There’s something truly satisfying about the combination of succulent, buttery shrimp and crispy cassava fries. This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Cassava Fries recipe brings together the bold flavors of the Caribbean with a touch of indulgence. The shrimp are seared to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce, delivering a burst of savory goodness in every bite. The cassava fries, a beloved Caribbean side dish, are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering the perfect contrast to the shrimp. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or an impressive dish for guests, this recipe hits the spot.
Cassava, also known as yuca, is a starchy root vegetable that is a staple in many Caribbean and Latin American dishes. It has a mild flavor and a slightly sweet, nutty taste, which makes it an excellent substitute for traditional potato fries. In this recipe, cassava is cut into thick fries, boiled until tender, and then baked to a crispy perfection. Paired with shrimp that have been cooked in a luscious garlic butter sauce, this meal is full of texture and flavor. It’s a great way to bring a Caribbean twist to a classic seafood dish while celebrating the simplicity of fresh ingredients.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
For the Cassava Fries:
- 2 large cassava (yuca) roots, peeled and cut into thick fries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cassava Fries: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cut the cassava into thick fries, similar to steak-cut fries. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the cassava pieces. Boil the cassava for about 10-12 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Drain the cassava and let it cool slightly.
- Season and Bake the Cassava Fries: Once the cassava is cool enough to handle, toss the fries with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the fries are crispy and golden brown on the outside.
- Cook the Garlic Butter Shrimp: While the fries are baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Add Lemon and Herbs: Once the shrimp are cooked through, stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Toss the shrimp in the garlic butter sauce to coat them evenly.
- Serve: Serve the garlic butter shrimp hot, with the crispy cassava fries on the side. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and lemon wedges for squeezing over the shrimp.
This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Cassava Fries is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The garlicky, buttery shrimp are rich and delicious, while the cassava fries offer a crispy, satisfying bite. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner but also elegant enough to serve when you want to impress. Whether you’re familiar with cassava or trying it for the first time, this recipe brings a Caribbean twist to a seafood favorite that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
