Louisiana Shrimp Creole is a tasty dish made with juicy shrimp, fresh tomatoes, and a blend of spices. It’s hearty and full of flavor, making your taste buds dance!
This dish reminds me of cozy family dinners. Serve it over rice and enjoy! Trust me, the aroma while cooking will have everyone craving a bowl. 🍤👌
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are best for this dish. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp. If you have a shellfish allergy, consider using chicken, firm tofu, or even vegetables like zucchini as alternatives.
Vegetables: The trinity of onion, celery, and bell pepper is essential for flavor. If you don’t have green bell peppers, try using a red or yellow one instead for a sweeter taste. You can also throw in some chopped carrots for extra color and sweetness.
Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes are easy to use, but fresh ripe tomatoes can work as well. If fresh tomatoes are available, use about 4-5 chopped. You can skip the tomato sauce if you prefer a lighter dish.
Creole Seasoning: This is key for that true Louisiana flavor. If you don’t have it, you can make your own with paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and some cayenne pepper. Adjust based on your spice preference!
How Do You Get the Shrimp Just Right?
Cooking shrimp perfectly is all about timing. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep an eye on them! Here’s how to do it:
- Add shrimp to the simmering sauce and cook for 5-7 minutes.
- Watch for them to change color to a vibrant pink and curl slightly.
- Remove from heat as soon as they’re cooked to avoid overcooking.
- Always taste a piece to make sure it’s tender and flavorful!
How to Make Louisiana Shrimp Creole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning (or Cajun seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 1 cup cooked white rice (for serving)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: sliced jalapeño or cayenne pepper for additional heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Louisiana Shrimp Creole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions, celery, and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become soft and translucent. This creates a flavorful base for your dish.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Garlic adds a delicious aroma and flavor, so make sure not to skip this step!
3. Mix in the Sauce Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, Creole seasoning, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Simmer the Sauce:
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly—yum!
5. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the sauce and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them to keep them tender and juicy.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Taste your Shrimp Creole and adjust the seasoning as needed. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or hot sauce based on your preference.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your shrimp creole hot over a fluffy bed of cooked white rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your flavorful and comforting Louisiana Shrimp Creole! It’s a dish that brings warmth and joy to every bite. 🌶️🍤
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them first for even cooking. Thaw shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes before using.
What Can I Substitute for Creole Seasoning?
If you don’t have Creole seasoning, you can make your own by combining paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of dried thyme. Adjust the amounts to fit your spice preference!
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also increase the amount of hot sauce to suit your taste. Just remember to start with a little and add more as needed!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the shrimp ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stove and add a little extra freshness with a splash of hot sauce!
