Il Cucinologo
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Shrimp Tartare with Caramelized Citrus Zest

17/11/2023

The shrimp tartare with caramelized citrus zest is a sophisticated and fresh dish, perfect for a special occasion or as an appetizer in a summer dinner. We know that Italian cuisine favors the use of fresh, high-quality seafood ingredients, so make sure to use the freshest raw shrimp. Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

  • 200 g raw peeled shrimp
  • Zest of 1 untreated lemon
  • Zest of 1 untreated orange
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • Extra virgin olive oil to taste
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Lemon juice to taste
  • Chopped chives or other aromatic herb of your choice for garnish

Preparation

  1. Start by cutting the raw shrimp into very small pieces to create the tartare. Remember that the shrimp must be very fresh and of high quality because they will be consumed raw.
  2. Place the shrimp in a bowl and season with extra virgin olive oil, salt, pepper, and a little lemon juice. Mix well and let rest in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes.
  3. Meanwhile, prepare the caramelized citrus zests. Using a vegetable peeler or a sharp small knife, remove thin strips of lemon zest and orange zest, avoiding the white part, which is bitter.
  4. In a small pan, caramelize the zests with a tablespoon of sugar and a little water. Cook over low heat until the sugar turns golden and the zests are slightly candied.
  5. Remove the caramelized zests from the pan and let them cool on a sheet of parchment paper.
  6. Arrange the shrimp tartare on individual plates using a ring mold to give an orderly circular shape.
  7. Garnish with the caramelized citrus zests and, if desired, add chopped chives or other aromatic herbs to taste.
  8. Serve immediately, optionally accompanied by bread crostini or fresh salad.

Trivia

The shrimp tartare is a dish that takes advantage of the natural sweetness of the crustaceans, which is further enhanced by the citrus notes and the sweet touch of the candied zests. It is a dish that well represents the union between seafood flavors and citrus, much loved in Mediterranean cuisine. Always remember to use the freshest and highest quality products when preparing raw dishes like this tartare.