Are you looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make seafood dish that will transport your taste buds straight to New Orleans? Look no further than this delicious Shrimp Creole recipe!

Inspired by the bold and spicy flavors of Louisiana cuisine, this dish is made with large, succulent shrimp cooked in a tomato-based creole sauce that’s flavored with classic ingredients such as bell peppers, onions, garlic, and celery. The result is a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for dinner parties or a cozy night in.

Whether you’re an accomplished home cook or just trying your hand at Creole cuisine for the first time, this recipe is sure to impress. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to whip up a soulful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of New Orleans right into your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Get ready to add some spice to your life with this delicious and bold Shrimp Creole recipe – the quintessential dish of New Orleans! If you’re looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion, look no further than this recipe.

What makes this dish so special is the unique blend of ingredients that come together to create an explosion of flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Starting with tender large shrimp simmered in a tomato-based sauce flavored with classic Cajun spices like cayenne pepper, bay leaves, celery seed, and paprika, this dish is sure to win over your heart and stomach.

But what really sets this Shrimp Creole apart from others is the addition of okra, green bell peppers, celery, and onions. These vegetables are slowly sautéed until they become soft and caramelized, infusing the dish with a smoky essence that perfectly complements the seafood. The result is a mouthwatering plate that stands out from all other shrimp dishes.

Whether you are craving comfort food or simply need to impress guests at your next dinner party, this Shrimp Creole recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. Its balance of spices and flavors coupled with its health benefits such as being high in protein and low in fat and calories make it not only delicious but also a healthy choice!

So why not add some spice to your life today? Try out this recipe and experience the warmth of New Orleans right in your own kitchen. Your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredient List

Here are the ingredients you will need to create this mouth-watering New Orleans Shrimp Creole Recipe:

Produce

1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 celery ribs, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
10 ounces of okra, sliced

Spices and Seasoning

1 teaspoon of paprika
½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon of celery seed
Salt and pepper to taste

Liquids

4 cups chicken broth
2 cups tomato sauce
1 cup dry white wine

Seafood and Dairy

2 tablespoons butter
2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
Optional: Cooked rice or brown rice for serving

With these ingredients in hand, you’ll be able to create an authentic Louisiana-style Shrimp Creole that’ll have your guests coming back for seconds.

The Recipe How-To

This shrimp creole will make your taste buds dance!

Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Once melted, add 1 cup each of chopped onions, green peppers, and celery, along with 3 cloves of garlic that are thinly sliced. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent. This classic base of Cajun cooking, called ‘The Holy Trinity,’ is crucial to building the deep and layers of flavor that define this dish.

Add Seasonings and Liquids

Next, add 1 tablespoon each of paprika and celery seeds, followed by 2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Stir until fragrant, which should take about a minute or so.

Now it’s time to add some liquids! Pour in 1 cup of dry white wine, followed by 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes with juices, and ¼ cup of tomato paste. Use a spatula to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, which will help to deepen the flavors even more!

Add the Shrimp and Okra

Once your creole mixture is brought to a boil, reduce the heat to low and stir in two bay leaves while allowing the sauce to simmer for around twenty minutes.

Afterward, gently mix in 1 pound of peeled and deveined large raw shrimp alongside 2 cups of sliced fresh or frozen okra. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and continue cooking until the shrimp turns pink (a sign they’re cooked) – about five minutes or until just cooked through!

You can serve your Creole directly from the stovetop in bowls with steaming long-grain white rice on top. Garnish with plenty of freshly chopped parsley at once!

Substitutions and Variations

Spice up your dinner with this New Orleans-inspired dish.

As with any recipe, the New Orleans Shrimp Creole Recipe can be customized to suit a range of tastes and dietary restrictions. You can make a few simple substitutions to give the dish your own unique spin without straying too far from the original recipe.

Firstly, if you are looking for a healthier option, you can swap out the butter for olive oil or coconut oil. Additionally, you can use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, and omit or reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe. You can also use brown rice instead of regular white rice, which will add more fiber and nutrients to your meal.

If you want to add a little kick to your shrimp creole, try increasing the cayenne pepper and paprika in the recipe or adding some hot sauce or diced jalapenos. For a milder flavor profile, you can omit these spices entirely or reduce the amount used.

Another variation is to add other vegetables to your creole mixture, such as diced carrots or mushrooms. You can also substitute okra with zucchini or eggplant for a different texture.

The shrimp creole recipe can also be tailored to different budgets and availability of ingredients. For instance, if large shrimp is too expensive or unavailable, medium-sized shrimp can still work well. In addition, canned diced tomatoes can be used instead of fresh tomatoes if they are not in season.

Overall, there are various ways to personalize the New Orleans Shrimp Creole recipe according to your preferences and dietary restrictions without compromising on flavor. Experiment with different substitutions and variations to create your unique version of this classic Louisiana dish.

Serving and Pairing

Let the aroma of this seasoned dish fill your kitchen.

Now that you have prepared this delicious New Orleans Shrimp Creole recipe, it’s time to take your dining experience to the next level by pairing it with complementary sides and drinks.

This spicy and hearty dish pairs perfectly with fluffy brown rice or cornbread to soak up all the flavorful sauce. A side of sautéed greens, such as collard greens or kale, adds a nutritious touch to balance out the bold taste of the shrimp creole.

For drinks, I recommend a wine that can handle the heat and spices, such as a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or an off-dry Riesling. If you prefer beer, go for a crisp lager or pale ale to cleanse your palate in between bites.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try making a classic southern cocktail like a Sazerac or a Hurricane to transport yourself straight to New Orleans. And don’t forget to garnish your cocktail with a slice of lemon or lime for added brightness.

