RED SAUCE FOR SHRIMP RECIPES

Steps:

• Prepare pina colada dipping sauce first by combining all the ingredients.
• Cover this and let it chill out in the fridge while you make the shrimp.
• Heat oil to 350 degrees.
• Measure 3/4 cup of flour into a medium bowl.
• In another medium bowl mix together the remaining 3/4 cup flour, sugar, and salt.
• Stir milk and rum into flour mixture.
• Let this batter stand for five minutes.
• While the batter rests, combine panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut into a third medium bowl.
• Butterfly cut each shrimp before you start the battering: Use a sharp knife to slice through the top of the shrimp (where the vein was) so that you can spread the shrimp open.
• Leave the tail intact.
• To batter the shrimp, dip each one in the flour, then the wet batter, then coat each shrimp with the panko/coconut mixture.
• Arrange the shrimp on a plate until all of them are battered.
• Fry the shrimp by dropping six at a time into the hot oil for 2 to 3 minutes or until the shrimp are golden brown.
• Remove shrimp to a rack or paper towels to drain.
• Serve shrimp with pina colada dipping sauce on the side, along with a small dish or your favorite salsa.

Steps:

• Puree the tomatoes to a smooth, creamy consistency in a food processor or with an immersion blender. (If you like a more country feel, you can wait and break them up in the pan later with a wooden spoon.)
• Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large saucepan. When hot, add the onion and saute 5 to 6 minutes, or until soft. Add the garlic and cook 2 to 3 minutes, until you see the color start changing. If you'd like to make the sauce spicy, add the red pepper flakes.
• Add the tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to medium low and simmer about 30 minutes. (If you did not puree the tomatoes, use a wooden spoon to break them into pieces while they cook.) Strive for balance in the consistency of the sauce: It has to be fluid, but it should not look overly wet. Add the basil and remove from the heat. Toss with just-cooked pasta.