Shrimp Mozambique is a vibrant and flavorful dish rooted in Portuguese cuisine, characterized by succulent shrimp simmered in a zesty saffron and garlic sauce. This quick and easy recipe brings a taste of Portugal to your table, perfect for a delightful dinner experience.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons butter
• ¼ cup finely chopped onion
• 8 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• ½ cup water
• 2 (1.41 ounce) packages sazon seasoning with saffron
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• ½ (12 ounce) bottle beer
• 2 teaspoons hot sauce (such as Tabasco), or to taste
• 1 pound uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

Directions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and sauté until slightly golden, approximately 5 minutes.
2. Build the Sauce: Incorporate finely chopped garlic, water, sazon seasoning with saffron, lemon juice, salt, and ground black pepper into the saucepan. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
3. Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in beer and hot sauce, bringing the mixture to a boil.
4. Cook Shrimp: Introduce the peeled and deveined shrimp to the boiling sauce. Cook until the shrimp turn bright pink and opaque, about 3 minutes.
5. Serve: Once cooked, remove from heat and serve the Shrimp Mozambique over rice or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 227
• Total Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 203mg
• Sodium: 3385mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 7g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 20g

The History of Shrimp Mozambique

Although the name suggests a direct connection to Mozambique, this dish is actually a Portuguese creation that incorporates African and European flavors. Mozambique was a Portuguese colony from the 1500s until 1975, and during this period, Portuguese settlers and traders brought their culinary traditions to the region while also adopting local spices and cooking techniques.

Saffron, garlic, and piri-piri (a type of African chili pepper) became common in Portuguese-African cuisine. When Portuguese immigrants later moved to the United States, particularly to areas such as Massachusetts and Rhode Island, they brought these flavors with them. Over time, the dish evolved, often using locally available ingredients such as beer and hot sauce in place of traditional African spices.

Today, Shrimp Mozambique is a beloved dish in Portuguese-American households and is frequently found on the menus of Portuguese restaurants in the U.S. It remains a celebration of the cultural blending between Portugal and its former colonies, offering a taste of history in every bite.

Why Shrimp Mozambique is So Popular

There are several reasons why Shrimp Mozambique continues to be a favorite among seafood lovers and home cooks alike:

• Quick and Easy to Make: Despite its bold flavors, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight meals or last-minute dinner parties.
• Rich and Flavorful Sauce: The golden sauce, infused with saffron, garlic, lemon, and beer, is the true star of this dish. It’s perfect for soaking up with bread or rice.
• A Great Way to Enjoy Shrimp: Shrimp is a lean and nutritious protein, and this recipe highlights its natural sweetness while adding a punch of spice and zest.
• Versatile Pairings: Shrimp Mozambique pairs well with various sides, from rice and potatoes to steamed vegetables and fresh salads.
• A Taste of Portuguese Culture: This dish offers a unique opportunity to explore the flavors of Portuguese cuisine, even if you’ve never tried it before.

Variations of Shrimp Mozambique

Like many traditional dishes, Shrimp Mozambique has several variations depending on the region and personal preferences. Here are some popular adaptations:

• Spicy Shrimp Mozambique: Some variations use piri-piri or extra hot sauce to add more heat to the dish. Adjust the spice level to your liking for an extra kick.
• Creamy Shrimp Mozambique: Some chefs add a touch of heavy cream or coconut milk to the sauce for a richer, creamier texture.
• Seafood Mozambique: Instead of using only shrimp, some versions of this dish incorporate scallops, clams, or even lobster for a more luxurious meal.
• Vegetarian Mozambique: While traditionally a seafood dish, some plant-based versions use mushrooms or tofu as a substitute for shrimp, keeping the bold flavors intact.
• Lighter Shrimp Mozambique: For a healthier take, some recipes reduce the amount of butter or replace it with olive oil while maintaining the dish’s signature flavors.

Tips for Making the Best Shrimp Mozambique

To achieve the best flavor and texture in Shrimp Mozambique, consider these expert cooking tips:

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh, high-quality shrimp will make a noticeable difference in the dish. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
• Sauté the Garlic Gently: Garlic should be cooked just until fragrant to avoid bitterness. Burning it can negatively affect the overall taste.
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if left in the sauce for too long. Remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Let the Sauce Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer for a few minutes before adding the shrimp helps develop deeper flavors.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of hot sauce or omit it altogether. If you like heat, add extra spice with chili flakes or cayenne pepper.

Best Ways to Serve Shrimp Mozambique

Shrimp Mozambique is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• Over Rice: The most common way to enjoy Shrimp Mozambique is over a bed of white or saffron rice, which absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
• With Crusty Bread: A loaf of crusty Portuguese bread or baguette is perfect for dipping into the rich sauce.
• With Fried Potatoes: Many Portuguese restaurants serve Shrimp Mozambique with crispy, golden fried potatoes, which provide a satisfying contrast to the saucy shrimp.
• As a Pasta Dish: Some variations toss the shrimp and sauce with linguine or fettuccine for a delicious seafood pasta.
• In a Sandwich: For a unique twist, serve the shrimp and sauce in a toasted sandwich roll for a Portuguese-style shrimp sub.

Pairing Shrimp Mozambique with Drinks

The bold flavors of Shrimp Mozambique pair well with a variety of beverages:

• White Wine: A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Vinho Verde complements the garlic and lemon flavors.
• Portuguese Beer: A cold Portuguese lager, such as Sagres or Super Bock, enhances the dish’s spiciness and richness.
• Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing non-alcoholic option that cleanses the palate between bites.
• Citrus Cocktails: A citrus-based cocktail, like a margarita or a caipirinha, complements the tangy elements of the dish.

How to Store and Reheat Shrimp Mozambique

If you have leftovers, proper storage and reheating will help maintain the dish’s quality:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Warm the shrimp and sauce gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
• Freezing: While shrimp can be frozen, the sauce may lose some of its richness when thawed. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh for optimal flavor.

Conclusion

Shrimp Mozambique is a dish that beautifully blends Portuguese and African culinary traditions, offering a vibrant and flavorful seafood experience. With its golden saffron-infused sauce, tender shrimp, and rich garlic-butter base, this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to explore Portuguese cuisine. Whether you serve it with rice, crusty bread, or potatoes, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.