Shrimp & Squash Delight

Imagine this: tender shrimp bathed in a vibrant curry coconut sauce, nestled next to melt-in-your-mouth squash and sweet bursts of red pepper. It’s not just a meal, it’s a fiesta! This Panamanian recipe is ready in 30 minutes and bursting with flavor. So grab your spices and get ready to transport your taste buds to the tropics!

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 squash, sliced
• Onion, chopped
• Red pepper, chopped
• 32 oz. shrimp
• Garlic, chopped
• 1/3 cup curry powder
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 8 oz. tomato sauce (basil, garlic, oregano)
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons salt

DIRECTIONS:

First, in medium skillet, add onions, garlic and red pepper to 2 tablespoons oil on medium heat. Next, add 2 tablespoons lemon juice.

Then, add 8 oz. tomato sauce and 2 tablespoons salt. Mix all ingredients well.

Next, add squash. Then, add 1/3 cup curry powder. While mixing ingredients, add 2 cups water.

Lastly, add 32 oz. shrimp. Mix all ingredients well, then serve.

Selecting the Right Shrimp for Your Recipe

When choosing shrimp for any recipe, the size, freshness, and source are critical factors that significantly impact the flavor and texture of your dish. Shrimp are sold by size and counted by the number per pound; for instance, “16/20” denotes 16 to 20 shrimp per pound, indicating a large size. For recipes requiring a prominent shrimp presence, such as stir-fries, salads, or grilling, opting for larger sizes like jumbo or large is preferable as they are meatier and more visually appealing. Conversely, for dishes like soups or curries, medium or smaller sizes blend well. Freshness is paramount—fresh shrimp should have a clean sea breeze aroma, firm bodies, and a glossy appearance without any signs of discoloration or drying at the edges.

Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp

Understanding the difference between fresh and frozen shrimp can also guide your selection process. While fresh shrimp may seem like the superior choice, high-quality frozen shrimp can be equally good or sometimes even better, given that they are often flash-frozen shortly after being caught, locking in freshness and flavor. If opting for frozen shrimp, look for packages free from ice crystals or frost, which can indicate they have been stored for a long time or thawed and refrozen. When choosing fresh shrimp, assess their smell and appearance; they should smell clean, not fishy, and their shells should be intact. Whether you choose fresh or frozen, ensure the shrimp have not been treated with chemicals like sodium tripolyphosphate, a preservative that can affect their texture and taste.

Sustainability and Preparation

Finally, considering the sustainability of the shrimp you purchase is essential, as shrimp farming and harvesting can have significant environmental impacts. Look for certifications such as MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) or ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) on the packaging, which indicate sustainable practices. Additionally, decide whether you prefer shrimp with shells on or off—shells can add flavor to dishes like seafood broths or can be used to make stock, but peeled and deveined shrimp offer convenience for quick cooking recipes. Tail-on shrimp are excellent for presentations where you desire a more elegant look. By taking into account the size, freshness, source, and sustainability of the shrimp you select, you can ensure your dish is not only delicious but also responsibly prepared.

Understanding Curry Powder

Curry powder, a blend of spices that originated from the Indian subcontinent, has become a staple ingredient in many kitchens worldwide. It typically includes turmeric, coriander, cumin, fenugreek, and chili peppers, among other spices, which collectively contribute to its vibrant color and complex flavor profile. Choosing the right curry powder is crucial as it can significantly influence the taste and authenticity of your dish. When selecting curry powder, it’s essential to first consider the dish you are preparing since the intensity and flavor profile can vary widely among different blends.

Types of Curry Powder

There are several types of curry powder available, each suited to different culinary needs. Mild curry powders are perfect for those who prefer a subtler flavor without too much heat, making them ideal for dishes like curried soups or sauces. Medium curry powders offer a balanced mix of spices with a moderate level of heat, suitable for general cooking purposes. Hot curry powders, on the other hand, are designed for those who enjoy spicy foods and want to add a significant kick to their dishes. Additionally, there are specialized regional blends, such as Madras curry powder, which is typically hotter and offers a distinctive taste characteristic of South Indian cuisine. Understanding these variations is key to choosing a curry powder that matches your flavor preferences and the requirements of the recipe.

Quality and Freshness

The quality and freshness of curry powder play a pivotal role in the flavor it imparts to dishes. High-quality curry powders are made from freshly ground spices, offering a more potent and aromatic flavor than their pre-ground counterparts. When purchasing curry powder, look for brands that have a good reputation for quality and check the packaging date to ensure freshness. Store curry powder in a cool, dark place to preserve its flavor and aroma. If possible, consider buying small quantities from stores that sell spices in bulk, allowing you to experiment with different blends and ensure the spice mix is always fresh. Remember, the fresher the curry powder, the more vibrant and flavorful your dish will be.

By keeping these points in mind—considering the type of dish, understanding the heat level and flavor profile of different curry powders, and prioritizing quality and freshness—you can choose the best curry powder to elevate your culinary creations.