Jamaican Pepper Shrimp

This peel and eat shrimp is usually sold on the roadside in Jamaica. It’s packed a spicy kick thanks to scotch bonnet pepper. Driving around in Jamaica you can find the spicy crustaceans known as peppered shrimp or pepper shrimp sold in snack sized plastic bags on the side of the street. “Pepper swims” as the locals call it, is a bright red color and is prepared with the head and shell on to preserve the rich flavor. Makes a great appetizer or high protein snack. 

Growing up, we didn't get to eat this much as shrimp was quite pricey, but if you have ever been a tourist in Jamaica, you have probably tried this as the locals will try to sell it to you or you might have it in a resort restaurant. 

When was the last time you had some Real HOT!!!  Peppa Shrimp? Why not try this recipe. 

INGREDIENTS: 3 lbs shrimp, in shell 

2 garlic cloves 1 cup vegetable oil 1 tsp salt 2 scotch bonnet peppers 1  ½ tbsp vinegar 1 pinch allspice / ground pimento (optional) 

INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Mince the garlic and pepper

2. On medium heat, warm garlic, oil, salt and peppers in a dutch oven.

3. Add shrimps and crushed pimento to the mixture and stir constantly for 2 – 3 minutes.

4. Add vinegar and continue to stir for a further 2-3 minutes.

5. Serve warm or cold. 

6. ENJOY! 

SIDE NOTES:

• SHRIMPS are very easy to cook so this recipe should take no more then 6 minutes 

• The seeds of the pepper are the hottest part so remove if you want to reduce the heat without reducing the flavor.