Spicy Mexican Dinner Camarones Empanizados

If you're craving a flavorful and zesty meal, look no further than **Camarones Empanizados**, a delightful Mexican dish that features crispy breaded shrimp. This dish is not only enticing to the palate but also fairly simple to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Let's dive into the ingredients and steps to create this spicy Mexican dinner!

Ingredients

To make **Camarones Empanizados**, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Lime wedges for serving
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Preparation Steps

Follow these simple steps to prepare mouthwatering **Camarones Empanizados**:

  1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine the shrimp with garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let the shrimp marinate for about 15-20 minutes to absorb all the delicious flavors.
  2. Prepare the Breading Station: In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs until they are well beaten. Finally, in a third bowl, add the breadcrumbs.
  3. Bread the Shrimp: Dip each marinated shrimp first into the flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Make sure each shrimp is fully covered for maximum crunch.
  4. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when it sizzles when a breadcrumb is dropped into it.
  5. Fry the Shrimp: In batches, carefully add the breaded shrimp to the hot oil, taking care not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Remove the shrimp and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your **Camarones Empanizados** with fresh lime wedges and a sprinkle of cilantro for garnish. These crispy shrimp can be paired with a variety of accompaniments such as:

  • Spicy salsa or guacamole
  • Mexican rice or quinoa salad
  • Chili-lime corn on the cob
  • Tortillas for a delightful taco experience

Conclusion

**Camarones Empanizados** is a fantastic representation of Mexican cuisine that combines spice, crunch, and ocean-fresh flavors. This dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, bringing a taste of Mexico to your dinner table. Don’t hesitate to explore variations by adding your favorite spices or sides. Enjoy your spicy Mexican dinner!