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Easy Shrimp Mozambique

Shruthi
Easy Shrimp Mozambique is a quick and flavorful seafood dish inspired by Portuguese-American cooking.
Features tender shrimp coated in a rich garlic-butter sauce.
Combines lemon juice, paprika, and chili for a zesty, mildly spicy flavor.
Uses simple ingredients that are easy to find.
Takes approximately 25 minutes from preparation to serving.
Pairs beautifully with rice, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables.
Makes an excellent appetizer, lunch, or satisfying dinner.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine Portuguese-American inspired
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ pounds (680 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 6 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika, preferably sweet or smoked
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, or to taste
  • ½ cup (120 ml) seafood stock or chicken broth
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) dry white wine, optional; substitute additional stock if preferred
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest, optional
  • ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions
 

  • If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely in the refrigerator or under cold running water. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
    Season lightly with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Set aside while you prepare the sauce ingredients.
  • Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter.
    Allow the butter to melt gently. The combination of olive oil and butter adds richness while helping the sauce develop its savory flavor.
  • Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for approximately 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant.
    Avoid browning the garlic too deeply because burnt garlic can make the sauce bitter.
  • Stir in the paprika, red pepper flakes, and optional cayenne pepper. Cook for about 20–30 seconds to release their aroma into the butter.
    Adjust the amount of chili according to your preferred spice level
  • Pour in the seafood stock and, if using, the white wine. Stir well, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the skillet.
    Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to combine. If you prefer not to use alcohol, simply replace the wine with additional stock.
  • Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for approximately 2–3 minutes on the first side, then turn and cook for another 1–2 minutes, depending on their size.
    The shrimp are ready when they turn opaque and pink and curl into a loose C shape. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can quickly become tough and rubbery.
  • Reduce the heat to low. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, fresh lemon juice, and optional lemon zest.
    Stir gently until the butter melts and the sauce becomes glossy. Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, lemon juice, or chili as needed.
  • Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped parsley. The fresh herbs brighten the rich garlic-butter sauce and make the finished dish look appetizing.
  • Transfer the shrimp and sauce to a warm serving bowl. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges.
    Serve over steamed white rice, alongside crusty bread, or with roasted potatoes. Make sure to spoon plenty of the flavorful sauce over the shrimp and your chosen side dish.

Notes

  • Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp: Both work well, but remove excess moisture before cooking.
  • Choose large shrimp: Large shrimp are easier to cook evenly and remain juicy when prepared correctly.
  • Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic creates the distinctive aroma of the sauce.
  • Control the spice level: Adjust the red pepper flakes and cayenne to suit your preference.
  • Don't overcook the shrimp: Remove them from the heat as soon as they turn opaque and are cooked through.
  • Use good-quality butter: Butter provides richness and helps create a silky sauce.
  • Add lemon near the end: Fresh lemon juice balances the buttery flavor without overwhelming the dish.
  • Serve with the sauce: The flavorful cooking liquid is an essential part of Shrimp Mozambique, so don't leave it behind in the skillet.
Keyword Easy Shrimp Dinner Recipe, Easy Shrimp Mozambique, garlic butter shrimp, Portuguese Shrimp Recipe, Portuguese-American Seafood Recipe, Spicy Shrimp Mozambique Sauce