Shrimp Creole

Shrimp Creole is a classic Louisiana Creole dish that originated in New Orleans. It is a flavorful stew made with shrimp, vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce. The dish is typically seasoned with a blend of Creole spices, including paprika, cayenne pepper, and thyme, which give it a distinctive flavor.
To make shrimp Creole, peeled and deveined shrimp are first sautéed in a hot skillet until they are pink and cooked through. The shrimp is then removed from the skillet and set aside while onions, bell peppers, and celery are sautéed in the same skillet until they are tender. Tomatoes, chicken or seafood broth, and a blend of spices are added to the skillet to create a flavorful sauce, which is then simmered until it thickens.
Once the sauce has thickened, the shrimp is added back to the skillet and simmered in the sauce until heated through. The dish is typically served over white rice and garnished with chopped parsley or green onions.
Shrimp Creole is a flavorful and comforting dish that is beloved in Louisiana and beyond. It is often served at special occasions, such as Mardi Gras and other festive gatherings. The dish is also popular in other Gulf Coast states, where variations may include the addition of other seafood, such as crab or crawfish.

SERVINGS: 4

PREPARATION TIME: 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions, bell pepper, and garlic and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Stir in the green onions and parsley.
6. Serve over rice or with crusty bread.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS OR ADDITIONAL TIPS:

• Serve over rice or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• This recipe can also be made with chicken or Andouille sausage.
• Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to taste for a milder or spicier dish.