Name: Creamy Shrimp Poblano
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 poblano peppers, charred; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 medium onion, roughly chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 lb. medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup Mexican crema or sour cream; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped; 1/2 cup shredded Manchego cheese

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Creamy Shrimp Poblano

Creamy Shrimp Poblano is a delightful dish that will captivate your taste buds and warm your soul. This vibrant recipe, bursting with flavors and textures, features tender shrimp enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce highlighted by the smokiness of roasted poblano peppers. Each flavorful bite transports you to a sunny Mexican locale, making it an ideal choice for dinner parties or quick weeknight meals. With its easy prep and minimal ingredients, you’ll find that this dish is not only delectable but also incredibly rewarding to make.

The combination of fresh shrimp, creamy sauces, and charming poblano peppers creates an irresistible dish that’s simply worth making. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, Creamy Shrimp Poblano will definitely impress, transform mealtime into a joyous occasion, and leave everyone wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the main reasons to adore this Creamy Shrimp Poblano recipe is its simplicity and speed. The easy prep means you can whip up a delicious meal in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The family-friendly nature of this dish means it’s suitable for both adults and kids alike, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys it. With its minimal ingredient list, you won’t need to make countless trips to the grocery store, allowing you to create a flavorful dish effortlessly.

From the smoky, roasted poblano peppers to the tender shrimp coated in a luscious cream sauce, your taste buds will go on a delightful journey. Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair wonderfully with your choice of pasta or rice, making it a beloved staple for every home cook.

Ingredients for Creamy Shrimp Poblano

To make this delicious Creamy Shrimp Poblano, you’ll need the following ingredients, each chosen to enhance the delectable flavors of this dish:

4 poblano peppers, charred for a smoky flavor
1 tablespoon butter for richness
1 tablespoon vegetable oil for sautéing
1 medium onion, roughly chopped for sweetness
2 garlic cloves, minced for aromatic depth
1 lb. medium shrimp, peeled and deveined for tenderness
1 cup Mexican crema or sour cream, creating a creamy texture
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped for freshness
1/2 cup shredded Manchego cheese for a cheesy finish

These ingredients are easy to find and promise to deliver an inspiring meal right at your table.

Step-by-Step Directions

Prepare the Poblanos: Start by heating a comal (or grill) over high heat. Place the poblano peppers on the hot surface, roasting them while turning occasionally until they are completely blistered and charred. Once done, transfer the peppers into a plastic bag and cover them, letting them sit for about 10 minutes. This will make peeling them easy! After the peppers have steamed, peel the skins off, deseed, and slice them into strips.

Cook the Base: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil and butter over medium-high heat until the butter melts. Add the chopped onions, sautéing them until they become transparent—this should take about 2-3 minutes. Once the onions are ready, incorporate the roasted poblano strips and minced garlic into the skillet, cooking everything together for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Shrimp and Season: Now it’s time to introduce the star of the dish—the shrimp! Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, a sign they are perfectly cooked. Next, mix in the Mexican crema (or sour cream) along with 1/3 of the chopped cilantro. Don’t forget to season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for 8-10 minutes to meld all the flavors together.

Serve: To present your Creamy Shrimp Poblano, spoon the flavorful shrimp mixture over your choice of pasta or rice. For the finishing touch, garnish generously with the remaining cilantro and shredded Manchego cheese, adding a delightful visual and flavor contrast.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Creamy Shrimp Poblano, here are some additional tips and tricks. For a little extra spice, consider adding sliced jalapeños either during the cooking of the base or as a garnish. You can also switch out the Manchego cheese for a different variety, such as Monterey Jack or Halloumi cheese, depending on your preference.

If you’re looking to cut down on calories, consider using light versions of crema or sour cream without compromising taste. Additionally, watch the sauté step closely to avoid overcooking the shrimp; they should only be cooked until they turn pink. You can also use pre-cooked shrimp to save time!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Creamy Shrimp Poblano pairs wonderfully with various sides, creating a complete meal that will satisfy your cravings. Serving it over fluffy white rice or al dente pasta helps absorb the creamy sauce, making every bite perfect.

Consider adding a fresh salad on the side, such as a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lime juice, to create a refreshing balance. For beverages, consider serving iced tea or sparkling water with a splash of citrus for a vibrant touch that complements the meal.

Nutritional Information

While enjoying Creamy Shrimp Poblano, you can also be mindful of its nutritional benefits. Per serving, this dish contains approximately 500 calories, making it an indulgent yet manageable option for a delightful meal. The dish not only provides a source of protein through the shrimp but also delivers vitamins and minerals from the poblanos and cilantro.

Remember, if you’re conscious about healthy eating, watching portion sizes or serving this dish with a light side can help maintain balanced nutrition while relishing your culinary creation.

Storing Tips & Variations for Creamy Shrimp Poblano

If you find yourself with leftovers, you can store Creamy Shrimp Poblano in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, make sure to do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to prevent overcooking the shrimp.

For a creative twist, consider making a sheet-pan version of this dish by roasting the poblano and shrimp together with seasonings before tossing everything in the creamy sauce. You could even substitute the shrimp with chicken or vegetables for a delightful variation that caters to different tastes.

Conclusion for Creamy Shrimp Poblano

Creamy Shrimp Poblano is your ticket to an unforgettable culinary experience. Its combination of flavors and textures creates a dish that is both comforting and exciting. With its easy preparation and rich, savory taste, this recipe is calling your name! Don’t hesitate to try it out; your taste buds will thank you as you savor every delicious bite.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking to achieve the best texture.

2. Is there a vegetarian version of Creamy Shrimp Poblano?
Yes! You can easily substitute shrimp with mushrooms or other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, for a satisfying vegetarian dish.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?
To amp up the heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper while cooking the shrimp.

4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
For the best taste, it’s recommended to cook and serve it fresh. However, you can chop vegetables ahead of time for quicker assembly.

5. What sides pair well with Creamy Shrimp Poblano?
Fluffy rice, garlic bread, or a fresh salad make excellent companions to this creamy dish, rounding out your meal beautifully.