Introduction
Aguachile shrimp is a traditional dish from the coastal regions of Mexico, especially Sinaloa. Known for its bold, fresh, and spicy flavors, aguachile is made with raw shrimp marinated in lime juice, chiles, and fresh herbs.
The combination of lime, cilantro, serrano chile, and fresh shrimp creates a vibrant and refreshing dish with a perfect balance of acidity, heat, and freshness.
Served cold, aguachile is ideal for warm days or as a sophisticated appetizer that showcases authentic Mexican cuisine.
⏱ Preparation time: 25 minutes
🍽 Servings: 4–6 people
🧾 Ingredients
180 ml lime juice
120 ml Clamato®
½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
1 serrano chile, roughly chopped
- 2 serrano chiles, thinly sliced
1 small garlic clove
2 teaspoons salt (divided)
450 g medium or large shrimp, peeled, deveined and halved
½ small red onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons white apple cider vinegar
1 small English cucumber, thinly sliced
4 radishes, thinly sliced
tortilla chips (totopos) for serving
👩🍳 Preparation
1️⃣ Prepare the marinade
In a blender, combine:
- lime juice
- Clamato®
- cilantro
- chopped serrano chile
- garlic
- 1½ teaspoons of salt
Blend until smooth.
2️⃣ Marinate the shrimp
Arrange the shrimp in a shallow dish.
Pour the marinade over them.
Cover and refrigerate for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
3️⃣ Prepare the onion
In a small bowl, combine:
- sliced red onion
- vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of water
- remaining salt
Let it rest while the shrimp marinates.
4️⃣ Finish the dish
Gently mix the cucumber slices with the shrimp and marinade.
Drain the onions and place them on top.
Garnish with:
- sliced serrano chiles
- radishes
🍽 Serving
Serve immediately with:
💡 Tips for Best Results
✔ Use fresh shrimp
Fresh, high-quality shrimp is essential.
✔ Adjust the heat
Add more or less serrano chile to taste.
✔ Balance acidity
Adjust lime juice depending on preference.
✔ Serve fresh
Aguachile should be served immediately for best flavor.
🛒 Mexican Ingredients Used in This Recipe
To prepare this recipe with authentic flavors, you can find in our store:
- Clamato®
- Mexican tortilla chips (totopos)
- Mexican chiles
- traditional Mexican ingredients
👉 All these authentic Mexican ingredients are available at ByLauPereira, with delivery across Portugal.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is aguachile?
Aguachile is a Mexican dish made with raw shrimp marinated in lime juice, chiles and herbs.
Is aguachile similar to ceviche?
Yes, but aguachile is typically spicier and more intense, with a stronger marinade.
How long should shrimp marinate?
Around 20 minutes is enough for the lime to "cook" the shrimp.
Where can I buy Mexican ingredients in Portugal?
You can find Clamato®, chiles and totopos at ByLauPereira, with delivery across Portugal.