I love everything with shrimp in it.

Whether it’s grilled, curried, or sautéed, shrimp always delivers delicious flavor in no time. One of my all-time favorites is Trinidad Pepper Shrimp.

This quick and spicy dish is packed with bold Caribbean flavors and makes for a perfect appetizer or side dish.

If you enjoy a little heat and the zesty tang of fresh herbs, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

What is Trinidadian Pepper Shrimp?

Trinidadian Pepper Shrimp is a fiery, savory dish made with shrimp, hot peppers, and a medley of spices and aromatics.

This dish is about bold flavors, featuring Scotch bonnet peppers (or habaneros) for heat and pimento peppers for sweetness.

Combined with ginger, garlic, and fresh herbs like cilantro or culantro (locally called “chadon beni”), the dish is a true taste of Trinidad.

Unlike other shrimp recipes, this dish is stir-fried quickly, ensuring the shrimp stays tender while absorbing all the spices and oils.

Trinidad Pepper Shrimp is perfect for seafood lovers who crave a spicy kick and enjoy authentic Caribbean cuisine.

Ingredients for Trinidad Pepper Shrimp

1 tbsp vegetable oil
2 tbsp sesame oil
1 tbsp garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger, grated
1 lb shrimp: Deveined and head removed.
½ large onion: Chopped.
2 pimento peppers: Chopped for mild sweetness.
1 Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper: Chopped for heat.
½ tsp each of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder: To season the shrimp.
¼ cup culantro (or cilantro): Chopped for freshness.

How to Make Trinidad Pepper Shrimp

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

Start by seasoning the shrimp with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss until evenly coated and let it sit while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

In a wok or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sesame oil for a nutty, aromatic base.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped onion, pimento peppers, and Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add the seasoned shrimp to the wok and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes. The shrimp will turn pink and cook quickly.

Step 5: Add Herbs and Serve

Finally, toss in the chopped cilantro or culantro (chadon beni). Cook for another 30 to 45 seconds, allowing the herbs to release their flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to make: The dish comes together in under 15 minutes.
Packed with flavor: A perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and freshness.
Versatile: Great as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.

Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Freezer: It’s not recommended to freeze cooked shrimp in this dish, as reheating may make the shrimp rubbery and lose its fresh flavor.

Meal Prep Tip: You can marinate the shrimp ahead of time and store it raw in the refrigerator for up to a day. Cook fresh when ready to serve.

What to Eat with Trinidad Pepper Shrimp

Trinidad Pepper Shrimp is versatile and pairs well with many dishes. Here are some serving ideas:

Rice: Serve with steamed jasmine rice, coconut rice, or fried rice for a complete meal.
Noodles: Add the shrimp to stir-fried noodles or plain ramen for an Asian-Caribbean fusion.
Appetizer: Serve on its own as a finger food for parties.
Bread: Pair with crusty bread or rotis to soak up the flavorful sauce.

FAQs About Trinidad Pepper Shrimp

1. Is Trinidad Pepper Shrimp very spicy?
Yes, this dish has a good amount of heat from the Scotch bonnet or habanero pepper. You can adjust the spice level by reducing or omitting the hot pepper if desired.

2. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely. Thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking.

3. What if I can’t find culantro?
Culantro has a distinct flavor, but cilantro is an excellent substitute. You can also use parsley for a milder taste.

4. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots would complement the shrimp nicely. Add them during the sautéing step.

5. Is sesame oil necessary?
Sesame oil adds a rich, nutty flavor, but you can replace it with more vegetable oil if needed.

Trinidad Pepper Shrimp is a flavorful dish that brings the heat and Caribbean charm to your table. It’s quick, easy, and endlessly versatile, making it a go-to recipe for seafood lovers.

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