Seafood Ajillo in Singapore: A Must-Try Dish for Seafood Lovers

If you're a seafood lover, you might have heard of seafood ajillo, a popular Spanish dish that has made its way to Singapore. This garlicky, flavourful dish is a favourite among locals and tourists alike, and it's easy to see why. With fresh seafood cooked in a delicious garlic and olive oil sauce, seafood ajillo is a must-try for anyone who loves seafood.

In this article, we'll give you an overview of seafood ajillo, including its key ingredients and cooking techniques. We'll also share with you some of the best places to enjoy seafood ajillo in Singapore, so you can satisfy your cravings for this delectable dish. Whether you're a seasoned seafood lover or just starting to explore the world of seafood, this article is for you. So, let's dive in and discover everything you need to know about seafood ajillo in Singapore.

Key Takeaways

• Seafood ajillo is a popular Spanish dish that has become a favourite in Singapore.
• The key ingredients for seafood ajillo include garlic, olive oil, and fresh seafood.
• Seafood ajillo is best enjoyed at restaurants that use fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.

Overview of Seafood Ajillo

If you're a fan of seafood, you're in for a treat with seafood ajillo. This dish is a Spanish classic that has made its way to Singapore. The dish is made with fresh seafood, garlic, olive oil, and chili peppers. The seafood is cooked in a hot skillet until it is golden brown and then served with a side of bread.

Origins and Cultural Significance

Seafood ajillo originated in Spain, specifically in the southern region of Andalusia. The dish has been around for centuries and has become a staple in Spanish cuisine. The name "ajillo" comes from the Spanish word for garlic, which is a key ingredient in the dish. In Spain, seafood ajillo is often served as a tapa, which is a small dish served as an appetizer or snack.

Popularity in Singapore

Seafood ajillo has become increasingly popular in Singapore in recent years. Many restaurants in Singapore now offer seafood ajillo on their menus, and it has become a favourite among locals and tourists alike. The dish is often served with a side of bread, which is used to soak up the garlic and oil. Seafood ajillo is a great dish to share with friends or family, and it pairs well with a glass of wine or beer.

If you're looking to try seafood ajillo in Singapore, there are plenty of restaurants that offer this delicious dish. Some of the best places to try seafood ajillo include Mellben Seafood, Palm Beach Seafood, and JUMBO Seafood.

Key Ingredients for Seafood Ajillo

If you're looking to make an authentic and delicious seafood ajillo dish, there are a few key ingredients that you'll need to keep in mind. Here are some of the most important ones:

Seafood Selection

The first and most important ingredient for seafood ajillo is, of course, the seafood. Traditionally, this dish is made with shrimp, but you can also use other types of seafood like clams, mussels, or squid. When selecting your seafood, make sure to choose fresh, high-quality ingredients that are sustainably sourced.

Garlic and Olive Oil Essentials

Another essential ingredient for seafood ajillo is garlic. You'll want to use plenty of fresh garlic cloves, which will give the dish its signature flavour and aroma. To prepare the garlic, simply peel and finely chop the cloves.

In addition to garlic, you'll also need a good quality olive oil. This will be used to cook the garlic and seafood, and will help to infuse the dish with a rich, savoury flavour. Look for an extra-virgin olive oil that is fruity and robust, with a peppery finish.

To summarise, the key ingredients for a delicious seafood ajillo dish are fresh, sustainably sourced seafood, plenty of fresh garlic, and a good quality olive oil. With these ingredients, you'll be able to create a dish that is bursting with flavour and perfect for any occasion.

Cooking Techniques for Ajillo

If you're looking to make a delicious seafood ajillo in Singapore, there are a few cooking techniques you should keep in mind. Here are some tips and tricks to help you create the perfect dish.

Preparation Steps

Before you start cooking, there are a few preparation steps you should follow to ensure your ajillo turns out perfectly. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Choose the right seafood: When it comes to seafood, freshness is key. Look for clear, bright eyes in fish and firm, shiny flesh. For shrimp, choose ones that are pink and firm.
• Clean your seafood: Rinse your seafood under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
• Prepare your ingredients: Mince your garlic, chop your parsley, and slice your chilli peppers.
• Heat your pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Cooking Tips and Tricks

Now that you've prepared your ingredients, it's time to start cooking. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the perfect ajillo:

• Use plenty of garlic: Garlic is the star of the show in ajillo, so don't be shy. Use at least 3-4 cloves per serving.
• Cook your garlic first: Add your garlic to the hot skillet and cook for 30 seconds to a minute, until fragrant.
• Add your seafood: Add your seafood to the skillet and cook until it's almost done. For shrimp, this should take 2-3 minutes per side.
• Add your other ingredients: Add your chilli peppers, parsley, and any other ingredients you're using, and cook for another minute or two.
• Don't overcook your seafood: Overcooked seafood can be tough and rubbery, so be careful not to overcook it. Remove it from the heat as soon as it's done.

