Recipe: Cilantro Shrimp with Peanut Sauce

CILANTRO SHRIMP WITH PEANUT SAUCE
(Marinated shrimp are grilled or broiled on skewers.)

FOR THE SHRIMP:
2 cups packed cilantro leaves (about 1 large bunch)
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus additional for the grill rack
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 pounds medium or large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Metal skewers
FOR THE PEANUT SAUCE:
1/4 cup chunky peanut butter
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
Cayenne pepper to taste
1 to 2 tablespoons water

TO PREPARE THE SHRIMP:
In a blender or food processor, puree the cilantro, lime juice, oil and salt. Place the shrimp in a bowl and pour the mixture over, tossing to coat the shrimp. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and up to 8 hours.

WHEN READY TO COOK:
If using a grill, lightly brush the grill rack with oil and preheat the grill. If using a broiler, adjust the rack to the top position, lightly brush the broiler pan with oil and preheat the broiler.

Thread the shrimp onto metal skewers, leaving space between the shrimp and discard the marinade. Grill or broil the shrimp until cooked through, about 3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skewers and transfer them to a platter. Cover with aluminum foil to keep warm.

TO PREPARE THE SAUCE:
In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, sugar, curry powder, lime juice, soy sauce, cayenne pepper to taste and 1 tablespoon of the water. (Stir in additional water as necessary to attain the desired consistency.)

Serve the shrimp with the peanut sauce on the side.

Makes 6 appetizer or 4 main-course servings
Source: Simply Shrimp, Salmon and (Fish) Steaks by Leslie Glover Pendleton