Shrimp Creole Recipe
Overview
Discover the flavors of the South with this classic Shrimp Creole recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish combines tender shrimp with a rich, flavorful tomato-based sauce served over fluffy rice. Let’s dive into the details of how to prepare this delicious Cajun dish!
Ingredients
- 1 lb raw shrimp
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/3 cup bell pepper, diced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Hot sauce (optional, to taste)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 134
- Total Fat: 6.3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.9g
- Cholesterol: 86.4mg
- Sodium: 406.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 7.1g
- Fiber: 1.6g
- Sugar: 3.5g
- Protein: 12.8g
Instructions
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Prepare Vegetables: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, celery, parsley, and bell pepper. Saute until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add Tomatoes and Garlic: Stir in chopped tomatoes, tomato puree, and minced garlic. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Season the Sauce: Add Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), and salt to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
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Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
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Cook the Shrimp: Add the raw shrimp to the skillet. Cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
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Serve: Serve the Shrimp Creole hot over cooked rice. It pairs wonderfully with French bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Recipe Tips
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. The quality of ingredients really shines through in this dish.
- Adjusting Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of hot sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated gently before serving. The flavors often deepen when allowed to sit overnight.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp Creole is a beloved dish that captures the essence of Cajun cuisine with its robust flavors and hearty ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of the South with each delicious bite of Shrimp Creole!