Simple Shrimp Aglio e Olio with Korean Chili Peppers
Make Delicious Gambas That Pair Perfectly with Wine
This recipe presents a ‘Gamaba’ (shrimp and garlic dish) made with Korean chili peppers (Cheongyang and red chilies) instead of typical Italian peperoncino. It’s a perfect dish for those living alone and seeking a flavorful yet easy meal. Enjoy a delightful culinary experience that pairs wonderfully with a glass of wine.
Ingredients- 20 shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 10 cloves garlic
- 1 red chili pepper
- 1 Cheongyang chili pepper (a type of Korean green chili)
- 1.5 cups olive oil (approx. 300ml)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- A pinch of black pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, thinly slice the garlic cloves into rounds. Aim for about 2-3mm thickness. Slicing them thinly will help release their fragrant flavor into the olive oil effectively.
Step 2
Next, prepare the chili peppers. Remove the stems from both the red chili and the Cheongyang chili, then wash them. Slice them thinly into strips. You can adjust the amount of Cheongyang chili based on your preference for spiciness; feel free to add more if you enjoy a spicier kick.
Step 3
Ensure the shrimp are completely dry. Pat them thoroughly with paper towels to remove all excess moisture. This step is crucial to prevent oil splattering and to ensure the shrimp cook nicely without steaming.
Step 4
Once the shrimp are dry, season them with 1 teaspoon of salt and a pinch of black pepper. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes. This brief marination will enhance the natural sweetness and flavor of the shrimp.
Step 5
Now, let’s start cooking! Pour 1.5 cups of olive oil into a skillet or a small, oven-safe pan. Using a smaller pan will help concentrate the flavors.
Step 6
Place the pan over medium-low heat. Once the olive oil is warm, add the sliced garlic and the prepared chili peppers. Let them gently simmer and infuse the oil.
Step 7
Allow the garlic and chilies to gently bubble in the oil for about 5 more minutes after they start simmering. This slow cooking process is key to drawing out the maximum flavor and aroma from the garlic and chilies into the olive oil, creating a richer base for your Gambas. Be watchful to prevent the garlic from burning.
Step 8
As the fragrant aroma of garlic begins to fill your kitchen, carefully add the marinated shrimp to the pan. Arrange them in a single layer as much as possible so they cook evenly.
Step 9
Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. You can adjust the seasoning with a little more salt and pepper if needed. Your delicious Gambas are ready when the shrimp are plump and opaque. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping!
Step 10
Enjoy your homemade Gambas!
