Are you craving a taste of New Orleans without leaving your kitchen? Then get ready to dive into this incredibly flavorful Shrimp New Orleans recipe, inspired by the iconic Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. restaurants. This dish is bursting with delicious Cajun spices and succulent shrimp, making it a perfect quick dinner idea for a weeknight meal or a delightful treat for a weekend gathering. It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners, showcasing the magic of simple, homemade cooking. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
Get Cooking!
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Prep the Veggies: Begin by finely chopping the onion, bell peppers, and celery. Mince the garlic. This step ensures even cooking and a better flavor blend. Having your ingredients prepped saves time later on.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell peppers, and celery and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
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Add the Flavor: Stir in the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their fragrant oils. This step builds the foundation of the delicious New Orleans flavor profile.
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Shrimp Time: 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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Simmer to Perfection: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the shrimp to finish cooking and the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Finishing Touches: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the butter and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve it Up: Serve your delicious Shrimp New Orleans immediately over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with extra parsley, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Fresh is Best: Using fresh shrimp will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper to your liking. Start with less and add more if you prefer a spicier dish.
- Don't Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they are pink and opaque.
- Rice Recommendation: Serve over long-grain white rice or explore other options like jasmine rice for a different textural experience.
Variations:
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Lemon Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright and zesty twist.
- Andouille Sausage: Add some sliced Andouille sausage during the sautéing stage for extra smoky flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Shrimp New Orleans recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It's a perfect choice for those looking for healthy meals without sacrificing taste. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish!