Shrimp Creole is a delightful dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of the South, especially from New Orleans. This meal combines plump, juicy shrimp with a savory tomato-based sauce, adding a medley of spices and aromatics. Perfect for any occasion, it is not only delicious but also fairly easy to prepare, making it a favorite among home cooks and food lovers alike.
Why We Love This Shrimp Creole
You will enjoy Shrimp Creole for its wonderful balance of taste and texture. The shrimp delivers a tender bite, while the sauce provides a rich, hearty complement with its blend of fresh vegetables and spices. Moreover, it’s versatile—you can adjust the heat level by playing with the spices, making it accessible to anyone who loves a good meal. The dish also offers a dose of comfort and nostalgia, often reminding you of gatherings with family and friends. The colorful presentation and aromatic aroma create a feast for both the eyes and the palate, making Shrimp Creole perfect for special occasions and weeknight dinners alike.
Ingredients for Shrimp Creole
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and celery to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Mix in the Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the sauce. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot over cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions and parsley.
How to Serve Shrimp Creole
Serving Shrimp Creole is as delightful as preparing it. Start by preparing a bed of fluffy white rice; this classic pairing absorbs the rich sauce beautifully. Once your shrimp and sauce are ready, ladle a generous portion over the rice. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or green onions on top for color and flavor.
Consider serving this dish with crusty bread on the side, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. If you’re hosting a gathering, set out additional condiments like hot sauce for guests who enjoy a bit more heat. This way, everyone can customize their plate to their liking. Lastly, pair the meal with a light salad for a fresh contrast, rounding out your dining experience.
Expert Tips for Shrimp Creole
To elevate your Shrimp Creole, consider these expert tips. First, use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh vegetables, shrimp, and herbs enhance the overall flavor of the dish. If you want a deeper flavor profile, try adding a bit of smoked paprika or even a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Make sure not to overcook the shrimp. They only need 3-5 minutes to cook through, ensuring they remain tender and juicy. If possible, let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking; this allows the flavors to blend and deepen.
Experiment with different types of rice, such as jasmine or basmati, for a unique taste. You might also consider adding other vegetables, such as diced zucchini or corn, to the mix for additional texture and flavor. Finally, remember that the dish can be scaled up or down based on the number of servings you need. It freezes well, making it an excellent option for meal prepping.
How to Store Shrimp Creole
Proper storage of your Shrimp Creole is essential for preserving its flavors. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring gently, to ensure even warming and prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
If you have leftovers that you won’t eat within that time frame, freeze your Shrimp Creole. Pack it neatly in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove. Avoid microwaving it if you can, as this can lead to uneven heating and tough shrimp.
Variations of Shrimp Creole
While this Shrimp Creole recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes. For instance, if you’re a seafood lover, try adding other seafood like crab or scallops to the mix. This not only enhances the dish but also diversifies the flavors.
You can also experiment with the sauce base. For a creamier version, incorporate a splash of cream or coconut milk into the mix. This will lend a luscious texture that complements the spices beautifully. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute shrimp with firm tofu or chickpeas and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Spice lovers might enjoy adding diced jalapeños, or you can tone down the heat by omitting hot sauce altogether. Lastly, experiment with the herbs; fresh thyme or basil can offer a different flavor profile, allowing you to make the dish your own. The beauty of Shrimp Creole lies in its adaptability, inviting a range of delightful changes.
FAQ about Shrimp Creole
What is Shrimp Creole?
Shrimp Creole is a classic Southern dish that features shrimp cooked in a spicy tomato-based sauce with vegetables and seasonings.
How can I make Shrimp Creole spicier?
You can increase the heat by adding more hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the dish.
Can I use frozen shrimp for Shrimp Creole?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp; just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
What should I serve with Shrimp Creole?
Shrimp Creole pairs well with fluffy white rice, crusty bread, or a light salad for a complete meal.
How long does Shrimp Creole last in the fridge?
Cooked Shrimp Creole can be stored in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container.
Shrimp Creole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 2 green onions chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and celery to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Mix in the Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the sauce. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serving
- Serve hot over cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions and parsley.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!