Spicy New Orleans Inspired Shrimp

Spicy New Orleans-Style Shrimp with a Kick

This recipe captures the bold flavors of New Orleans with a kick of spice. The shrimp are bathed in a rich, smoky sauce with a touch of sweetness, perfect for serving over rice or grits.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, your preference)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt, to taste
• Cooked rice or grits, for serving

Cooking Guide:

1. Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season them lightly with salt and black pepper.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic, onion, and bell pepper (if using) and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Spice it Up: Stir in the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, and black pepper. Cook for 30 seconds, releasing the fragrance of the spices.
4. Add the Wet Ingredients: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Simmer the Shrimp: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan. Once melted, gently nestle the shrimp in the sauce. Simmer for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
6. Finishing Touches: Stir in the chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with salt, if needed.
7. Serve: Spoon the shrimp and sauce over cooked rice or grits. Enjoy!

Tips:

• For a richer sauce: You can substitute heavy cream for half of the chicken broth.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery. Keep an eye on them during the simmering process.
• Make it a meal: Serve the shrimp with crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce, or add a side of roasted vegetables.
• Spice it up further: If you like it extra spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few drops of your favorite hot sauce to the finished dish.
• Leftovers: Store leftover shrimp and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat until warmed through.