Are you ready to transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of New Orleans? Then get ready to savor the incredible flavors of authentic Barbecue Shrimp! This easy recipe delivers a delicious, spicy, and buttery shrimp dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It's bursting with flavor and surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking at its finest! This recipe is a celebration of fresh ingredients and classic New Orleans cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 baguette, sliced and toasted (for serving)
Instructions:
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Prep the Shrimp: Ensure your shrimp are thoroughly cleaned, peeled, and deveined. Pat them dry with paper towels; this helps them brown beautifully.
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Melt the Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Don't rush this step; you want the butter to melt gently and evenly.
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Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic – it can quickly become bitter.
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Add the Sauce: Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
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Spice It Up: Now it's time for the flavor explosion! Add the cayenne pepper, paprika, black pepper, oregano, and salt. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer gently for a minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Don't overcrowd the pan; you might need to cook the shrimp in batches to ensure even cooking.
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Serve & Enjoy: Once the shrimp are cooked through, remove them from the skillet and serve immediately over slices of toasted baguette. The buttery, spicy sauce is absolutely divine for dipping!
Tips for the Best Barbecue Shrimp:
- Fresh Shrimp is Key: Using high-quality, fresh shrimp makes all the difference in the flavor of this dish.
- Adjust the Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference. Start with less and add more gradually until you reach your desired level of heat.
- Don't Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Make it a Meal: Serve the barbecue shrimp with a side of rice, salad, or your favorite vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Herby Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a brighter flavor profile.
- Creamy Delight: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This Barbecue Shrimp New Orleans recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delicious and easy way to experience the flavors of the Big Easy. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients, combined with a little culinary know-how, can create a truly unforgettable meal. Enjoy!