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The Best Shrimp Creole Recipe

The Best Shrimp Creole Recipe for a Flavorful Night In

The Best Shrimp Creole Recipe is a quick and easy journey into classic Louisiana cuisine.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun, Creole, Louisiana
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Canola Oil Provides a neutral fat for sautéing; consider using ghee for a richer flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Adds a luxurious richness to the dish.
  • 1 medium Onion Finely chopped; enhances flavors with sweetness when cooked.
  • 1 medium Green Bell Pepper Finely chopped; contributes crunch and a slight bitterness.
  • 2-3 stalks Celery Chopped; complements the 'Holy Trinity' of Cajun cooking for depth of flavor.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Minced; adds aromatic and savory notes to the dish.
For the Sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun/Creole Seasoning Provides the signature flavor of this dish; consider making your own for a personalized touch.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Adds earthiness that complements the vibrant flavors.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Increases heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
  • 1 Bay Leaf Imparts depth of flavor during cooking; remember to remove before serving.
  • 1 can (15-ounce) Tomato Sauce Forms the base of the sauce; ensures a rich, tangy flavor.
  • 1 cup Water Helps to adjust the sauce's consistency.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Adds a mellow umami flavor that deepens the sauce complexity.
For the Star Ingredient
  • 1.5 pounds Large Shrimp Peeled and deveined; the star of your dish; ensure they're fresh for the best flavor.
For Serving
  • Tabasco Sauce Add to taste for a kick of acidity and heat.
  • Salt and Pepper For seasoning to taste; make this your own!
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Chopped; for garnish and a pop of freshness.
  • Lemon Wedges Serve on the side for a bright, zesty finish.
  • Cooked Rice Serve the dish over this staple for a complete meal that’s simply delightful.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, add 2 tablespoons of canola oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Wait until the butter is fully melted and begins to foam, about 1–2 minutes.
  2. Add 1 finely chopped onion, 1 finely chopped green bell pepper, and 2-3 chopped celery stalks to the skillet. Sauté the mixture, stirring occasionally for 10-12 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and translucent.
  3. Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and 1 bay leaf. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to bloom in the heat.
  4. Next, pour in 1 can of tomato sauce (15 ounces), along with 1 cup of water and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a boil over high heat.
  5. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.
  6. After the sauce has thickened slightly, add 1.5 pounds of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes, gently stirring to ensure even cooking.
  7. Season your Shrimp Creole with Tabasco sauce, salt, and pepper to taste, adjusting to your heat preference. Remove the bay leaf.
  8. Finally, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley over the top and serve the Shrimp Creole immediately over a bed of fluffy cooked rice, accompanied by lemon wedges.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Enhance your Shrimp Creole flavor by blooming spices in hot oil. Avoid overcooking your shrimp; they should be pink and just firm.

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