
Shrimp Pil-Pil
If you were sitting in our family salon right now, I would serve you this. A sizzling, spicy appetizer of shrimp cooked rapidly in a sea of olive oil, garlic, and hot paprika. Rooted deeply in our Berber and Andalusian heritage, this is more than just a dish—it's a story told through spices. Trust me, you'll need plenty of crusty bread to soak up every last drop.
Ingredients
- Shrimp (peeled)
- Garlic (sliced)
- Olive oil
- Hot paprika or Harissa
- Cumin
- Parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the ingredients
What makes this dish a true Masterpiece?
Start the base
Start by gathering your ingredients. The magic always begins with patience and the right spices.
Add the spices
Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a small clay dish or skillet.
Cook to perfection
Add the garlic and spices
Cook to perfection
cooking just until fragrant.
Cook to perfection
Add the shrimp and cook rapidly until they turn pink.
Cook to perfection
Serve sizzling hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Cook to perfection
Serve immediately in the center of the table. In Morocco, we never eat alone—Karam (hospitality) demands we share!
One Tip That Actually Matters
Toast your whole spices in a dry pan for 30 seconds before you grind them. It opens them up. The difference in flavor is not subtle.
Medina Kitchen Experts
Authentic recipe sourced and verified by our local culinary experts. Deeply rooted in Moroccan heritage and family traditions.
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About This Recipe
This dish is a labor of love, but honestly, that's the secret. The slow simmer is what makes everything tender and lets those spices really sing. Take your time with it—it's worth every minute.
Pair It With

Trust us, have a glass with this. It cuts the richness perfectly.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
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