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Shrimp Étouffée

Shrimp Étouffée is a classic Cajun dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich, flavorful sauce, served over rice. This comforting dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine Cajun/Creole
Servings 4 People
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large skillet or sauté pan
  • 1 wooden spoon or spatula
  • 1 measuring cups
  • 1 measuring spoons
  • 1 rice cooker or pot for cooking rice
  • 1 cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour For the roux.
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper Increase for spiciness.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 4 cups cooked white rice For serving.
  • 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
  • Gradually whisk in the flour to create a roux. Stir constantly for about 15-20 minutes until the roux turns a light brown color, similar to peanut butter.
  • Once the roux is ready, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  • Add the chicken broth, tomato paste, cayenne pepper, paprika, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  • Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
  • Add the shrimp and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
  • Remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  • Serve the shrimp étouffée over a bed of cooked white rice.
  • Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped parsley as desired.

Notes

For a spicier version, increase the amount of cayenne pepper to taste.
Feel free to add other vegetables such as okra or diced tomatoes for additional flavor and texture.
This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, as the flavors continue to develop over time.