Low Country Shrimp Creole
Are you ready to bring a taste of coastal charm to your kitchen? This Creole shrimp is a delightful fusion of vibrant flavors and rich textures, inspired by the heart of Carolina’s coastal cuisine. Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, this dish combines succulent shrimp with a savory blend of tomatoes, Creole spices, and a touch of heat, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and discover the magic of Creole cooking in every bite.
Ingredients
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 cup celery, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
14 oz chicken broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 ½ lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 bay leaves
1 tsp Creole seasoning (adjust to taste)
Salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper to taste
Rice for serving
Instructions
Sauté Vegetables: Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and bell pepper, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened.
Add Garlic and Flour: Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Create Sauce: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.
Season: Add the Creole seasoning, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp and bay leaves to the skillet. Cover and cook for another 4 – 5 minutes until the shrimp are cooked through.
Serve: Let the Creole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving over cooked rice.
Tools Needed
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Ladle (for serving)
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.
Betty’s Pro Tips
Fresh Shrimp: Always opt for fresh, wild-caught shrimp if available. Fresh shrimp will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
Prep Ingredients in Advance: Having all your ingredients chopped and ready to go will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Homemade Creole Seasoning: For a personalized touch, consider making your own Creole seasoning blend. This allows you to adjust the spice level to your preference.
Simmer for Flavor: Letting the sauce simmer longer allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. If time permits, cook the sauce on low heat for an additional 15-20 minutes before adding the shrimp.
Rice Options: While white rice is traditional, you can switch it up with brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a healthier alternative.
Garnish: Fresh herbs like parsley or green onions add a pop of color and fresh flavor to the finished dish. Add them just before serving.
Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Balance the Heat: If you’re not a fan of too much heat, start with a smaller amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce, then adjust to taste. You can always add more if needed.
Add Depth with Stock: Use shrimp stock instead of chicken broth for an added layer of seafood flavor. You can make shrimp stock by simmering shrimp shells with water, onions, garlic, and herbs.
Accompaniments: Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and consider a light green salad to balance the richness of the dish.