This Shrimps in Culichi Salsa dish is a vibrant, flavor-packed Mexican classic with a healthier twist. The smoky heat of roasted poblano and serrano chilies meets the creamy smoothness of avocado and coconut yogurt, creating a lush green salsa that coats tender, juicy shrimp. Every bite is an explosion of bold flavors, balanced by the freshness of lime and cilantro. Perfect as a light main course or a zesty appetizer, this dish pairs wonderfully with warm tortillas, fluffy rice, or even as a taco filling. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or an impressive dish to serve guests, this dairy-free version of Culichi Shrimp is sure to delight.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 poblano green chili peppers
- 2 serrano green chili peppers
- 2 garlic cloves
- 4 spring onions
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 100g coconut yogurt
- 1/4 avocado
- 1/2 lime, juiced
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro
- 200g shrimps
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (355°F).
- Chop the green chili peppers, garlic, and spring onions, then place them on a roasting tray. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for 15 minutes, tossing halfway through.
- Transfer the roasted peppers to a food processor, add coconut yogurt, avocado, lime juice, and fresh cilantro. Blend with a splash of water until creamy.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pan-fry the shrimps for 2-3 minutes until pink. Remove from heat to prevent overcooking.
- Pour the creamy green salsa into bowls and top with the grilled shrimps. Garnish with lime wedges, cracked black pepper, and chopped cilantro.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 225 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
Origins and Cultural Significance
The name “Culichi” is derived from Culiacán, the capital city of Sinaloa, where this type of green sauce is widely used in different dishes, especially seafood. The state of Sinaloa is known for its fresh shrimp and fish, which are key components in many local recipes.
The traditional version of Culichi salsa is made with roasted poblano peppers, serrano chilies, garlic, onions, and Mexican crema, often blended with cheese to create a smooth, rich consistency. The salsa is then poured over grilled or sautéed shrimp, creating a mouthwatering fusion of smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors.
In Sinaloa, you’ll often find Shrimps in Culichi Salsa served in coastal restaurants, food markets, and even home kitchens, where families enjoy it as a comforting, flavorful dish. Some variations include adding melted cheese on top or using it as a filling for tacos and burritos.
This modern dairy-free version replaces Mexican crema with coconut yogurt and cheese with avocado, ensuring that the dish remains just as creamy and delicious while being a healthier alternative.
Flavors and Texture
The beauty of Shrimps in Culichi Salsa lies in its perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors. Each ingredient in the dish plays a vital role in creating its rich taste:
- Poblano Peppers: These large, dark green chilies are mild in heat but packed with a deep, smoky flavor. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their complexity.
- Serrano Chilies: Smaller and spicier than poblanos, these chilies add heat to the salsa, giving it that signature kick. If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the number of serrano chilies or replace them with jalapeños.
- Garlic and Onion: These aromatics enhance the depth of flavor, providing a subtle savory background that complements the roasted chilies.
- Avocado: Used as a natural thickener, avocado adds creaminess and richness, making the sauce feel indulgent without the need for dairy.
- Coconut Yogurt: This ingredient mimics the tanginess and texture of Mexican crema while being dairy-free and lower in saturated fats.
- Shrimp: The star of the dish, shrimp bring a sweet, slightly briny taste that pairs perfectly with the robust flavors of the salsa.
The result is a dish that’s light yet satisfying, creamy yet refreshing, and spicy yet balanced. Every bite delivers a burst of flavor that makes you want to come back for more.
Health Benefits
This dairy-free version of Shrimps in Culichi Salsa not only retains the deliciousness of the traditional recipe but also comes with numerous health benefits. Here’s why this dish is a fantastic choice for a nutritious meal:
- Low in Calories & Saturated Fat
- The traditional version of this dish uses heavy cream and cheese, increasing its saturated fat content. This recipe replaces them with avocado and coconut yogurt, which are healthier fat sources.
- The dish remains rich and creamy but contains significantly lower calories and only 3.5g of saturated fat per serving, compared to 7g in the traditional version.
- High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Shrimp is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, reduce inflammation, and improve brain function.
- Avocado also contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, further enhancing the nutritional value of this dish.
- Packed with Antioxidants & Vitamins
- Poblano and serrano peppers are excellent sources of vitamin C and antioxidants, which support immune function and fight inflammation.
- Garlic and onions contain compounds that promote cardiovascular health and boost the immune system.
- Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free
- This recipe is perfect for those with lactose intolerance or those following a gluten-free diet.
- Using coconut yogurt instead of dairy makes the dish easier to digest while still providing a creamy texture.
Best Ways to Serve Shrimps in Culichi Salsa
One of the great things about this dish is its versatility. You can serve it in multiple ways, depending on your preference:
- With White Rice or Brown Rice: The mild taste of rice complements the bold flavors of the salsa, making it a great side dish.
- With Warm Corn Tortillas: Transform this dish into Culichi Shrimp Tacos by adding it to soft tortillas and topping it with fresh cilantro, sliced radishes, or pickled onions.
- As a Dip: Serve the creamy salsa as a dipping sauce for shrimp, grilled vegetables, or tortilla chips.
- In a Burrito Bowl: Build a nutritious bowl by pairing the shrimp with quinoa, black beans, and fresh avocado slices.
- With Grilled Vegetables: Add some grilled bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to create a balanced meal.
No matter how you serve it, this dish will bring an authentic taste of Mexico to your table.
Conclusion:
Shrimps in Culichi Salsa is a fantastic example of how Mexican cuisine can be both indulgent and healthy. This dairy-free adaptation keeps all the traditional flavors while offering a lighter and more nutritious version.
With its smoky poblano and serrano chilies, creamy avocado base, and succulent shrimp, this dish is a must-try for seafood lovers and anyone who enjoys bold, spicy flavors. Whether served with rice, tortillas, or as part of a larger meal, it’s a dish that will impress family and guests alike.
