Gambas al Ajillo is a delicious and aromatic Spanish dish that can easily be made without wine if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. In this recipe, we’ll substitute the wine with chicken broth or seafood broth, which will add depth and richness to the dish without compromising on flavor. This variation maintains the same vibrant garlic and paprika notes, making it perfect for those looking to enjoy the dish without alcohol.
Ingredients
- Shrimp (or prawns): 500 g (1.1 lbs), peeled and deveined
- Garlic: 4 cloves, thinly sliced
- Olive oil: 4 tablespoons
- Chicken broth or seafood broth: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Bay leaf: 1
- Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (preferably Spanish smoked paprika)
- Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon, mixed with 2 tablespoons of water (optional for thickening)
- Salt: To taste
- Black pepper: To taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional): A pinch for added heat
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps them sear better when cooked. Season the shrimp lightly with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Infuse the Oil with Garlic and Bay Leaf
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and the bay leaf. Cook gently for about 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic becomes fragrant and starts to turn golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will turn bitter.
Step 3: Add the Shrimp
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the skillet. Spread them out in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Let the shrimp cook undisturbed for about 1-2 minutes on one side, allowing them to develop a slight crust.
Step 4: Deglaze with Broth
Once the shrimp start to turn pink, flip them over and add the chicken or seafood broth. This step will deglaze the pan, lifting all the flavorful bits from the bottom. Stir gently and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked through and the broth has reduced slightly, enhancing the flavor of the sauce.
Step 5: Add Paprika and Thicken (Optional)
Sprinkle the smoked paprika over the shrimp and stir well to coat evenly. If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, add the cornstarch mixture and stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly. This step is optional, as some prefer a more liquid sauce for dipping bread.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and discard the bay leaf. Sprinkle the shrimp with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately in the skillet or transfer to a serving dish, accompanied by slices of crusty bread to mop up the sauce.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 portion (approximately 150g)
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 205
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
- Sodium: 520mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 17g
Conclusion
This non-alcoholic version of Gambas al Ajillo retains all the classic flavors of the original dish with the substitution of broth for white wine. The rich garlic and paprika-infused olive oil, combined with tender shrimp, make this dish a perfect choice for any occasion. Serve it hot with crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce, and enjoy the delightful taste of Spanish cuisine without the alcohol. Whether for a quick appetizer or a light meal, this dish is sure to impress with its simplicity and depth of flavor.