How to Make Mexican Seafood with Charred Peppers
Mexican seafood dishes are known for their vibrant flavors and use of fresh ingredients. Among the diverse offerings, one delightful combination is Mexican seafood paired with charred peppers. This dish not only satisfies the palate but also provides a visual feast. Follow this guide to create a mouthwatering experience right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of shrimp, cleaned and deveined
- 1 pound of scallops
- 2 large bell peppers (red or green)
- 2 poblano peppers
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Char the Peppers
Begin by charring the bell and poblano peppers. You can do this directly over an open flame on your stovetop or grill. Place the peppers on high heat and turn them occasionally until the skin is blistered and blackened. This process should take about 8-10 minutes. Once charred, transfer them to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap to trap the steam. After about 10 minutes, peel off the charred skin, remove the seeds, and chop the peppers into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the Seafood
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, ensuring the garlic doesn’t burn. Add the shrimp and scallops to the skillet, seasoning with cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook the seafood until it's opaque and fully cooked, about 4-5 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the seafood is cooked, add the charred peppers back into the skillet. Squeeze in the juice of the limes, mixing everything thoroughly to combine the flavors. Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes so that the seafood absorbs the taste of the peppers and lime.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is heated through and well mixed, remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the dish to a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. This vibrant dish pairs beautifully with warm tortillas or a side of cilantro lime rice.
Tips for Enhancing Flavor
- For added depth, consider marinating the seafood in lime juice and spices for an hour before cooking.
- Add diced tomatoes or corn to the sauté for a more colorful dish.
- If you enjoy heat, incorporate sliced jalapeños during cooking.
This Mexican seafood with charred peppers is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an excellent choice for a family dinner or entertaining guests. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it also offers a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine that will surely impress.