Cajun Shrimp Flambé
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the South with this tantalizing Cajun Shrimp Flambé recipe. Perfect as a sophisticated appetizer or a zesty side dish to complement your seafood or Cajun feast, this dish is both luxurious and simple to prepare. The combination of spicy Cajun seasoning, succulent shrimp, and a creamy, cheesy sauce creates a delightful explosion of taste. With a quick prep time of just 20 minutes and a cook time of 5 minutes, this recipe is ideal for those who crave a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. 🌶️🍤🧀
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1/4 cup tequila
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the Skillet: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke, setting the stage for a sizzling start.
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Cook the Shrimp: Once the oil is hot, add the large shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute on each side, or until they turn a beautiful pink color and are just cooked through. Avoid overcooking to maintain their tender texture.
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Sauté Garlic and Onion: Add the minced garlic and finely chopped red onion to the skillet. Stir continuously for approximately 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant and the onion becomes translucent. This will infuse the shrimp with aromatic flavors.
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Flambé the Shrimp: Carefully pour in the tequila. Using a long lighter or match, ignite the alcohol to flambé the shrimp. Allow the flame to subside naturally, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This step adds a deep, complex flavor to the dish.
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Add Cream and Cilantro: Reduce the heat to medium-low, then stir in the heavy cream and chopped cilantro. The cream will meld with the shrimp juices, creating a rich, velvety sauce.
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Season and Thicken: Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, and stir well to ensure the shrimp and sauce are evenly coated. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside while the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
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Bake with Cheese: Transfer the shrimp to a baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce over the shrimp, making sure they are well covered. Generously sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top.
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Broil Until Bubbling: Place the baking dish in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven. Bake for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The cheese should be golden brown on top, adding a delightful crunch.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional whole cilantro leaves if desired. Serve the Cajun Shrimp Flambé immediately for the best flavor and texture. Pair with a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 375.4
- Fat: 29.6g
- Saturated Fat: 15.7g
- Cholesterol: 196.3mg
- Sodium: 290.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 3.4g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Protein: 23.8g
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it a wonderful choice for a dinner party or a festive gathering. Enjoy the bold flavors and creamy textures that this Cajun Shrimp Flambé brings to the table! 🎉🍽️🔥