Mexican Grilled Aguachile Shrimp

Introduction

This Mexican Grilled Aguachile Shrimp recipe brings a smoky twist to the traditional dish by first searing the shrimp on the Arteflame grill for a rich, caramelized exterior before marinating in a vibrant lime and chili sauce. The result is an irresistible blend of smoky and zesty flavors that will impress at any cookout.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 limes, juiced
• 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the grill and stack firewood over them.
3. Light the napkins and let the fire build for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the shrimp

1. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel.
2. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and chili flakes.

Step 3: Sear the shrimp

1. Place a tablespoon of butter on the flat cooktop griddle.
2. Sear the shrimp on the center grill grate for about 30-45 seconds per side until lightly charred.
3. Move the shrimp to the flat cooktop to cook through for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Remove the shrimp when they hit 120°F internal temperature (they will continue cooking off the grill).

Step 4: Make the aguachile marinade

1. In a bowl, combine lime juice, sliced jalapeño, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Stir well and let the flavors meld for a few minutes.

Step 5: Assemble the dish

1. Add the cooked shrimp to the aguachile mixture.
2. Gently toss and let marinate for 5 minutes.
3. Arrange cucumber slices on a platter and top with the marinated shrimp.

Tips

• For extra smokiness, use mesquite or hickory wood in the Arteflame grill.
• Adjust the heat zones of the cooktop by moving shrimp closer or further from the center grill grate.
• Let the shrimp marinate at least 5 minutes, but no longer than 10, to avoid over-marinating.

Variations

1. Spicy Habanero: Replace the jalapeño with a finely chopped habanero for a fiery kick.
2. Citrus Twist: Add grapefruit or orange juice to the marinade for a sweet citrus balance.
3. Garlic Butter: Toss the shrimp in melted garlic butter before serving for extra richness.
4. Avocado Aguachile: Blend an avocado into the marinade for a creamy variation.
5. Mango Fusion: Add diced mango to the mix for a sweet and spicy combination.

Conclusion

Mexican Grilled Aguachile Shrimp is a perfect blend of smoky, citrusy, and spicy flavors. Prepared on the Arteflame grill, the shrimp develop an incredible sear that enhances the dish’s vibrant flavors. Try this for your next cookout and impress your guests with this delicious grilled twist on a classic Mexican dish!

Best pairings

• Mexican street corn (Elote) grilled on the flat cooktop.
• Fresh tortilla chips and guacamole.
• A cold cerveza or a refreshing margarita.
• Warm corn tortillas for shrimp tacos.