By following these cooking techniques, you'll be able to create a delicious seafood ajillo that's sure to impress.

Best Places to Enjoy Seafood Ajillo in Singapore

If you're a seafood lover, then you must try seafood ajillo in Singapore. This dish is a Spanish-inspired pasta that features succulent seafood cooked in a garlic-infused olive oil sauce, served over spaghetti. Here are some of the best places to enjoy seafood ajillo in Singapore:

1. Good Bites
Good Bites is a cosy cafe that serves up a variety of Western and Asian dishes, including a delicious seafood ajillo. The dish is made with fresh prawns, squid, and clams, cooked to perfection in a mouth-watering garlic and olive oil sauce. The spaghetti is al dente and perfectly complements the seafood.

2. Citrus By The Pool
Citrus By The Pool is a casual dining spot located at Woodlands Swimming Complex. They serve up a variety of Western and Asian dishes, including a scrumptious seafood ajillo. The dish is made with juicy prawns, tender squid, and clams, cooked in a flavourful garlic and olive oil sauce. The spaghetti is cooked to perfection and the dish is garnished with fresh herbs.

3. The Malayan Council
The Malayan Council is a halal-certified restaurant that serves up a fusion of Malay and Western cuisine. Their seafood ajillo is a must-try dish, made with fresh prawns, squid, and clams, cooked in a delectable garlic and olive oil sauce. The spaghetti is cooked al dente and the dish is garnished with fresh herbs.

4. New Ubin Seafood
New Ubin Seafood is a popular seafood restaurant that serves up a variety of dishes, including a delicious seafood ajillo. The dish is made with fresh prawns, squid, and clams, cooked in a flavourful garlic and olive oil sauce. The spaghetti is cooked to perfection and the dish is garnished with fresh herbs.

5. JUMBO Seafood
JUMBO Seafood is a well-known seafood restaurant that serves up a variety of dishes, including a mouth-watering seafood ajillo. The dish is made with fresh prawns, squid, and clams, cooked in a delicious garlic and olive oil sauce. The spaghetti is cooked al dente and the dish is garnished with fresh herbs.

These are just some of the best places to enjoy seafood ajillo in Singapore. Each restaurant offers a unique twist on the dish, so be sure to try them all and find your favourite!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I purchase seafood ajillo in Singapore?

You can find seafood ajillo in many seafood restaurants across Singapore. Some popular restaurants that serve this dish include Jumbo Seafood, Red House Seafood, and Mellben Seafood. You can also find seafood ajillo in some Spanish restaurants in Singapore.

Could you share a simple recipe for making seafood ajillo at home?

Certainly! To make seafood ajillo at home, you'll need garlic, olive oil, seafood (such as prawns, clams, or squid), dried chili flakes, and parsley. Heat the olive oil in a pan, add the garlic and chili flakes, and cook until fragrant. Add the seafood and cook until it's just cooked through. Finally, add the parsley and serve with crusty bread.

What ingredients do I need to prepare seafood ajillo?

To prepare seafood ajillo, you'll need garlic, olive oil, seafood (such as prawns, clams, or squid), dried chili flakes, and parsley. You can also add other ingredients such as lemon juice or white wine to enhance the flavour.

Which places serve the best seafood ajillo in Singapore?

There are many great seafood restaurants in Singapore that serve delicious seafood ajillo. Some popular options include Jumbo Seafood, Red House Seafood, and Mellben Seafood. You can also find seafood ajillo in some Spanish restaurants in Singapore.

How can I get seafood ajillo delivered to my home in Singapore?

Many seafood restaurants in Singapore offer delivery services, so you can enjoy seafood ajillo from the comfort of your own home. You can also use food delivery apps such as Deliveroo, GrabFood, and Foodpanda to order seafood ajillo from your favourite restaurants.

What's typically included in ajillo sauce?

Ajillo sauce typically consists of garlic, olive oil, and dried chili flakes. Some variations may include other ingredients such as white wine or lemon juice to enhance the flavour.