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Delicious Cajun Shrimp Étouffée Recipe
Alyssa

Delicious Cajun Shrimp Étouffée

Enjoy a flavorful Cajun Shrimp Étouffée with a rich, spicy sauce and tender shrimp over rice, bringing a taste of Louisiana to your table.
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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter 🧈 - This adds richness and depth to the roux which is fundamental for thickening the sauce.
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 🍞 - Used to create the roux; it thickens the sauce and contributes to the dish's creaminess.
  • 1 medium onion chopped 🧅 - Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor base.
  • 1 green bell pepper chopped 🫑 - Provides a slight crispness and a fresh, slightly bitter flavor.
  • 2 celery stalks chopped 🌱 - Complements the onion and bell pepper, creating the iconic “holy trinity” of Cajun cooking.
  • 3 garlic cloves minced 🧄 - Adds aromatic and savory notes.
  • 2 cups seafood or chicken stock 🍲 - Forms the base of the sauce providing moisture and flavor. Opt for homemade if possible for the best flavor.
  • 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes 🍅 - Adds acidity and sweetness while complementing the flavors of the other ingredients.
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste 🍅 - Enhances the tomato flavor and adds richness to the sauce.
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning 🌶️ - The star spice that brings authentic Cajun flavor to the dish; adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika 🌿 - Offers a smokey depth and vibrant color.
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper 🌶️ - Adds a kick; it can be adjusted for spice tolerance.
  • 1/2 tsp thyme 🌿 - Infuses dry herb notes that enhance flavor complexity.
  • 1/2 tsp oregano 🌱 - Provides a slightly sweet and peppery flavor.
  • 1 bay leaf 🍃 - Adds an aromatic element that subtly enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined 🍤 - The main protein; ensure they are fresh or properly thawed for the best texture.
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter 🧈 - Used for sautéing the shrimp adding richness.
  • Cooked white rice 🍚 - Serves as the base of the dish soaking up the flavorful sauce.
  • Chopped green onions for garnish 🌿 - Adds a fresh colorful touch to the serving.
  • Hot sauce optional 🌶️ - For those who enjoy an extra kick!

Method
 

  1. Season the Shrimp: In a medium bowl, toss 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined 🍤 with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning 🌶️. Ensure all shrimp are evenly coated, then set aside.
  2. Make the Roux: In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter 🧈 over medium heat. Once melted, add 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 🍞 and whisk continuously for about 10-15 minutes until the mixture turns a golden brown. This roux is crucial for flavor and thickness.
  3. Cook the Holy Trinity: Add the 1 medium onion, chopped 🧅, 1 green bell pepper, chopped 🫑, and 2 celery stalks, chopped 🌱 to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables have softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then add 3 garlic cloves, minced 🧄 and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Build the Sauce: Gradually whisk in 2 cups seafood or chicken stock 🍲 while ensuring there are no lumps. Stir in 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes 🍅, 1 tbsp tomato paste 🍅, 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning 🌶️, 1 tsp smoked paprika 🌿, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper 🌶️, 1/2 tsp thyme 🌿, 1/2 tsp oregano 🌱, and the 1 bay leaf 🍃. Let this simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  5. Cook the Shrimp: In a separate pan, melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter 🧈 over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and sauté until they turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Once cooked, mix the shrimp into the sauce and let it simmer together for another 2-3 minutes.
  6. Serve: Remove the bay leaf from the sauce. Serve the Cajun Shrimp Étouffée over cooked white rice 🍚, garnishing with chopped green onions 🌿. Optionally, you can offer hot sauce 🌶️ on the side for those who enjoy more heat.
  7. Follow these steps, and you’ll end up with a delicious dish that bursts with flavor and authenticity!