New Orleans-Style Barbecued Shrimp

Rate this recipe
Be the first to rate
By Published

Are you ready to take your taste buds on a trip to the vibrant city of New Orleans?

Jump to recipePin it
New Orleans-Style Barbecued Shrimp
Prep
35 min
Cook
15 min
Total
35 min
Servings
2

Method

  1. Preheat a large skillet on medium-high heat.

  2. Add olive oil, shallot, and garlic to the skillet.

  3. Cook while stirring frequently with a wooden spoon until shallots are soft and fragrant (approximately 2 minutes).

  4. Add lemon slices to the skillet and cook until they start to brown (around 1 minute).

  5. Stir in shrimp, paprika, thyme, black pepper, and salt.

  6. Pour Worcestershire sauce and 3 tablespoons of water into the skillet. Bring the liquid to a simmer.

  7. Cook while stirring often until the shrimp begin to turn pink (about 2 minutes).

  8. Add butter cubes to the skillet and swirl the pan to combine.

  9. Allow the sauce to simmer until the shrimp turn pink and are fully opaque (approximately 3 to 4 minutes).

  10. Serve with plenty of napkins and some crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

About this recipe

New Orleans-Style Barbecued Shrimp: A Taste of the Bayou

Are you ready to take your taste buds on a trip to the vibrant city of New Orleans? Look no further than the iconic New Orleans-style barbecued shrimp. This mouthwatering dish is a true reflection of the city's rich culinary heritage, combining succulent shrimp with a flavorful blend of spices and seasonings. Just one bite and you'll be transported to the heart of the bayou, savoring the bold and zesty flavors that make New Orleans cuisine so unique.

The Essence of New Orleans

When it comes to food, New Orleans is in a league of its own. From gumbo to jambalaya, the city is renowned for its diverse and vibrant culinary scene. And at the heart of it all lies the iconic New Orleans-style barbecued shrimp. This dish captures the spirit of the city, blending French, African, and Caribbean influences to create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

A Symphony of Flavors

What sets New Orleans-style barbecued shrimp apart is its bold and complex flavor profile. The shrimp are bathed in a rich and buttery sauce, infused with a medley of spices and seasonings. The combination of Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and garlic creates a tangy and slightly spicy sauce that perfectly complements the sweetness of the shrimp. Each bite is a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors that will leave you craving more.

A Culinary Adventure

Preparing New Orleans-style barbecued shrimp is not just a meal, it's a culinary adventure. The process involves marinating the shrimp in the flavorful sauce, allowing the flavors to penetrate the delicate flesh. Then, the shrimp are quickly sautéed in a hot skillet, ensuring they remain succulent and perfectly cooked. The final touch is a generous drizzle of the savory sauce, which coats the shrimp in a tantalizing glaze that begs to be sopped up with a crusty piece of French bread.

Conclusion

New Orleans-style barbecued shrimp is more than just a dish – it's a sensory experience. From the moment you take your first bite, you'll be transported to the vibrant streets of New Orleans, savoring the bold and zesty flavors that make the city's cuisine so legendary. So why not bring a taste of the bayou to your own kitchen and indulge in the culinary delights of this iconic dish? Whether you're a seafood lover or simply looking for a unique and flavorful meal, New Orleans-style barbecued shrimp is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before marinating and cooking.

. What is the best type of shrimp to use?

Fresh, large shrimp are ideal for this recipe. Look for shrimp with the shells on, as they will add extra flavor to the dish.

. Can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?

Absolutely! If you prefer a milder sauce, you can reduce the amount of hot sauce or omit it altogether. Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste.

. What can I serve with New Orleans-style barbecued shrimp?

This dish pairs well with crusty French bread, which is perfect for dipping into the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it over rice or alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best to enjoy New Orleans-style barbecued shrimp fresh, you can prepare the sauce and marinate the shrimp ahead of time. When you're ready to serve, simply cook the shrimp and heat up the sauce.

. How long does it take to cook the shrimp?

The shrimp cook quickly, usually within 2-3 minutes per side. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough and rubbery.

. Can I use a grill instead of a skillet?

Traditionally, New Orleans-style barbecued shrimp is cooked in a skillet. However, if you prefer the smoky flavors of a grill, you can certainly adapt the recipe. Just make sure to use a grill pan or skewers to prevent the shrimp from falling through the grates.

. Can I make a vegetarian version of this dish?

While the essence of New Orleans-style barbecued shrimp lies in the succulent seafood, you can certainly experiment with vegetarian alternatives. Consider marinating and grilling tofu or using vegetables like eggplant or portobello mushrooms as a substitute.

So, why wait? Embark on a culinary journey to New Orleans with the tantalizing flavors of barbecued shrimp. Whether you're a seafood lover or a fan of bold and zesty dishes, this iconic New Orleans creation is sure to leave you craving more. So grab your apron, fire up the skillet, and get ready to experience the taste of the bayou in your very own kitchen.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

More dinner

See all →