Shrimp Creole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Creole is a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors. The combination of plump shrimp and a rich, seasoned tomato sauce creates a delicious dish that’s bursting with flavor in every bite. The dish is quick and easy to make, making it ideal for a weeknight meal, and it pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Whether you’re a fan of Creole cuisine or trying it for the first time, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 1 bell pepper, chopped

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice

• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or seafood stock)

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for added heat)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 bay leaf

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• 1 tablespoon fresh green onions, chopped (for garnish)

• Cooked rice (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the vegetables:

• In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery (the classic Creole “holy trinity”) and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

• Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Prepare the sauce:

• Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth (or seafood stock), tomato paste, paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.

• Add the bay leaf and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.

3. Cook the shrimp:

• Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough.

• Stir in fresh parsley and green onions, and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or hot sauce to your taste.

4. Serve:

• Remove the bay leaf from the dish before serving.

• Spoon the Shrimp Creole over a bed of hot, cooked rice and garnish with additional parsley and green onions. Serve with crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: You can add more vegetables like okra, zucchini, or tomatoes for additional flavor and texture.

• Make it spicier: For more heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add a diced jalapeño to the sauce for extra spice.

• Use different seafood: While shrimp is the traditional choice, you can make this dish with other seafood like crab, crawfish, or even fish fillets. Adjust the cooking time based on the type of seafood.

• Vegetarian version: For a vegetarian take, replace the shrimp with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or a combination of beans, and cook them in the same rich Creole sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover Shrimp Creole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Creole. Be sure to thaw the shrimp thoroughly and pat them dry before adding them to the sauce to avoid excess moisture.

Can I make Shrimp Creole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and vegetables ahead of time. Simply store the sauce and cooked shrimp separately in the refrigerator, and then reheat everything together when you’re ready to serve.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Absolutely! You can adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper and hot sauce. If you prefer a milder version, start with less cayenne and omit the hot sauce.

What type of rice should I serve with Shrimp Creole?

Traditional Shrimp Creole is served with white rice, but you can also serve it with brown rice, cauliflower rice, or even quinoa for a healthier option.

How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?

Shrimp is cooked when it turns pink and opaque, and it should curl into a “C” shape. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as it can become tough and rubbery.

Conclusion

Shrimp Creole is a bold and flavorful dish that perfectly captures the essence of Louisiana cooking. With its savory, tangy tomato sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp, it’s a comforting, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re a fan of Creole cuisine or new to it, this dish is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Serve it over rice and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors in every bite!

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