Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Flavor: Captures the true taste of New Orleans cuisine with a blend of Creole seasoning, fresh herbs, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Simple Preparation: Requires straightforward steps, making it accessible even for novice cooks.
- Rich and Indulgent: The combination of butter, garlic, and spices creates a luxurious sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course with crusty bread, over rice, or as a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 5 pounds medium shrimp, with shells
- 2 pounds butter
- 1 medium sweet onion, minced
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons Creole seasoning
- 2 tablespoons dried rosemary
- Ground black pepper to taste
- ½ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
Directions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp thoroughly under cold water and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced onion, garlic, and diced celery. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, approximately 5 minutes.
- Season the Mixture: Stir in the chopped parsley, Creole seasoning, dried rosemary, and ground black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavors.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and fresh lemon juice, stirring well to combine all ingredients.
- Incorporate Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, ensuring they are evenly coated with the sauce. Cook over medium heat until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the shrimp and sauce to a serving dish. This dish is best enjoyed hot, accompanied by crusty French bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spice Level Adjustment: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce. To reduce heat, use a mild Creole seasoning.
- Herb Substitutions: If you're not a fan of rosemary, consider using thyme or oregano for a different herbal note.
- Shell-On vs. Peeled Shrimp: Traditional recipes use shell-on shrimp for added flavor, but peeled shrimp can be used for easier consumption.
- Alternative Cooking Methods: While stovetop preparation is common, you can also bake the shrimp in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Place any leftover shrimp and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp and cause a rubbery texture.
FAQs
What is New Orleans-Style BBQ Shrimp?
Despite its name, New Orleans-Style BBQ Shrimp doesn't involve grilling or barbecue sauce. It's a classic Louisiana dish where shrimp are cooked in a savory butter and Worcestershire sauce blend, infused with Creole spices.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Ensure they are fully thawed and drained before cooking to prevent excess water from diluting the sauce.
Is it necessary to cook the shrimp with their shells on?
Cooking shrimp with their shells can enhance the flavor of the dish. However, for ease of eating, you can use peeled shrimp.
What type of bread pairs well with this dish?
Crusty French bread is traditionally served alongside to soak up the rich and flavorful sauce.
How can I make this dish less salty?
To reduce the saltiness, opt for unsalted butter and consider using a low-sodium Worcestershire sauce.
Can I add other seafood to this recipe?
While the classic recipe focuses on shrimp, adding other seafood like scallops or crab can create a delightful seafood medley. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
What side dishes complement New Orleans-Style BBQ Shrimp?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, grits, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the sauce.
How do I thicken the sauce if it's too thin?
If the sauce is thinner than desired, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken.
Is this dish suitable for those with shellfish allergies?
Due to its primary ingredient being shrimp, this recipe is not suitable for individuals with shellfish allergies.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
While
Real New Orleans-Style BBQ Shrimp
Experience the bold and authentic flavors of Louisiana with this New Orleans-Style BBQ Shrimp recipe. Succulent shrimp are simmered in a rich, buttery sauce infused with Creole seasoning, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and aromatic herbs. Perfectly paired with crusty French bread, this dish is a must-try for seafood lovers craving a taste of New Orleans.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Creole Southern
Ingredients
- 5 pounds medium shrimp, with shells
- 2 pounds butter
- 1 medium sweet onion, minced
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons Creole seasoning
- 2 tablespoons dried rosemary
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp thoroughly under cold water and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and celery. Cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Season the Mixture: Stir in parsley, Creole seasoning, rosemary, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to release flavors.
- Add Liquids: Pour in Worcestershire sauce and lemon juice, stirring well to combine.
- Incorporate Shrimp: Add shrimp, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cook over medium heat until pink and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer shrimp and sauce to a serving dish. Enjoy hot with crusty French bread.
Notes
- For extra spice, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Use shell-on shrimp for maximum flavor, but peeled shrimp work too.
- To thicken the sauce, simmer uncovered for a few minutes.