Shrimp and Rice (Arroz Con Camarones) Recipe: Easy One-Pan Latin Dish

If you’re looking for a vibrant and satisfying meal that is both comforting and bursting with flavor, Shrimp and Rice (Arroz Con Camarones) is the perfect dish. This delightful Latin-inspired recipe brings together tender shrimp, aromatic rice, and a blend of spices to create a dish that is as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or simply craving a hearty meal, this one-pan wonder is sure to impress.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about making Shrimp and Rice (Arroz Con Camarones), from the ingredients to the step-by-step instructions. But that’s not all—this guide also includes helpful tips, variations, and even answers to some frequently asked questions (FAQs) to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

The Essential Ingredients for Shrimp and Rice (Arroz Con Camarones)

To make this dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined – Choose fresh or frozen shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Medium-sized shrimp work perfectly for this dish, but you can also use large shrimp if preferred.
• 1 ½ cups long-grain rice – Long-grain rice such as Basmati or Jasmine rice is ideal because it cooks up fluffy and separate, which is important for this dish.
• 3 cups chicken or seafood broth – Broth adds depth and richness to the rice, infusing it with flavor. Chicken broth is commonly used, but seafood broth works beautifully to complement the shrimp.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped – The onion adds sweetness and a savory base to the dish.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced – A vibrant red bell pepper contributes color and a subtle sweetness.
• 1 green bell pepper, diced – The green pepper adds a slight earthiness to balance the flavors.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is an essential aromatic ingredient that infuses the dish with its signature flavor.
• 1 cup frozen peas – Peas add color, texture, and a touch of sweetness to the dish.
• ¼ cup tomato paste – This gives the dish a rich, savory base and a hint of umami flavor.
• 1 tsp ground cumin – Cumin is a key spice in Latin cuisine, adding warmth and depth to the rice.
• ½ tsp smoked paprika – Smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness and a beautiful red hue to the dish.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning the dish to your liking.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables and shrimp.
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) – Cilantro brings a fresh and herbaceous element to balance the richness of the dish.
• Lime wedges, for serving – The acidity of lime adds a zesty finish that brightens up the flavors.

These ingredients combine to create a well-rounded, flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. The shrimp is tender and succulent, while the rice is seasoned to perfection with the right balance of spices, broth, and tomato paste.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Shrimp and Rice

Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to dive into the preparation process. Follow these simple steps to create your very own Shrimp and Rice (Arroz Con Camarones) dish.

1. Cook the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the pan. Sauté the vegetables until they become soft and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes. This step helps release the natural sweetness and savory flavors of the vegetables, forming a solid flavor base for the rest of the dish.

2. Toast the Rice & Add Flavor

Once the vegetables are softened, stir in the rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toasting the rice in the pan for a couple of minutes helps to enhance its flavor and allows the spices to coat the grains. Next, add the tomato paste and continue cooking for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently to make sure the rice is well-coated with the tomato paste and spices. The tomato paste not only adds flavor but also gives the rice a beautiful reddish color.

3. Simmer the Rice

Now, pour in the chicken or seafood broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover the pan with a lid and let the rice cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. During this time, the rice will absorb the rich flavors from the broth, spices, and tomato paste, becoming perfectly cooked and flavorful.

4. Cook the Shrimp

After the rice has cooked for about 12-13 minutes, it’s time to add the shrimp. Nestle the shrimp into the rice, making sure they are evenly distributed. Add the frozen peas at this stage as well. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. The residual heat from the rice will cook the shrimp perfectly without overcooking them, ensuring they remain tender and juicy.

5. Fluff & Garnish

Once the shrimp is cooked, gently fluff the rice with a fork to combine the shrimp, peas, and rice. This helps to evenly distribute the shrimp and vegetables throughout the rice, creating a cohesive and colorful dish. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness and flavor. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty finish.

Tips for Making the Best Shrimp and Rice

• Use high-quality broth: The broth is essential for flavor, so opt for a good-quality chicken or seafood broth. Homemade broth can be a game-changer for this dish, but store-bought broth works just fine too.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough. Make sure to add them to the pan during the last few minutes of cooking and remove them from the heat once they are pink and opaque.
• Customize the vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as corn, carrots, or peas to suit your taste. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, you can add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dish for some extra spice.

Variations of Shrimp and Rice (Arroz Con Camarones)

While the classic version of Shrimp and Rice is simple and delicious, you can switch up the recipe to make it your own. Here are some variations to try:

Coconut Shrimp and Rice

For a tropical twist, try adding coconut milk to the broth for a creamy, rich flavor. The coconut milk will lend a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.

Shrimp and Rice with Chorizo

If you’re a fan of savory sausage, try adding some chorizo to the mix. The spicy, smoky flavors of the chorizo will complement the shrimp and rice perfectly.

Spicy Shrimp and Rice

If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding some hot sauce or chili flakes to the dish for an extra kick. This variation is perfect for those who love bold, spicy flavors.

FAQs about Shrimp and Rice (Arroz Con Camarones)

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works just as well as fresh shrimp. Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before using them in the recipe.

Q2: Can I substitute the rice?
While long-grain rice is ideal for this dish, you can use other types of rice, such as basmati or jasmine rice. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio according to the type of rice you use.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Shrimp and Rice can be made ahead of time. Simply refrigerate the dish once it has cooled, and reheat it in a pan over medium heat before serving. The flavors will only improve as they sit!

Q4: How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, you can include diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce. Adjust the spice level to suit your preference.

Q5: Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken or seafood broth?
Yes, vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian version of this dish. It will still provide the necessary depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Shrimp and Rice (Arroz Con Camarones) is a flavorful, comforting dish that can easily become a staple in your recipe rotation. With its simple ingredients and one-pan cooking method, it’s a quick and delicious way to bring Latin-inspired flavors to your table. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or just because, this dish is sure to be a hit with everyone.

Enjoy the bright, zesty flavors of shrimp, rice, and spices as you indulge in this vibrant meal. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with a squeeze of lime for the perfect finishing touch!

Enjoy this Shrimp and Rice (Arroz Con Camarones) recipe today and bring a taste of Latin cuisine to your kitchen!

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