine asado twists to unique seafood pairings with this premium shrimp!

Author

Jason Pittock

Publisher Name

Argentine Asado