A pleasant crunch from a deep-fried tortilla is combined with the richness of fish in a dish called seafood chimichangas.
This Seafood Chimichanga recipe is perfect for seafood lovers who crave a Mexican-inspired dish with a unique twist.
We’ll walk you through the steps of making a delectable seafood chimichanga recipe that will impress your family and guests in this post.
Seafood Chimichanga Recipe
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: Approximately 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: Approximately 20 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes
- Yield: This seafood chimichanga recipe yields 4 servings.
Ingredients
To make seafood chimichangas, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of assorted seafood (such as shrimp, crab, or fish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as Monterey Jack or cheddar)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro
Preparation
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to prepare your ingredients and follow these steps:
Step 1: Selecting Fresh Seafood
When choosing seafood for your chimichanga, opt for fresh and high-quality options. Look for vibrant colors, a firm texture, and a mild oceanic smell. If possible, buy from a trusted fish market or seafood counter.
Step 2: Preparing The Seafood
Clean the seafood thoroughly under cold running water and pat it dry with a paper towel. If using larger fish fillets, cut them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This will ensure that the seafood cooks evenly and fits nicely inside the tortillas.
Step 3: Sautéing The Aromatics
Over medium heat, warm the olive oil in a skillet. Add the chopped bell pepper, jalapeo pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become soft and fragrant, usually around 5 minutes.
Step 4: Cooking The Seafood
Add the cooked seafood to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, paprika, chili powder, and ground cumin. The seafood should be cooked for about 5-7 minutes, or until it turns opaque and is thoroughly cooked. Be careful not to overcook it, as seafood can become tough and rubbery.
Cooking
Now that you have prepared the ingredients, it’s time to cook your seafood chimichangas. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Assembling The Chimichangas
Lay out the flour tortillas on a clean surface. Divide the cooked seafood mixture equally among the tortillas, placing it in the center. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the seafood.
Step 2: Folding The Tortillas
Fold the sides of each tortilla towards the center, covering the seafood filling. Then, roll the tortilla tightly from the bottom, enclosing the filling completely.
Step 3: Frying The Chimichangas
In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil to approximately 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the chimichangas, seam-side down, into the hot oil. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy, usually for about 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 4: Draining And Cooling
Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the chimichangas from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. This will help remove any excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Serving
Seafood chimichangas are best enjoyed fresh and hot. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve the chimichangas with a side of sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and freshly chopped cilantro. These toppings complement the flavors of the seafood and add a refreshing element to the dish.
- Accompany the chimichangas with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete and satisfying meal.
- For added freshness and crunch, serve the chimichangas with a side of mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette.
Variations
Feel free to customize your seafood chimichanga recipe with these variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the seafood with grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Season them with Mexican spices for a flavorful vegetarian alternative.
- Spicy Twist: If you prefer a spicier chimichanga, add a few hot sauce dashes or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the seafood filling.
- Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different types of cheese to add a unique twist to your chimichangas. Try using pepper jack cheese for an extra kick or crumbled queso fresco for a milder flavor.
Health Benefits
Seafood chimichangas can be a nutritious addition to your diet. Seafood is a great source of lean protein, essential vitamins, and minerals. Here are some health benefits associated with seafood chimichangas:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Seafood is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function.
- Protein: Seafood is an excellent source of high-quality protein essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Low In Saturated Fat: Seafood is generally low in saturated fat, making it a healthier alternative to other protein sources.
- Vitamins And Minerals: Seafood is packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamin D, vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium, which play vital roles in maintaining overall health.
Conclusion
Seafood chimichangas offer a delightful twist to traditional Mexican cuisine. With their crispy exterior and succulent seafood filling, they are sure to impress your taste buds.
Following this recipe’s simple steps, you can create a homemade seafood chimichanga recipe that will become a family favorite. So, don your aprons and get ready to enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of this delicious feast!
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