Are you craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Seafood Cajun Recipe, a delightful twist on classic Panlasang Pinoy, is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The rich, spicy Cajun flavors blend beautifully with the sweetness of the seafood, creating a dish that's both exciting and comforting. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, squid, scallops – your choice!), cleaned and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup seafood broth or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until slightly tender.
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Build the Flavor: Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), seafood broth, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
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Add the Seafood: Gently stir in the seafood. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the seafood, as it can become tough.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over cooked rice.
Tips for the Best Seafood Cajun:
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh, high-quality seafood will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper to your liking. Start with less and add more if needed.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked seafood becomes rubbery. Cook it just until it's opaque and cooked through.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, pairs perfectly with this dish.
Variations:
- Vegetable Medley: Add other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or mushrooms for a heartier meal.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Creamy Cajun: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Andouille Sausage: For a meatier dish, add 1/2 pound of sliced Andouille sausage along with the onions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Seafood Cajun Recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals that are perfect for busy weeknights. The quick dinner ideas presented here are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delicious flavors of homemade cooking and discover the best recipes for a memorable meal! This recipe is a wonderful addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.