I didn’t fully appreciate geera (roasted cumin) until adulthood. Now I use it in so many dishes. This Spicy Geera Shrimp combines smoky roasted cumin with spicy peppers for a quick and vibrant seafood dish. Ready in under 10 minutes, it packs bold Caribbean flavors and is perfect as a lively appetizer or satisfying main. Inspired by Geera Pork often enjoyed with rum, this shrimp version is equally delicious and instantly shareable at parties.
Ingredient Guide
- Shrimp: Tender, juicy crustaceans—ideal carriers for geera and spices.
- Roasted Cumin (Geera): Provides warm, smoky depth and distinctive Caribbean flavor.
- Caribbean Green Seasoning: Herb blend that brings traditional island brightness.
- Cumin Seeds: Toasted in oil for added texture and aroma.
- Coriander Seeds: Adds citrusy warmth underneath the heat.
- Garlic: Lends savory complexity.
- Habanero and Wiri Wiri Peppers: Pack intense heat—adjust to your spice preference.
- Olive and Vegetable Oil: Used for cooking and flavor layering.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasoning for harmony.
- Cilantro and Scallion: Fresh finish that lightens the dish.
Shopping Made Easy
- Shrimp are available fresh or frozen in seafood sections.
- Geera (roasted cumin) and green seasoning are in Caribbean or international spice aisles.
- Scallions come in bunches in the produce section.
- Wiri wiri peppers are specialty but Scotch bonnet works well too.
Cooking Notes from the Kitchen
- Let seasoned shrimp sit 15–60 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Always start spice base on low to avoid burning.
- Use a wide pan to cook shrimp in one layer—this helps develop sear.
- Serve immediately—overcooking shrimp makes them rubbery.
Is this very spicy?
Yes, this dish is meant to be hot. For milder heat, reduce the peppers or remove seeds.
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Can I use other proteins?
Absolutely, chicken cubes or tofu absorb geera beautifully with the same cooking method.
Can I prep this ahead?
Mix shrimp with dry seasonings a few hours ahead. Cook just before serving for best texture.
Is it gluten‑free?
Yes, just confirm your green seasoning is gluten-free.
Spicy Geera Shrimp (Caribbean Roasted Cumin)
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds shrimp peeled, deveined
- 1 tablespoon roasted cumin powder geera
- 1 tablespoon Caribbean Green Seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1 habanero pepper sliced, seeds optional
- 5 Wiri Wiri peppers or Scotch bonnet peppers, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic diced
- 1 scallion chopped
- 2 tablespoons cilantro chopped
Instructions
- Season shrimp in a bowl with ½ tablespoons roasted cumin, green seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let rest if time allows.
- Stir well and allow to marinate (if you have time) for an hour or so.
- Heat olive and vegetable oils in a wide skillet on low. Add cumin seeds, coriander seeds, garlic, habanero, and peppers. Cook 3–4 minutes, stirring often.
- Increase heat to medium-high; add shrimp and remaining roasted cumin. Stir-fry quickly for 4–5 minutes until shrimp are just cooked.
- Remove from heat; stir in scallion and cilantro.
- Taste and adjust salt or heat, then serve immediately.
