Dominican Savory Coconut Arepitas with Creole Garlic Shrimp and Warm Avocado Salad

Instructions

1. 1

   1. In a medium bowl, combine the precooked fine cornmeal with the coconut milk, water, 3 g (1/2 tsp) salt, sugar, and melted butter. Let it rest for 10 minutes so the cornmeal hydrates and forms a moldable dough.

2. 2

   2. While the dough rests, season the shrimp with 2 g (1/3 tsp) salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and 30 ml (2 tbsp) fresh lime juice. Mix well and refrigerate for 10 minutes.

3. 3

   3. In another bowl, prepare the warm salad by combining the avocado, half of the red onion, 15 ml (1 tbsp) lime juice, white vinegar, 1 g (a pinch) salt, and half of the fresh cilantro. Set aside to toss again at the end so the avocado keeps its shape.

4. 4

   4. Shape the dough into 8 small arepitas, about 1.5 cm (1/2 inch) thick. If the dough feels too dry, add 15 to 30 ml (1 to 2 tbsp) water; if too wet, add a little more cornmeal.

5. 5

   5. Heat 60 ml (1/4 cup) vegetable oil in a wide skillet over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F / 175°C. Fry the arepitas in batches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

6. 6

   6. Carefully remove most of the oil from the skillet, leaving only 15 ml (1 tbsp). Add the garlic, remaining red onion, and Dominican sweet peppers. Sauté for 2 minutes over medium heat until fragrant and just tender.

7. 7

   7. Add the shrimp with their marinade and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through to a safe internal temperature of 145°F / 63°C. Turn off the heat and add the remaining lime juice and fresh cilantro.

8. 8

   8. Gently toss the avocado salad again to refresh it with the juices in the bowl. If desired, bring it near the residual heat for 30 seconds without fully cooking it, to create a warm-salad effect.

9. 9

   9. Serve 2 arepitas per plate, top with the creole garlic shrimp, and add the warm avocado salad on the side. Finish with the crumbled cassava flatbread for extra crunch.