Cuban Mojo Shrimp is a zesty dish that brings a burst of flavor with its garlic, citrus, and spices. This tasty shrimp dish is perfect for a quick dinner or fun get-togethers!
What’s great is how easy it is to make! Just marinate the shrimp while you sip on a drink, and then cook them up in no time. Happy cooking and eating! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled and deveined shrimp make the best choice for this dish. If you prefer, frozen shrimp works well too – just thaw them first. You could even substitute chicken if you’re not a shrimp fan.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the dish. You can swap it for avocado oil or even coconut oil for a different flavor. Each will give a unique twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a strong flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. I do suggest fresh for the best taste. About 1 teaspoon of powder equals a clove of garlic.
Citrus Juice: Use fresh lime and orange juice for the best flavor. Bottled juice can work, but may lack the brightness. If you’re out of oranges, lemon juice can be a tangy alternative.
Spices: Ground cumin and oregano are vital for that Cuban flavor, while smoked paprika adds a lovely depth. If you’d like more spice, consider cayenne instead of red pepper flakes, but adjust to your heat preference.
How Do I Get the Shrimp Cooked Just Right?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky since they cook quickly! Here are some tips to ensure they’re perfectly done:
- Marinate the shrimp for at least 15-20 minutes to absorb the mojo flavors, but not too long to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- When cooking, preheat your skillet so the shrimp sear nicely. This keeps them juicy while adding a nice crunch.
- Watch closely; they only need about 2-3 minutes per side. When they’re pink and opaque, they’re ready!
By using these techniques, you’ll have shrimp that are tender and bursting with flavor. Enjoy your cooking! 🌟
How to Make Cuban Mojo Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 small orange)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep time and about 10 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and easy—perfect for a weeknight dinner! Plus, the shrimp needs to marinate for 15-20 minutes, so keep that in mind when planning your meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Mojo Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh lime juice, fresh orange juice, ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed to create a delicious mojo marinade.
2. Marinate the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss gently to coat each shrimp evenly. Allow the shrimp to marinate for at least 15-20 minutes at room temperature. If you have more time, you can let it marinate for up to 1 hour in the refrigerator for an even bolder flavor.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot, add the shrimp along with all of the marinade. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn a lovely pink color and are opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat, and transfer the shrimp and sauce to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. For a full meal, serve the Cuban Mojo Shrimp over quinoa, rice, or alongside some crusty bread to soak up that flavorful sauce.
Enjoy this bright, garlicky seafood dish inspired by Cuban cuisine!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to completely thaw them before marinating. You can do this by placing the frozen shrimp in a sealed bag and submerging it in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before adding them to the marinade.
What Can I Substitute for the Citrus Juices?
If you don’t have fresh limes or oranges, you can substitute with bottled juices, but fresh is always best for flavor! You can also use lemon juice as an alternative, which gives a nice tang to the dish.
How Do I Store Leftover Mojo Shrimp?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, do so gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them in the skillet before adding the shrimp to ensure they cook properly.
