Are you craving a taste of New Orleans without the plane ticket? Then look no further! This recipe for New Orleans BBQ shrimp is your ticket to a flavour explosion, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. It's unbelievably easy, incredibly flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes – perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend feast. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious and authentic dish! This recipe is a great example of easy recipes and healthy meals that don't compromise on taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (Frank's RedHot is traditional, but adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Crusty bread or French bread for serving
Instructions:
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Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat through. This combination creates a richer, more flavorful sauce.
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Whisk in the Flavor: Whisk in the Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, brown sugar, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), black pepper, and salt. Stir until well combined and the brown sugar dissolves completely.
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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; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding will lower the temperature and result in steaming rather than delicious browning.
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Simmer in the Sauce: Once the shrimp are cooked, reduce the heat to low and let them simmer in the sauce for another minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Serve Immediately: Serve the New Orleans BBQ shrimp immediately over crusty bread or French bread, allowing the shrimp and the flavorful sauce to soak into the bread for a truly satisfying experience.
Cooking Tips for the Best BBQ Shrimp:
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Fresh is Best: Using fresh, high-quality shrimp will significantly elevate the taste of your dish.
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Don't Overcook: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
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Adjust the Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper to your liking. Start with less and add more if you prefer a spicier dish.
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Bread Choice: A good quality crusty bread is essential for soaking up the delicious sauce. French bread is a classic choice.
Variations:
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Add Some Herbs: Fresh parsley or chives can be added to the sauce for an extra burst of freshness.
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Spice it Up: A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can add an extra layer of complexity.
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Make it Creamy: A splash of heavy cream can be stirred into the sauce at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This delicious New Orleans BBQ shrimp recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal, a special occasion dinner, or even a casual get-together with friends. It's a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to impress, showcasing the best recipes and homemade cooking techniques. Enjoy!