boca chica is a beach right outside the dominican capital of santo domingo.  the very popular beach has crystalline water and incredibly fine sand. you can walk in the water and the depth will barely change, the water will be to your waist (or a little bit over) all the time.

i got this recipe from a book my aunt sent me with my mom last month.  the book is written in spanish and it is called ‘cocina criolla dominicana’ (typical/creole dominican cooking).  as you will see below, it is very easy and quick.  i am not sure why it is called boca chica shrimp as i had never had them before. 

here is the recipe for boca chica shrimp!

INGREDIENTS:
1lb raw shrimp
4 leaves of basil
3 garlic cloves
4 roma tomatoes
1 cup of red cooking wine
1 tbsp of tomato paste
1 sprig of cilantro
2 sprig of scallions
1 green pepper
2 limes
1/2 tsp of salt
1 tbsp of canola or vegetable oil

INSTRUCTIONS:
clean the shrimp and place them in a bowl with 2 cups of water and the juice of the two limes. let them rest for 10 minutes.

peel the four garlic cloves

mash them with the salt.

chop up the herbs and tomatoes.

drain the shrimp.

heat up the oil in a skillet.  

add the dhrimp turning so they cook on all sides.

after a few minutes add the pepper, basil, scallions, cilantro and tomatoes.

add the mashed garlic.

and the wine.

mix that in and add the tomato paste.

mix the tomato paste well.

cook covered for 15 minutes.

taste and season if needed. 

serve them with rice or fried green plantains.

make sure not to cook the shrimp for too long. about 17 minutes total should be enough.

the herbs give it a very fresh taste.

this was the perfect midday meal. quick, easy, filling.

hope you try making it at home.

thanks for stopping by!