- Heavy cream (for a rich and smooth chowder consistency)
- Milk (optional, to enhance the creamy texture)
- Cheddar cheese (grated, for topping and serving)
- Worcestershire sauce (to boost flavor)
- Fish stock (vegetarian option: vegetable stock)
- Olive oil (for sautéing vegetables)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Thyme or other herbs (optional, for additional seasoning)
Incorporating these ingredients will help you create a delicious chupe de camaron, perfect for any seafood lover. Use these keywords to optimize your recipe content for search engines, ensuring more visibility for your dish online.
Steps
### Chupe de Camarones (Shrimp Chowder Cheese): A Delicious Seafood Delight
Looking to impress your guests with a hearty and flavorful chupe de camarones? This traditional Venezuelan dish is both comforting and rich in flavor. Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious shrimp chowder cheese that's perfect for any special occasion.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 cup (75g) celery stalks, diced
- 1 small green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 2 cups (480ml) vegetable broth or water
- 1 can (14.5oz/410g) whole peeled tomatoes, drained
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving
#### Instructions:
**Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp**
1. Rinse the shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Set aside a couple of large shrimp to use as garnish later.
**Step 2: Sauté Vegetables**
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 8-10 minutes.
**Step 3: Make the Broth Base**
1. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to bring out its flavor.
2. Pour in vegetable broth (or water) and bring it to a boil.
3. Add whole tomatoes, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 15 minutes.
**Step 4: Create the Chowder**
1. In a separate bowl, mix flour with a little bit of cold liquid (from Step 3).
2. Gradually stir this mixture into the broth base while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Bring the chupe back to a simmer and cook for another 5 minutes.
**Step 5: Cook the Shrimp**
1. Add the shrimp to the pot, cooking just until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Remove from heat once the shrimp are cooked through but still slightly firm.
**Step 6: Thicken with Cream and Serve**
1. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half, then simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
**Step 7: Assemble and Enjoy**
1. Ladle chupe into bowls.
2. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with reserved shrimp and chopped cilantro.
3. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a refreshing touch.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a rich, flavorful, and authentic chupe de camarones that will surely delight your taste buds! Enjoy this dish as part of a Venezuelan meal or serve it as a special treat during any celebration.