Description
Experience the bold and fiery flavors of Jamaican Spicy ‘Pepper’ Shrimp, a vibrant dish featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a zesty sauce infused with Scotch bonnet peppers, ginger, allspice, and lime. Perfectly balanced with a touch of sweetness and savory soy sauce, this quick and easy skillet dish brings the authentic taste of Jamaican cuisine to your table in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Sauce
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Scotch bonnet peppers, seeds removed and finely chopped (adjust based on heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon allspice (pimento)
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme, dried or fresh
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/2 cup water or seafood broth
- Salt to taste
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare aromatics: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and grated fresh ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the mixture softens and releases its fragrant aroma.
- Add spices and peppers: Stir in the chopped Scotch bonnet peppers (adjust amount to your heat preference), allspice, thyme, ground black pepper, and brown sugar. Cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to bloom and meld together.
- Cook shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp start to turn pink and become opaque.
- Add liquids and simmer: Pour in the soy sauce, freshly squeezed lime juice, and water or seafood broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Allow the shrimp to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, ensuring they are fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly. Taste and season with salt as needed.
- Finish and serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve the spicy shrimp hot alongside rice, bread, or a fresh salad to complement the vibrant flavors.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of Scotch bonnet peppers according to your tolerance for heat; these peppers are very spicy.
- Substitute water with seafood broth for a richer flavor.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best brightness and acidity.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- For a milder version, use a less spicy pepper like jalapeño or omit seeds completely.
