Bacon Wrapped Camarones from Uncle Julio's feature juicy shrimp wrapped in smoky, crispy bacon, grilled to perfection and served with a zesty dipping sauce, offering a savory and flavorful appetizer with a delightful crisp texture.
Equipments
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Grill or grill pan
- Tongs
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush (optional)
- Serving platter
- Small bowls (for dipping sauce)
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 slices bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Ensure the shrimp you choose are large, peeled, and deveined for the best texture and flavor when making Bacon Wrapped Camarones. Selecting thick-cut bacon helps maintain a crispy exterior without overcooking the shrimp inside. Use fresh lime juice to enhance the zesty dipping sauce, balancing the smoky, spicy chipotle and honey for a perfect flavor contrast. Seasoning with garlic and chili powder adds depth, while careful grilling prevents the bacon from becoming too charred or undercooked. Your homemade Bacon Wrapped Camarones from Uncle Julio's copycat menu will capture the authentic smoky, savory, and tangy taste that makes this appetizer a standout.
Instructions
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes (if using).
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
- In mixing bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Cut bacon slices in half.
- Wrap each shrimp with half a piece of bacon.
- Thread wrapped shrimp onto skewers.
- Brush bacon-wrapped shrimp with additional olive oil (optional).
- Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side or until bacon is crispy and shrimp is cooked through.
- Remove skewers from grill and transfer shrimp to serving platter.
- In small bowl, mix mayonnaise, chipotle in adobo, cilantro, honey, and lime juice to make dipping sauce.
- Serve bacon-wrapped shrimp hot with chipotle dipping sauce in separate small bowls.
Substitution
Bacon Wrapped Camarones from Uncle Julio's copycat menu features succulent shrimp wrapped in crispy bacon, delivering a perfect balance of smoky and juicy flavors. If wooden skewers are unavailable, metal skewers can be used for better heat resistance and durability during grilling. In case a grill is not accessible, a grill pan or broiler works well to achieve the desired char and texture. When wrapping the shrimp, secure the bacon tightly to prevent it from unraveling while cooking, using toothpicks if necessary, but remove them before serving. Your dipping sauce can be customized by adjusting the chipotle amount or substituting mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Tips
Make sure to soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling. Patting the shrimp dry before seasoning helps the spices and olive oil adhere properly for better flavor. When wrapping the shrimp with bacon, cut the bacon slices in half to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Grill the skewers over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side to cook the shrimp through while achieving a smoky, crispy bacon texture, but avoid overcooking shrimp to keep them juicy.
Nutritions
Bacon Wrapped Camarones offer a good balance of protein from shrimp and fat from bacon, providing essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins B12, and zinc that support your immune system and brain health. The olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while the chili powder and garlic powder contribute antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. A zesty lime juice infusion enhances vitamin C content, which helps improve iron absorption from the shrimp. The chipotle mayo dipping sauce adds flavor, but be mindful of additional calories and sodium for overall nutritional balance.
Storage
Store leftover Bacon Wrapped Camarones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain their smoky, crispy texture and juicy shrimp inside. Reheat them gently in an oven or grill pan at low heat to preserve the bacon's crispiness without overcooking the shrimp. Your careful storage will keep the flavor and texture delightful for your next serving.
Variation or Alternatives
Try substituting turkey bacon for a leaner option that still crisps well on the grill. If you prefer a smokier flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the marinade before grilling. You can also experiment with different dipping sauces such as a tangy mango salsa or a creamy garlic aioli to complement the smoky shrimp. Your skewers will hold better if you alternate bacon-wrapped shrimp with pieces of grilled pineapple or bell pepper for added texture and flavor contrast.
Allergies
Bacon Wrapped Camarones from Uncle Julio's contain shellfish, a common allergen present in the shrimp. The dish also includes bacon, which may be a concern for individuals with pork allergies or dietary restrictions. Your zesty dipping sauce contains mayonnaise and chipotle in adobo, both of which may include egg and pepper allergens, so caution is advised if you have sensitivities.
Why this recipe?
Bacon Wrapped Camarones at Uncle Julio's restaurant combines the savory crispiness of bacon with succulent, tender shrimp, creating a flavor-packed experience cherished by seafood lovers. The perfect balance of smoky bacon and juicy camarones delivers a unique, mouthwatering taste that stands out on the menu. You'll find recreating this dish at home rewarding due to its straightforward preparation and ability to impress guests with gourmet flavors. Its popularity stems from the satisfying texture contrast and rich, indulgent taste that make every bite unforgettable.