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Jamaican Pepper Shrimp Recipe
A Street Food Classic

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jamaica_parishes_st_elizabeth_shrimpJamaican Pepper Shrimp Recipe | Pepper Shrimps from Middle Quarters St. Elizabeth

By Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer

Jamaican street food is quite unique, however, our pepper shrimp is in a league of it's own. It's one of our most classic street foods and one my favourites.

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What makes the our pepper shrimp special? Well, the secret lies in the artful balance of flavours – the heat of Scotch bonnet peppers, the aromatic embrace of thyme and garlic, and the golden hue provided by annatto powder. Each bite is a sensory explosion, a symphony of spice that lingers on your taste buds, leaving you craving for more.

Another aspect of this dish that makes it stand out is the Annatto. Annatto powder, derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, not only adds a delightful colour to the Pepper Shrimp but also brings a subtle nutty taste to the dish. Beyond its culinary uses, annatto has a rich history in our Jamaican and Caribbean culture. It was traditionally used by indigenous peoples for body paint, textiles, and culinary purposes. 

One of the charming aspects of enjoying Pepper Shrimp in Jamaica is the interactive experience of peeling the shrimp. As you peel away the spicy exterior, you will reveal the succulent, tender flesh inside. But guess what? Peeling these shrimps aren't a must, you can just break the head off and take a bit. Don't dare to try this if you can't handle the heat though, because while the peeled shrimp does pack a punch, with the shell on you will be gulping down milk to cool the fire in your mouth. 

Wondering where you can get the best pepper shrimp? While you can get pepper shrimp pretty much anywhere, from any street vendor, you won't find it in many restaurants. Middle Quarters in St. Elizabeth is said to have the best pepper shrimp on the island.

Before we jump into the recipe, the annatto does something special to this dish, without it, it is not quite the same. However, you can still try this recipe even if you can't get your hands on some annatto, your shrimp will turn out spicy and delicious just the same. 

Jamaican Pepper Shrimp Recipe

INGREDIENTS

  • Fresh Scotch bonnet peppers (adjust according to your heat preference)
  • Shrimp
  • Onion
  • Thyme
  • Garlic
  • Oil
  • Salt
  • Annatto powder
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Allspice berries
  • Vinegar


PROCEDURE

  1. Prepare the Scotch Bonnet Peppers: Wearing latex gloves, handle the Scotch bonnet peppers based on your spice tolerance. For intense heat, chop or slice the peppers, including seeds and white pith. For a milder version, remove seeds and stems, then chop or leave whole.

  2. Marinate the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, Scotch bonnet peppers, chopped onion, thyme, minced garlic, oil , salt, annatto powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix everything well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld.

  3. Prepare the Aromatic Base: In a stainless-steel skillet, pour the water from the vegetable marinade. Add allspice berries and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Cover and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavours to infuse.

  4. Cook the Shrimp: After the aromatic base has simmered, add vinegar and reduce the heat to medium-low. Place the marinated shrimp in the skillet in a single layer. Cover and cook for 2 minutes until the shrimp turns opaque. Uncover, stir gently, and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked through.

  5. Season and Serve: Adjust the seasoning with salt if needed. Transfer the flavorful shrimp to a serving plate and let them cool slightly.

Now, you're all set to enjoy this delectable Jamaican Pepper Shrimp, a true Jamaican street food classic, in the comfort of your home. Of course you can also grab our ebook for some more delicious recipes for Jamaican dishes. 

Before you go, check out the video below of how they prepare pepper shrimp in Middle Quarters, you may pick up a few tips and tricks.

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Return to Jamaican Street Food from Jamaican Pepper Shrimp Recipe | A Street Food Classic 
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References & Sources For Jamaican Pepper Shrimp Recipe | A Street Food Classic

  1. Jamaican Pepper Shrimp Packs a Fiery Punch. (2023, November 3). Serious Eats. https://www.seriouseats.com/jamaican-pepper-shrimp

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