shrimp etouffee recipes
Shrimp etouffee is a classic dish from Louisiana, blending the flavors of shrimp, spices, and a rich, thick sauce served over rice. This comforting meal is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Equipment
- 1 large skillet or sauté pan
- 1 wooden spoon
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 pot for cooking rice
- 1 ladle
Ingredients
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust for spiciness
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups cooked rice for serving
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the vegetable oil. Once hot, sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously to form a roux. Cook the roux until it is a deep brown color, about 15 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery (the 'holy trinity' in Cajun cooking) to the roux. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Gradually add the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Mix in the diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add the shrimp to the sauce and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Serve the shrimp etouffee over cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions.
Notes
This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors often deepen overnight.
Adjust the amount of cayenne and hot sauce according to your spice preference.
Feel free to include extra vegetables, such as okra, for additional texture and flavor.