Remember that food and drink pairing is all about finding balance in flavor, so feel free to experiment with various combinations until you find the right taste that suits your palate. With this New Orleans Shrimp Creole recipe in your arsenal, you’ll be able to impress guests with an authentic southern-style meal at any gathering.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite.

One of the best things about this New Orleans Shrimp Creole recipe is that it can be made ahead of time and is quite easy to reheat. In fact, many people find that the dish tastes even better when reheated because the flavors have had more time to meld together.

To make this dish ahead of time, you can easily prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to reheat. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the shrimp creole on medium heat in a large pot or Dutch oven until hot.

If you’re looking for ways to add more flavor to this dish after reheating, consider adding some additional spice or seasonings such as cajun seasoning or extra cayenne pepper. You can also add some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to bring some brightness back into the dish.

Another option is to freeze this dish for later consumption. Just make sure that you cool it down completely before storing it away and label it with the date. This can be kept frozen for up to three months.

When reheating a frozen New Orleans Shrimp Creole, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on medium heat. The sauce may have thickened while freezing, but that’s an easy fix: just add a little chicken broth (or water) until you reach your desired consistency.

Overall, this dish is perfect for those who want an easy-to-store and reheat meal that will still taste just as delicious as when it was freshly prepared. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want leftovers for later in the week, this recipe has got you covered

Tips for Perfect Results

This creole is comfort food with a kick.

To ensure the perfect results for your New Orleans Shrimp Creole, I have compiled a list of helpful tips that will elevate this already delicious dish to new heights.

Firstly, it is important to use fresh ingredients. The key ingredients of this recipe are the shrimp and the bell peppers, so ensure that they are of high quality, fresh and preferably locally sourced. Using fresh ingredients will enhance the flavor of the dish, making it burst with the vibrant tastes of New Orleans.

Secondly, do not overcook the shrimp. The texture of the shrimp is important in this recipe and overcooking them can result in rubbery and chewy shrimp. Remember that they only need a few minutes to cook through, so keep an eye on them and remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.

When preparing the Creole mixture, use a heavy bottom pot or Dutch oven to deepen the flavors of the dish. Sautéing the vegetables such as onion, garlic, celery and peppers slowly will allow them to build their complex flavors that are essential to Creole cooking.

While this recipe calls for brown rice, you can also serve it with white rice or crusty French bread. To add some extra va-va-voom to your Creole mixture, feel free to use some bacon in place of the butter for a more indulgent flavor.

Lastly, do not be afraid to experiment with Creole seasoning. If you like spicy food try adding more cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a fiery kick. Alternatively, you can add some Cajun seasoning mix for authentic south Louisiana taste.

By following these tips you will surely achieve perfect results every time you cook New Orleans Shrimp Creole!

FAQ

As an experienced chef, I understand how anticipating some common questions can be helpful during the cooking process. Here are some frequently asked questions along with their answers for the New Orleans Shrimp Creole recipe that will help you get the best results every time you prepare this dish.

What’s the difference between shrimp creole and shrimp etouffee?

When it comes to Cajun cuisine, the distinction between shrimp etouffee and shrimp creole lies in their key ingredients and flavors. A major difference is that the texture of shrimp etouffee leans towards a thicker, gravy-like consistency whereas shrimp creole has more of a tomato-based sauce. Additionally, shrimp etouffee carries a spicier kick thanks to its use of Cajun seasoning and strong flavors, while shrimp creole is more mild in comparison. Notably, shrimp etouffee develops its base from a roux, a blend of butter and flour, whereas shrimp creole is tomato-based.

What is the mother sauce of Creole?

Different cultures have their own unique twists on classic tomato sauce recipes. For example, Creole tomato sauce includes white wine, garlic, onions, cayenne pepper, and red bell peppers. Algerian tomato sauce is made with green and red bell peppers. Meanwhile, Portugaise tomato sauce incorporates peeled tomatoes, garlic, onions, sugar, salt, and parsley. Each of these sauces has its own distinct flavor profile and can be used to elevate a variety of dishes.

What is a famous dish made from Creole sauce?

If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful one-skillet meal, then jambalaya is definitely worth trying. This iconic dish of Creole cuisine is a rice-based recipe that typically includes a variety of vegetables and meats. The key players in this recipe are chicken and andouille sausage, while the rest of the ensemble consists of onions, peppers, garlic, and tomatoes.

What is the difference between shrimp creole and shrimp gumbo?

Creole dishes feature a thicker and more strongly-seasoned mixture compared to gumbo. The rice is cooked separately and serves as the foundation for the creole mixture, as opposed to being combined in the same pot like jambalaya. The creole mixture is thickened by simmering it rather than through the use of roux or broth.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, this New Orleans Shrimp Creole recipe is one that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. The combination of the succulent large shrimp, the flavorsome creole mixture, and the aromatic rice creates an explosion of Louisiana-style goodness in every bite. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress.

By using fresh, organic ingredients and substituting where needed, you can create a dish that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also give your body plenty of nourishment. It is perfect for serving at dinner parties or for a cozy night in with loved ones.

So, don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try. With its rich blend of spices and flavors, it’s no wonder why New Orleans Shrimp Creole is such a popular meal in Louisiana. Trust me – this recipe will become an instant favorite in your household too!

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Anna

Anna is a culinary expert who specializes in grilling delicious BBQ dishes. She also enjoys sharing her recipes and experiences with her foodie community on her blog. She’s the total package for any backyard barbecue!

Delicious Shrimp Creole Recipe: A Traditional Louisiana Dish