National Dish Peru: Sudado de Camarones (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Sudado de Camarones, a fragrant taste of Peru’s sun-drenched coast! This traditional dish gently steams plump prawns in a zesty tomato-and-onion sauce, brightened with lime and fresh coriander. It is surprisingly simple to make, which is exactly why it slips so easily from a relaxed weeknight supper to a special-occasion centrepiece. Served over fluffy rice that soaks up every last drop of the sauce, it brings the flavours of the Pacific straight to your table.
About Sudado de Camarones
Sudado de Camarones is a traditional Peruvian dish that gathers the flavours of the country into one delicious recipe. With fresh prawns, a spiced tomato and onion sauce and aromatic herbs, it is a genuine feast for the senses. The preparation is relatively straightforward, which makes it just as suited to everyday cooking as to special occasions. In Peru it is often served with rice, which helps to soak up every bit of the wonderful sauce.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 300g fresh prawns
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 lime, freshly squeezed
- 1 bunch fresh coriander, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Rice, to serve
Shopping for the ingredients
The ingredients for Sudado de Camarones are fairly easy to find, especially at a well-stocked supermarket or a weekly farmers’ market. Do make sure the prawns are as fresh as possible, as this has a considerable influence on the flavour of the finished dish. It is worth choosing organic tomatoes and onions to be sure you avoid any unwanted chemicals. Many of these ingredients are versatile enough to use in other dishes too, so the shopping trip more than pays for itself.
Preparing the dish
Getting ready to cook Sudado de Camarones is quick and uncomplicated. Begin by washing and prepping all of your ingredients. The tomatoes should be diced, the onions and garlic finely chopped, and the coriander roughly cut. These small preparations are key to saving time at the stove and keeping the whole process smooth. You should also cook the rice according to the packet instructions so that it is ready at the same moment as the dish.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan and fry the chopped onion and garlic until crisp and golden.
- Add the diced tomatoes and stir well until they break down and form a soft pulp.
- Add the prawns and cook for around 5–7 minutes, until they turn pink and are cooked through.
- Season with lime juice, paprika, salt and pepper, then stir through the coriander.
- Serve the dish hot, alongside a portion of rice.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Sudado de Camarones is naturally gluten-free and lactose-free, which makes it an excellent option for anyone with those intolerances. Do check the rice you use, however, as some brands can contain traces of gluten. It is worth choosing a certified gluten-free variety if you want to be completely sure. That way you can enjoy this delicious dish with total peace of mind.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Even though Sudado de Camarones is a seafood-based dish, vegans and vegetarians can create a delicious version of their own. Instead of prawns, use tofu or vegetables, which take on the flavours of the sauce beautifully. You can also swap in vegetable stock to deepen the taste. Plenty of the spices and herbs are naturally vegan-friendly, so the dish stays every bit as tasty and appealing.
More tips and tricks
There are a few helpful tips that can bring out the best in Sudado de Camarones. Use fresh ingredients, as these have by far the biggest impact on the flavour. Let the sauce rest for a little while after cooking so the aromas have time to develop before you serve. Finally, garnish the finished dish with a few extra lime wedges and fresh coriander to give it an inviting, appetising look.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Sudado de Camarones is easy to tailor to your own preferences. If you like things spicier, simply add fresh chilli or a pinch of chilli powder. For a less saucy result, reduce the amount of tomato and use a little more onion instead. Experiment with different herbs and spices to shape the flavour exactly as you like it. That way every batch turns out unique and perfectly suited to your palate.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have every ingredient for Sudado de Camarones to hand, there are a few alternatives that keep the character of the dish intact. In place of fresh prawns you can use frozen ones, which are just as flavourful. Coconut milk can stand in for fresh tomatoes to give a creamier texture — a similar richness to the one you’ll find in Aji De Langostinos. Swaps like these mean you can still make the dish even when certain ingredients are missing.
Drink pairing ideas
Choosing the right drink can round off the whole experience of Sudado de Camarones. A refreshing Peruvian drink such as Chicha Morada pairs wonderfully with it. Alternatively, a crisp white wine picks up the delicate flavours of the prawns nicely. Sparkling water with a squeeze of lime is another great non-alcoholic option that complements the spices beautifully.
Serving and presentation ideas
Thoughtful presentation can lift the enjoyment of Sudado de Camarones considerably. Serve the dish on a large plate and garnish it with fresh coriander and lime wedges. A small bowl of extra lime juice and a few toasted corn kernels on the side underline the Peruvian flair. A colourful combination of rice, prawns and vegetables also looks wonderfully appetising and turns the meal into an occasion.
A bit of history
Sudado de Camarones has its roots in Peru’s coastal cooking, which draws heavily on the region’s fresh seafood. Traditionally it was served in many family kitchens as a filling and nourishing meal. The use of spices such as coriander and lime is characteristic of Peruvian cuisine, which blends flavours from many different cultures. In this way the dish tells the story not only of how it is made, but also of Peru’s diversity and history — much like the celebrated Ceviche of the same coastline.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Sudado de Camarones
Sudado de Camarones is a flavourful, nourishing dish that masterfully unites the aromas of Peruvian cooking. With fresh prawns, a spiced sauce and a side of rice, it offers a complete and satisfying eating experience. At the same time, the dish adapts easily to different diets and personal tastes. Enjoy a little piece of Peru on your plate and let this culinary journey inspire you!
