How to Make Camarones a la Diabla Recipe (Deviled Shrimp)

Camarones a la Diabla, or Mexican Deviled Shrimp, is a fiery and flavorful dish that’s perfect for spice lovers. This classic Mexican recipe combines succulent shrimp with a spicy, smoky, and tangy chili sauce that’s sure to impress your taste buds. In this post, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to make Camarones a la Diabla, share tips to perfect the dish, and suggest delightful pairings to enhance your meal.

Ingredients

To make this mouthwatering recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Sauce:

• 4 dried guajillo chilies
• 4 dried chile de árbol (adjust for desired spice level)
• 2 medium Roma tomatoes
• 1 small white onion, roughly chopped
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon vinegar (optional, for tanginess)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges

Instructions to Make Camarones a la Diabla

Step 1: Prepare the Chili Sauce

1. Rehydrate the Chilies: Remove the stems and seeds from the guajillo and chile de árbol. Place them in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for 10 minutes until softened.
2. Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine the soaked chilies, tomatoes, onion, garlic, and a bit of the soaking water. Blend until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve for a silky texture.
3. Cook the Sauce: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Pour in the chili mixture and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt, pepper, and vinegar, if using. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet.

Step 3: Combine Shrimp with Sauce

1. Lower the heat to medium and pour the prepared chili sauce into the skillet.
2. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
3. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Tips for Making the Best Camarones a la Diabla

1. Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the number of chile de árbol or substitute with a milder chili like pasilla.
2. Use Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh, large shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Frozen shrimp can also work, but thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
3. Balance the Flavors: If the sauce is too spicy, add a touch of sugar or a splash of cream for a balanced flavor. This variation is often called CamaronesCremosos a la Diabla.
4. Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the shrimp right after cooking to preserve their tenderness and the sauce’s vibrant flavors.

What to Serve with Camarones a la Diabla

Camarones a la Diabla pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:

1. Rice: A side of Mexican rice or simple steamed white rice helps to balance the heat.
2. Tortillas: Warm corn or flour tortillas are perfect for scooping up the shrimp and sauce.
3. Beans: Serve with refried beans or black beans for added heartiness.
4. Salad: A crisp green salad with a lime vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast.

For similar spicy and flavorful dishes, check out our Fried Rice on Blackstone Recipe or Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt Recipe.

Variations of Camarones a la Diabla

1. Camarones Cremosos a la Diabla: For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or Mexican crema to the sauce. This softens the heat and provides a rich, velvety texture that’s indulgent yet still spicy.
2. Vegetarian Option: Replace the shrimp with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or even tofu. Mushrooms, in particular, absorb the flavors of the sauce beautifully and add a meaty texture.
3. Seafood Mix: Enhance this dish with a mix of seafood like scallops, mussels, or chunks of firm white fish. The combination creates a seafood medley that’s perfect for special occasions or family dinners.
4. Spicy Fusion: Add a touch of soy sauce and grated ginger to the chili sauce for a Mexican-Asian fusion twist. This variation adds depth and complexity to the traditional flavors.
5. Milder Version for Kids: Substitute chile de árbol with sweet bell peppers for a non-spicy, family-friendly alternative. The sweet peppers add color and a touch of natural sweetness without the heat.
6. Grilled Camarones a la Diabla: Instead of sautéing the shrimp, grill them for a smoky flavor that complements the spicy sauce. Serve the sauce on the side as a dip or drizzle.

FAQs While Making Camarones a la Diabla

Can I make the sauce in advance?
Yes, the chili sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Camarones a la Diabla in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Can I freeze this dish?
It’s best to freeze the sauce separately. Shrimp can become rubbery when frozen and reheated.

What if I don’t have a blender?
You can use a food processor or finely chop and mash the ingredients manually for a rustic sauce.

How can I tone down the spiciness?
If the dish is too spicy, add a touch of sugar, a dollop of sour cream, or extra tomatoes to mellow the heat.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, ensure that the spices and vinegar you use are certified gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat the shrimp and sauce gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the shrimp’s tender texture and preserve the sauce’s flavor.

Substitutes

1. Chilies: Substitute guajillo chilies with ancho chilies for a slightly sweeter flavor. Use cayenne pepper in place of chile de árbol for heat.
2. Shrimp: Replace shrimp with chicken, tofu, or even hearty vegetables like cauliflower.
3. Vinegar: Lime juice or apple cider vinegar can be used as an alternative to regular vinegar.

Nutrition of Camarones a la Diabla

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Vitamin A: 20% DV
• Vitamin C: 30% DV

This dish is a high-protein, low-carb meal that’s packed with bold flavors and nutrients.

Now that you know how to make Camarones a la Diabla, give this recipe a try and enjoy its delightful spiciness. Don’t forget to explore our other recipes like Nutella Puff Pastry Recipe for dessert ideas or Air Fryer Italian Sausage Recipe for a savory treat. Happy cooking!

Camarones a la Diabla | Deviled Shrimp

Serves: 4 Prep Time: 5 Minutes Cooking Time: 10 Minutes 10 Minutes

Nutrition facts: 250 calories 12 Grams fat

Rating: 5.0/5

( 1 voted )

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Ingredients

To make this mouthwatering recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Sauce:

• 4 dried guajillo chilies
• 4 dried chile de árbol (adjust for desired spice level)
• 2 medium Roma tomatoes
• 1 small white onion, roughly chopped
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon vinegar (optional, for tanginess)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges

Instructions

instruction to make Camarones a la Diabla Recipe (Deviled Shrimp)

Step 1: Prepare the Chili Sauce

1. Rehydrate the Chilies: Remove the stems and seeds from the guajillo and chile de árbol. Place them in a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for 10 minutes until softened.
2. Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine the soaked chilies, tomatoes, onion, garlic, and a bit of the soaking water. Blend until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve for a silky texture.
3. Cook the Sauce: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Pour in the chili mixture and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt, pepper, and vinegar, if using. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet.

Step 3: Combine Shrimp with Sauce

1. Lower the heat to medium and pour the prepared chili sauce into the skillet.
2. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
3. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

Tips for Making the Best Camarones a la Diabla

1. Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the number of chile de árbol or substitute with a milder chili like pasilla.
2. Use Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh, large shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Frozen shrimp can also work, but thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
3. Balance the Flavors: If the sauce is too spicy, add a touch of sugar or a splash of cream for a balanced flavor. This variation is often called CamaronesCremosos a la Diabla.
4. Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the shrimp right after cooking to preserve their tenderness and the sauce’s vibrant flavors.