The culture of the towns is nuanced with aspects that the identity of the corresponding place transfers to it. One of the identifying aspects are culinary customs, particularly in Mexico, one of these aspects is the pleasure of pampering the palate with a snack outside of the most important meals.
In Mexico it is called a snack, which in other countries is called, pasa palos, tapa or bocadillo. The dried shrimp snack it is used to stave off hunger before the main meal planned for a particular gathering. A sauce called batanera is commonly used to season the dried shrimp.
The snacks with their spiciness and slightly exaggerated salt were used by the bartenders to order more drinks in order to refresh the mouth and throat. Forming part of those snacks for sure, among them was the dried shrimp snack with its spicy sauce.
Dried shrimp are usually sun-dried and in the drying process the flavors of the shrimp are concentrated. They are used in snacks by frying them in a sauce with the favorite condiments of the person who makes them and they are also used to prepare other exquisite dishes.
History of the dried shrimp snack
It is claimed that the word botana was originally used to refer to the plug used in the leather boots that were used to contain the wine. Then came the habit of placing a slice of sausage or bread on top of a glass of a drink, among other things, until finally the snacks that are consumed while having a drink are called snacks.
In Mexico, snacks were commonly used, among which was the dried shrimp snack, to alleviate hunger in hairdressers and canteens of the past. Now they are consumed in restaurants and at home to taste a wine, a tequila or another drink.
Since ancient times, in Mexico and in other cultures, snacks, raisins, sticks, sandwiches, or whatever you want to call them, have been used to open your mouth. In this way, preventing the drink from taking effect early, while waiting for the main meal of the corresponding celebration. Among the snacks used for this purpose is frequently the dried shrimp snack for its peculiar flavor highly appreciated by Mexicans.
Undoubtedly the Spanish conquerors also contributed to the spread of snacks in Mexico. In Spain it is affirmed that the custom of using "tapas" was born in Andalusia. They are mentioned in the work of Don Quixote de la mancha by Cervantes. In the establishments of the conquering Spaniards, frequently attended by them, they were constituted as gathering centers for the men of the time, where snacks were tasted.
Dried shrimp snack recipe
Ingredients
1 kg of dried shrimp
2 dried red chiles
Half a kg of onion
1 kg of tomato
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Half a liter of oil
Preparation
- Carefully clean the chiles, removing the veins and seeds, leave them in hot water until they soften. Finally strain them.
- Chop the onion, fry it and let it turn a dark golden color.
- Roast the tomato on a griddle or in the oven.
- The legs and head are removed from the dry shrimp, leaving the tail in order to grab them by it, nor are they peeled. Reserve.
- Blend the onions, roasted tomato and red chiles, season and cook over low heat. Fry and then add the reserved dried shrimp. Continue frying over low heat.
- Finally, let them rest so that the flavors integrate even more.
- Done, it's a matter of serving and tasting them.
- You can accompany them with a container with your favorite sauce to dip the shrimp at the time of consumption.
Other ideas for using dried shrimp
In addition to preparing an excellent snack with dried shrimp Like the one we presented to you previously, dried shrimp can also be used to make delicious soups, adding the ingredients that you like the most or stews, among other dishes.
In China, dried shrimp is used in different fillings in its dishes made with rice, such as sushi, they are also used in stews and soups. Each country incorporates dried shrimp into its main dishes, according to its particular tastes.
Did you know….?
The proteins provided by the shrimp that constitute the dried shrimp snack It brings great benefits to the body because, among other things, it strengthens the immune system and helps build muscles.
Dried shrimp also provide vitamins such as: B12 which, among other things, keeps brain neurons healthy and helps to make the DNA of the body's cells, B6 which, among other functions, helps ensure that sufficient oxygenation reaches the cells of the body. body to stay healthy.
Dried shrimp are rich in Omega 3 and beta-carotene, which are believed to have anticancer properties. They are rich in minerals, which each one contributes its corresponding benefit to the organism, among them are: Iron, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, selenium, magnesium, copper, manganese, Zinc and sodium.
They are also rich in Vitamin A which helps keep vision healthy, as well as contributing to cell division and protection of the immune system. And in Vitamin E good for vision, skin, brain and blood.
If the dried shrimp snack It is consumed with a chili sauce, the nutritional value of the snack is enhanced with the nutritional contribution provided by the chili peppers. They contain, among other things, proteins, vitamins: A, C and B6.
Chili peppers also contain "capsicin", which in addition to producing the characteristic itch causes the secretion of endorphins in the brain of those who consume chili peppers. These substances create a well-being effect in the person and, in addition, antimicrobial and fungicidal benefits are attributed to them.
The Mexican loves to experiment with new flavors and modify according to the spicy flavors that they like. They adapt and transform dishes made in other countries, always adding flavor to the dish.
