From the Streets of Madrid: The Story of Gambas al Ajillo
Few dishes capture the soul of Spanish tapas culture quite like Gambas al Ajillo — juicy prawns sizzling in a terracotta dish of golden garlic-infused olive oil. The dish is deceptively simple, yet when done right, it is absolutely extraordinary. At Tapas Zampa, our version is prepared fresh to order, ensuring every plate arrives at your hands piping hot and full of flavour.
The Secret Is in the Garlic
The magic of Gambas al Ajillo lies in the quality of the ingredients. We use fresh whole prawns, generous amounts of thinly sliced garlic, a good glug of Spanish extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of dried chilli for warmth. The garlic is gently cooked until golden — never burnt — to release its sweet, nutty flavour into the oil. The prawns are then added and cooked just until they turn pink and curl, preserving their natural succulence.
Why This Dish Belongs on Every Table
Gambas al Ajillo is the perfect sharing dish. The rich, garlicky oil at the bottom of the bowl is just as treasured as the prawns themselves — use crusty bread to mop it all up and you will understand why this dish has been a staple of Spanish bars for centuries. It pairs beautifully with a cold glass of Albariño white wine or a crisp lager on a warm summer evening.
Find Us at Your Next Local Event
Tapas Zampa brings Gambas al Ajillo and all our authentic Spanish favourites directly to you. Whether it is a food festival, a private event, or a weekend market in Leamington Spa, we are there to serve up the very best of Spain. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to find out where we will be parked next.
