Bayou Blackened Shrimp Taste of New Orleans

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook to Blackened Shrimp Goodness

Ever crave that deep, smoky, slightly spicy flavour that just screams Southern comfort? Then you need to try my blackened shrimp recipe . Honestly, one bite and you'll be hooked.

A Taste of Louisiana: Overview

This recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Louisiana straight to your kitchen. Blackened shrimp is born out of Cajun and Creole cooking traditions.

It's super easy, taking about 25 minutes total. This recipe serves 4, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

The Magic Behind the Blackening

Did you know that shrimp is a great source of lean protein? This spicy shrimp recipe is not only delicious but also relatively healthy.

Serve it at your next barbecue, or anytime you need a quick flavor bomb. What makes this recipe so special is the homemade blackening spice it's smoky, a little fiery, and downright irresistible! I find It's perfect for those shrimp tacos we all love, or tossed in a fresh pasta dish!

Crafting Your Cajun Shrimp

Okay, let's talk ingredients. We're using 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Trust me; patting them completely dry is key.

Then, we whip up a blackening spice recipe with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.

Feel free to adjust that cayenne to your heat preference.

Frying up the Blackened Shrimp

Heat up your cast iron skillet with olive oil and butter. That cast iron gives an amazing sear! Don't overcrowd the pan.

Cook the shrimp for 2- 3 minutes per side, until blackened and cooked through. I love serving them with lemon wedges and fresh parsley.

It's really that easy. Serve that New Orleans shrimp with your favorite dishes! Or make that blackened shrimp pasta you've been craving.

Enjoy these easy shrimp recipes

Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Blackened Shrimp

So, you wanna make some blackened shrimp ? Awesome! Here's what you'll need. Honestly, it's pretty straightforward. Don't stress if you don't have everything exactly. We can make do, you know?

Main Ingredients for Killer Blackened Shrimp

• 1 lb (454g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined. I prefer tail off, but that's just me.
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil (or vegetable oil if that's what you've got).
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, cut into bits for easier melting.

Quality Indicators? Shrimp should smell fresh, not fishy. You know? Like the sea, not the bottom of it!

Blackening Spice: Your Flavor Secret Weapon

• 2 teaspoons (8g) paprika the sweet kind, not smoked yet .
• 1 teaspoon (4g) garlic powder.
• 1 teaspoon (4g) onion powder.
• 1 teaspoon (4g) dried oregano.
• 1 teaspoon (4g) dried thyme.
• ½ teaspoon (2g) cayenne pepper (adjust this! I like it hot!).
• ½ teaspoon (2g) black pepper.
• ½ teaspoon (3g) salt.

Spice Note: Honestly, sometimes I throw in a pinch of smoked paprika. It adds such a nice depth. If you don't have oregano or thyme, Italian seasoning is your buddy.

And if you're watching your sodium, ease up on the salt or use a low-sodium substitute.

Essential Gear for Cajun Shrimp Greatness

• A large cast iron shrimp skillet. If you don't have one, a heavy bottomed skillet will do in a pinch.
• A small bowl.
• A fork or whisk.
• Paper towels seriously, don't skip this.

That's it! No fancy stuff needed. Blackened seafood is all about technique, not gadgets. Just thinking about these spices is making me want some new orleans shrimp .

Bayou Blackened Shrimp: Taste of New Orleans

Fancy a trip to the bayou without leaving your kitchen? This blackened shrimp recipe delivers just that! It is so good! We're talking about juicy shrimp, coated in a blackening spice recipe that'll wake up your taste buds.

This dish is simple, fast, and packed with flavor.

Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Mission

• First, pat those shrimp dry with paper towels. Honestly, don't skip this! It is essential for getting that awesome crust.
• Next, mix all your spices together in a small bowl. Time saving tip: Measure them out beforehand so it's a breeze when you're ready to cook.
• Important safety: Make sure to have your fan ready; this might get a bit smokey.

step-by-step: Blackening Bonanza

1. Pat 1 lb of large shrimp dry.
2. Mix 2 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp oregano, 1 tsp thyme, 0.5 tsp cayenne, 0.5 tsp black pepper, and 0.5 tsp salt.
3. Toss shrimp with the spice mix.
4. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a cast iron skillet on high.
5. Add shrimp in a single layer.
6. Cook for 2- 3 minutes per side, until blackened.
7. Serve with lemon wedges and parsley.

Pro Tips: Bayou Boss Moves

Want to level up your cajun shrimp game? First, use a cast iron skillet. Seriously, it makes all the difference for even heat.

Second, don't overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches. It might be quick, but it's important. Also, if you're not into the heat, you can adjust the cayenne pepper to your preference.

For a twist, you can try making blackened shrimp pasta !

What to avoid? Overcooking! Nobody wants rubbery shrimp. Pro tip: If you're making shrimp tacos , this recipe is a winner! You can have an easy shrimp recipe ready in no time.

This spicy shrimp recipe is versatile and always a crowd pleaser. Another secret? Add smoked paprika in the spice blend for a smoky note.

This recipe makes about 4 servings and each serving will be about 250 calories, depending on how much you eat.

Whether you're new to blackened seafood or a seasoned cook, get ready to enjoy a taste of New Orleans. Also, this new orleans shrimp is very versatile: think blackened shrimp tacos or even a creamy pasta dish.

Recipe Notes: Making Your Blackened Shrimp Amazing

So, you're ready to rock this blackened shrimp recipe ? Awesome! Let's nail those little details for perfectly cooked, flavor packed shrimp every time.

Honestly, the cajun shrimp flavor is so addictive. I almost always make extra of the blackening spice recipe , just to have it on hand!

Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro

Think presentation! For a simple but elegant plate, arrange the blackened shrimp around a mound of fluffy rice. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and a lemon wedge brighten things up.

If you’re making shrimp tacos , a colorful slaw adds crunch and visual appeal. Don't forget a refreshing margarita or a cold New Orleans shrimp style beer!

Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days . For longer storage, you can freeze the blackened seafood , but the texture might change a bit.

To reheat, sauté gently in a pan with a little butter or oil until warmed through. Avoid microwaving , as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Variations: Making it Your Own

Want to switch things up? For a healthier twist, skip the butter and use only olive oil. Or try it with chicken if you prefer.

If you are on a keto diet, this could be a great meal for you! Need a gluten-free option? Just make sure your blackening spice recipe doesn't contain any sneaky gluten.

Seasonal ingredient swaps? In the summer, try using fresh herbs from your garden in the spice blend for a vibrant twist.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness Inside

This spicy shrimp recipe is packed with protein and relatively low in carbs, making it a satisfying and healthy choice.

Each serving is roughly 250 calories . The easy shrimp recipes like this are also a good source of selenium and omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your heart.

Listen, whether you’re cooking blackened shrimp pasta or throwing them on the barbie, the most important ingredient is love. So, go on, have fun with it, and don’t be afraid to experiment! This recipe is the best, and if you have a cast iron shrimp cooker, even better.

You got this!.