Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Creole seasoning
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 3 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups shrimp stock or chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp: Start by seasoning the shrimp with a generous sprinkle of Creole seasoning. This step infuses the shrimp with that signature Cajun kick. Set them aside to let the flavors meld.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Toss in the holy trinity of onion, green bell pepper, and celery, followed by minced garlic. Cook until everything softens and starts to smell divine—about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Make the Roux: Now, sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Let the mixture cook for a couple of minutes. This step is crucial because it forms the base of the sauce and gives it that velvety smoothness.
- Add the Stock: Gradually pour in the shrimp stock while stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring there are no lumps. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. The sauce will thicken and become irresistibly rich.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet along with Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and a bit more Creole seasoning. Let everything simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll know the shrimp are ready when they turn pink and opaque.
- Final Touches: Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Just before serving, stir in fresh green onions and parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve your Cajun Shrimp Étouffée over steamed rice, and get ready to savor every bite!
Notes
- Don’t Rush the Roux: Achieving the right consistency in your roux is key to nailing this recipe. Be patient and keep stirring!
- Customize the Heat: Love spice? Add a bit more hot sauce or cayenne pepper. Prefer it milder? Use less Creole seasoning.
- Fresh Shrimp Works Best: Opt for fresh shrimp whenever possible for the best flavor and texture.
- Prep Ahead: Chop your veggies and measure out your ingredients before you start. It makes the cooking process so much smoother.
- Serving Suggestion: This dish is best enjoyed over fluffy white rice or even crusty French bread to soak up the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing and Simmerin
- Cuisine: Cajun, Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 300kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 170mg