Sometimes we forget that there is more to Mexican food than our favorite enchiladas and puffy tacos. In fact, there are many specialty seafood dishes throughout the country, varying in style and preparation, yet equally delicious. Veracruz is a central Mexican city on the Gulf of Mexico, and it’s where many Spanish conquistadors landed when first coming to the Americas. Here, culinary traditions began to meld—not only Spanish but also Mediterranean, French, and Caribbean. The result is Veracruzano—Veracruz style. We love serving our version of this dish over a bed of fluffy quinoa, which is an excellent vehicle for soaking up the delicious juices.
Recipe information
Yield
makes 8 servings
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 425°F.
Step 2
In a large sauté pan set over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the onion, mushrooms, bell pepper, and jalapeño, and cook until softened, about 8 minutes. Add the tomato puree, diced tomatoes, wine, chili sauce, lemon juice, capers, parsley, garlic, thyme, and salt, and cook for 5 minutes.
Step 3
Pour half of the sauce into the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. Season the snapper fillets and the shrimp with salt and pepper, and lay them on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining sauce over the seafood. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until the fish is flaky.
note
Step 4
Never heard of quinoa? Crystal invites you to get to know one of her favorite ingredients. Although quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) has been around for centuries, it isn’t a mainstream pantry item in American kitchens. It has a similar texture to that of couscous or rice, with a slight crunch and a somewhat nutty flavor when cooked. Quinoa is considered a super food because it contains more protein than any other grain, and this protein is complete, containing all nine essential amino acids. Look for quinoa at your local grocery. Your body will thank you for it.
