Shrimp Etouffee

Shrimp Etouffee is a classic Cajun dish known for its rich flavors and comforting warmth. This recipe combines tender shrimp with a flavorful roux-based sauce, aromatic vegetables, and a blend of Cajun seasonings. The dish is served over rice, making it a satisfying and hearty meal that captures the essence of Louisiana cuisine.

Perfect for seafood enthusiasts and those seeking a taste of Southern comfort, Shrimp Etouffee promises to deliver a deliciously spicy kick alongside its savory notes, complemented by the freshness of green onions and parsley.

Shrimp Etouffee

Ingredients:

1⅓ pounds shrimp shelled, deveined & clean

1 cup butter 2 sticks

1 cup chopped onion

1 cup chopped green bell pepper

1 cup chopped celery

2 cloves garlic minced

5 Tablespoons all purpose flour

1⅔ cup seafood stock

1-1¼ teaspoons salt

½ lemon juiced

¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper to taste, optional

½-1 teaspooon Creole/Cajun seasoning we love Tony Chachere’s

¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

½ cup chopped green onions

¼ cup chopped parsley

Instructions:

Melt butter over medium high heat. Reduce heat to medium and add bell pepper, celery and onions and cook about 5-7 minutes, adding garlic in the last 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Stir in flour and salt, stirring to keep it smooth. Cook, stirring constantly until the sauce is lightly browned. This should take about 7-8 minutes.

Add shrimp, stock, lemon juice and seasoning. Cook, stirring until shrimp are done – about 5-6 minutes

Stir in green onion and parsley, reserving a little if desired for garnish.

Serve over rice.

Notes:

Butter for Flavor: Using a generous amount of butter enhances the richness and flavor of the dish, typical of traditional Cajun cooking.

Trinity of Vegetables: The combination of onions, bell peppers, and celery, known as the Cajun holy trinity, forms the aromatic base that gives depth to the etouffee sauce.

Roux Technique: Cooking the flour with the vegetables and butter forms a roux, which thickens the sauce and adds a nutty flavor. Stirring constantly prevents lumps and ensures even browning.

Seafood Stock: Using seafood stock intensifies the seafood flavor profile of the dish, enhancing the shrimp without overpowering it.

Seasonings: Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika provide the characteristic spicy and smoky notes typical of Cajun cuisine. Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your preference for heat.

Fresh Herbs: Chopped green onions and parsley add freshness and a pop of color to the dish, balancing the richness of the sauce.

Shrimp Cooking: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp. They cook quickly, so add them towards the end of the cooking process and stir gently until just opaque and cooked through.

Serving: Serve the Shrimp Etouffee over rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. Garnish with additional green onions and parsley for a fresh finish.

Customization: Feel free to adjust the spice level and seasoning to your taste. Etouffee is versatile and can be adapted based on personal preferences.

Enjoyment: This dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends, offering a taste of Louisiana cuisine with its bold flavors and comforting appeal.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

What kind of shrimp should I use?

Use medium to large shrimp (about 21-25 count per pound) for best results.

They hold up well in the sauce and provide a good texture.

What is Creole/Cajun seasoning, and can I make it at home?

Creole/Cajun seasoning is a blend of spices typically including paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and other herbs.

You can make your own blend or use a commercial one like Tony Chachere’s.

Can I adjust the spiciness of this dish?

Yes, you can adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of cayenne pepper and Creole/Cajun seasoning according to your taste preferences.

Is shrimp etouffee spicy?

Traditionally, shrimp etouffee has a mild to moderate level of spiciness.

Adjust the cayenne pepper and seasoning to suit your spice tolerance.

Can I use chicken stock instead of seafood stock?

While seafood stock is ideal for enhancing the seafood flavor, you can substitute chicken stock if needed. The flavor profile will be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover shrimp etouffee in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

What should I serve with shrimp etouffee?

Shrimp etouffee is traditionally served over white rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.

It pairs well with a side of crusty bread or cornbread.

Can I use other types of seafood instead of shrimp?

Yes, you can substitute shrimp with other seafood such as crawfish tails or even a combination of different seafood like shrimp and crab meat.

Is shrimp etouffee gluten-free?

The base ingredients of shrimp etouffee (shrimp, vegetables, spices) are naturally gluten-free.

To ensure the dish is gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce instead of all-purpose flour.