Are you craving a taste of New Orleans without the plane ticket? Then look no further! This recipe recreates the legendary BBQ shrimp from Pascal's Manale Restaurant, a New Orleans institution. This easy recipe delivers that same incredible, buttery, garlicky, spicy flavor you've heard so much about – right in your own kitchen. Get ready for a delicious and relatively quick dinner that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined (leave tails on for presentation)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning (adjust to your spice preference)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 baguette, sliced, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
Ensure your shrimp are thoroughly cleaned, peeled, and deveined. Leaving the tails on is traditional, but feel free to remove them if you prefer. Pat them dry with paper towels; this helps them brown nicely.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat through. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, garlic, cayenne pepper (if using), black pepper, and paprika. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce is fragrant and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Carefully add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring they're not overcrowded. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, as this will make them tough.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a platter. Serve immediately with the baguette slices for dipping into the delicious buttery sauce. The bread soaks up all the amazing flavour!
Tips for the Best BBQ Shrimp:
- Use high-quality shrimp: The flavor of your shrimp will directly impact the final dish. Opt for fresh, large shrimp for the best results.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan will steam the shrimp instead of browning them, resulting in a less flavorful dish. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper to your liking. Start with less and add more if needed.
- Make it ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it gently before adding the shrimp.
Variations:
- Add some herbs: Fresh parsley or chives sprinkled over the finished dish adds a fresh, vibrant element.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve the BBQ shrimp over rice or pasta for a more substantial meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on shrimp size and serving size. However, a general estimate per serving (assuming 3-4 large shrimp) is approximately:
- Calories: 250-350
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This Pascal's Manale BBQ Shrimp recipe is a surefire hit. It's a quick, delicious, and relatively healthy meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the taste of New Orleans in your own home! Let us know how yours turns out in the comments below!