Shrimp Creole

Shrimp Creole

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Shrimp Creole is a flavorful dish that brings the taste of New Orleans right to your table. This dish is a blend of shrimp, vegetables, and a savory sauce seasoned with Creole spices. It is often served over fluffy white rice and packs a punch with its rich, spicy flavor. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, Shrimp Creole is sure to impress anyone who tries it!

Why Make This Recipe

Making Shrimp Creole is a great way to enjoy a delicious, hearty meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. The combination of shrimp and fresh vegetables makes it both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, it uses common ingredients you might already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe is simple to follow and can be customized to suit your taste.

How to Make Shrimp Creole

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Creole or Cajun seasoning
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup seafood or chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Cooked white rice, for serving

Directions:

1. Start by patting the shrimp dry. Lightly season them with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of Creole seasoning. Set aside while we sauté the veggies.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter with the vegetable oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery—the "holy trinity" of Creole cooking—and sauté until softened, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Next, add the minced garlic along with Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and cayenne. Cook for about a minute, allowing those lovely aromas to fill your kitchen.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for another minute. Then, add the diced tomatoes (juice and all), broth, and bay leaves. Bring this flavorful mix to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes.
5. Gently stir the shrimp into the sauce and allow them to simmer until they turn pink and opaque, roughly 3-4 minutes. Remove the bay leaves before serving!
6. Taste your creation and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Creole seasoning if desired.
7. Just before serving, stir in the chopped parsley and sliced green onions for a fresh finish.
8. Serve hot over a bed of cooked white rice, garnished with extra parsley or green onions.

How to Serve Shrimp Creole

Serve Shrimp Creole hot, piled high over a warm bowl of cooked white rice. You can also add some crusty bread on the side for dipping. Garnish your dish with extra parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. This dish can be a main dish for lunch or dinner and also makes a great meal for guests.

How to Store Shrimp Creole

If you have leftovers, let the Shrimp Creole cool down to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just remember to let it cool first before freezing. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up in a skillet or microwave.

Tips to Make Shrimp Creole

• Make sure the shrimp are fresh and of good quality for the best taste.
• Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your spice preference; you can make it more or less spicy.
• You can also add other vegetables like okra or diced carrots to boost the nutrition.
• If you like a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce.

Variation

You can make a seafood version of Shrimp Creole by adding other types of seafood like crab or scallops. You can also create a vegetarian version by replacing shrimp with beans or lentils, and using vegetable broth instead.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

2. Is Shrimp Creole spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted! Start with less cayenne and add more to taste, depending on your preference.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Shrimp Creole can be made a day in advance. Just reheat it on the stovetop before serving.

Enjoy this delicious Shrimp Creole recipe any day of the week!