SHRIMP TINAKTAK ( Chamorro recipe )
Ingredients:
* 1 small onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 cups fresh green beans, cut into about 2″ pieces
* 1 can stewed tomatoes, drained (cut them smaller if you like)
* 2 pounds shrimp, uncooked, shell on (no heads)
* 2 cans coconut milk
* salt to taste
* pepper to taste
* a squeeze of lime juice (about half a lime)
Directions:
1. In a medium soup pot, sauté the onions and garlic over medium heat, just until the onions become translucent.
2. Add the green beans; cook for about 3 minutes, or until the beans are JUST starting to wilt (do not overcook).
3. Add the tomatoes and shrimp. Cook for 5 minutes or until the shrimp is no longer translucent (the shells will start to turn pink).
4. Add the coconut milk. There should be enough milk to cover the top of the shrimp; add more coconut milk if you like lots of kädu over your rice (I like my rice swimming in coconut milk kädu, so l use lots of coconut milk when making this dish). Simmer over low heat until the coconut milk is warmed through
— DO NOT bring the kadu to a boil or else the coconut milk will separate and the milk will look like it's curdled.
5. Add salt and pepper to taste, then add the squeeze of lime juice. Stir to combine. Serve over hot white rice and ENJOY. #love #yummy #shrimpsoup
When I first discovered Shrimp Tinaktak, I was instantly hooked! It's more than just a dish; it's a warm hug from Guam, offering a taste of authentic Chamorro cuisine that's surprisingly easy to make. Many people search for 'tinaktak recipe Guam' or 'chamorro tinaktak,' and this recipe truly captures the essence of this beloved island favorite. What exactly is Tinaktak? At its heart, it's a creamy coconut milk stew, typically featuring shrimp or other proteins, simmered with vegetables like green beans and tomatoes. The name 'Tinaktak' itself refers to the sound of pounding ingredients, although in modern kitchens, it's a much simpler affair! It's a staple in Chamorro households, cherished for its comforting flavors and versatility. The moment you see those vibrant orange-red shrimp and dark green beans swimming in that rich, creamy coconut milk sauce (just like in the picture from the OCR!), you know you're in for a treat. One of the reasons I often turn to Shrimp Tinaktak is because it truly qualifies as a 'quick meal with shrimp.' After a long day, I don't want to spend hours in the kitchen, and this recipe delivers big on flavor without requiring a ton of prep time. To make it even quicker, I sometimes buy shrimp that's already peeled and deveined, though using shell-on shrimp (as the recipe suggests and the image shows) does impart an extra layer of flavor to the broth. Having your onions, garlic, and green beans prepped ahead of time also saves precious minutes. Within about 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, hearty meal ready to serve! The star of this dish, besides the shrimp, is undoubtedly the 'chamorro coco' – the rich coconut milk. It’s what gives Tinaktak its signature creamy texture and subtly sweet, savory depth. I've learned that using good quality full-fat coconut milk makes a significant difference in the richness of the 'kädu' (sauce). And remember the golden rule: don’t let it boil once the coconut milk is added! A gentle simmer is key to preventing it from separating and losing its beautiful creamy consistency. If you love your rice swimming in sauce, like I do, don't be shy with adding an extra splash of coconut milk! Beyond just being a quick and delicious shrimp dish, Tinaktak is a fantastic introduction to the broader world of Chamorro food. While you're enjoying this stew, you might also be curious about other Chamorro staples. For instance, pairing your Shrimp Tinaktak with a side of 'red rice chamorro recipe' (Hågon Suni) takes the experience to another level – the savory, annatto-infused rice is a perfect complement to the creamy stew. Some people also enjoy it with 'chamorro titiyas' (flatbreads) for dipping. This recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience. It’s comforting, exotic, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner or to impress guests, this Chamorro Shrimp Tinaktak is sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire. Give it a try, and let those delicious island flavors transport you!
