Ever wondered why New Orleans BBQ shrimp is so tasty? This recipe shares the secrets to its spicy, savory, and buttery flavors. It’s a Creole dish loved by many. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or new to New Orleans’ food, this recipe is a treat.
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Understanding New Orleans BBQ Shrimp: A Creole Classic
New Orleans is famous for its delicious food, thanks to Cajun and Creole cooking. Dishes like jambalayas, gumbos, and étouffée are well-known. But BBQ shrimp is special, even though it’s not BBQ. It’s sautéed shrimp in a butter sauce with garlic and Worcestershire sauce, a true Southern taste.
Origins of the Dish
The Manila men, Filipino immigrants, arrived in New Orleans in 1763. They brought their shrimping ways, including the “Shrimp Dance.” This method involved dancing to separate shrimp meat from shells.
Why It’s Called BBQ Despite No Grilling
The name “BBQ shrimp” might be confusing. It’s not grilled. Instead, it’s about the rich sauce that covers the shrimp. This sauce is made with butter, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and spices.
Traditional vs Modern Preparation Methods
Traditionally, BBQ shrimp uses head-on jumbo shrimp for flavor. But now, peeled and deveined shrimp are used for ease. Chefs might also use less butter, replacing it with chicken broth or oil for a lighter taste.
The secret to great New Orleans BBQ shrimp is the mix of flavors and fresh Gulf shrimp. It’s served with French bread to soak up the sauce. A dry white wine is often enjoyed with it.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect BBQ Shrimp
To make authentic New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp, you need a few key ingredients. Start with large, juicy shrimp, about 16/20 count per pound. This size ensures they’re tender and soak up the sauce well.
You’ll also need 3/4 cup of unsalted butter and 6 cloves of fresh garlic. These provide the base flavor.
The sauce is where the magic happens. It’s made with Cajun spices like paprika and cayenne pepper. Add dried herbs like basil and thyme, along with Creole seasoning. For depth, use Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and amber beer. Finally, add hot sauce to adjust the heat.
Here’s a quick overview of the essential ingredients for the perfect New Orleans BBQ shrimp:
- 2 lbs of large shrimp (16/20 count per pound)
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter
- 6 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1/3 cup amber beer
- Hot sauce (to taste)
- Fresh Herbs (A mix of fresh herbs like oregano, rosemary, and thyme adds a vibrant touch to any dish.)
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious New Orleans BBQ shrimp dish. It will take you straight to the heart of the Crescent City.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shrimp (16/20 count) | 2 lbs |
| Unsalted butter | 3/4 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 6 cloves |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1/3 cup |
| Cajun seasoning | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon juice | Juice of 2 lemons |
| Amber beer | 1/3 cup |
| Hot sauce | To taste |
| Fresh herbs (oregano, rosemary, thyme) | As needed |
“Perfecting New Orleans BBQ shrimp requires a harmonious blend of bold flavors and the finest fresh ingredients.”
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make perfect New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp, you need some basic kitchen tools. You’ll need a large skillet or sauté pan, measuring cups and spoons, a sharp knife, and a cutting board. These items help you prepare and cook the shrimp easily.
Required Cookware
- 8-inch skillet or sauté pan: This size pan is recommended for cooking the BBQ shrimp, allowing the ingredients to come together in the right proportions.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for the sauce and seasoning blend, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp, high-quality knife will make chopping the garlic and herbs a breeze.
- Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe and efficient surface for prepping the ingredients.
Optional but Helpful Tools
- Garlic press: This tool makes quick work of mincing the garlic, which is a key component of the dish.
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a bright, acidic note to the BBQ shrimp sauce.
- Basting brush: For evenly coating the shrimp with the flavorful sauce during cooking.
- Meat thermometer: Ensures the shrimp are cooked to the perfect temperature, avoiding overcooking.
Serving Essentials
For serving the New Orleans BBQ shrimp, you’ll need plates or shallow bowls. Also, consider pairing it with crusty French bread. This bread is great for soaking up the sauce’s delicious flavors.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shrimp Details | Choose 6-8 medium-sized shrimp, each about 5 ounces, for the recipe. |
| Butter | 2 ½ tablespoons, divided |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced |
| Calories per serving | 316kcal |
| Carbohydrates per serving | 9g |
| Protein per serving | 6g |
| Fat per serving | 29g (18g saturated) |
| Sodium per serving | 668mg |
With the right kitchen tools and equipment, you’re ready to make the authentic New Orleans BBQ shrimp recipe.
Selecting and Preparing Fresh Shrimp
To make the perfect New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp, you need the freshest, best seafood. Choose extra-large or jumbo shrimp for the best results. If your shrimp are frozen, thaw them in cold water before cooking.
For the best taste and texture, pick shrimp that are “shell split and deveined.” This makes them easier to eat. Just rinse them under cold water, then drain and they’re ready to cook.
Freshness is key when it comes to seafood. Try to get your fresh shrimp from a local fishmonger or grocer. The closer to the ocean, the better. Look for shrimp that are firm, plump, and smell sweet and briny. Stay away from any that are discolored, soft, or smell strongly of fish.
“To achieve an authentic New Orleans seafood boil, prioritize using the freshest and best-quality shrimp available.”
Now that you have your top-quality shrimp, it’s time to get them ready for the BBQ shrimp dish. Rinse the shrimp under cool water, then gently pat them dry with paper towels. They’re now ready to become a classic Crescent City dish.
The Secret to the Perfect New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Recipe
Discovering the essence of New Orleans BBQ shrimp is all about the butter sauce and Cajun spices. This dish, introduced at Pascal Manale’s in 1953, is a Creole favorite.
Mastering the Butter Sauce
The secret to the perfect BBQ shrimp sauce is mixing butter, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and beer. This sauce makes the shrimp taste amazing. Letting the sauce simmer until it thickens is key.
Spice Blend Components
- Paprika: brings a hint of smokiness and a burst of vibrant color to the dish.
- Cayenne: Provides a gentle heat that balances the richness of the butter.
- Garlic powder: Lends an aromatic foundation to the spice blend.
- Onion powder: Enhances the savory notes and complements the other spices.
Cooking Temperature Tips
Cooking the shrimp at the right temperature is important. Cook them over medium heat to keep them tender. This way, they soak up the flavors of the sauce and spices.
Mastering the butter sauce, perfecting the spice blend, and using the right cooking techniques are the secrets. Enjoy this Creole classic in your own home.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making perfect New Orleans BBQ shrimp is simple. Just follow these easy steps to create a dish full of authentic Crescent City flavors. Let’s begin!
- Start by sautéing aromatics in butter. Heat 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted. Add chopped green onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Next, add the liquid ingredients. Pour in Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, lemon juice, and a light amber beer. Stir well to mix the flavors.
- Season with herbs and spices. Add a teaspoon of Creole seasoning, a pinch of fresh rosemary, and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning as you like.
- Cook the shrimp until they’re pink and opaque. Add the large, 16/20 count shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 4-6 minutes, flipping them now and then, until they’re done.
- Finish with a rich, glossy sauce. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the remaining 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. The butter will melt, making a silky sauce that coats the shrimp perfectly.
This easy shrimp recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to make. This dish is ideal for quick weeknight meals or casual weekend gatherings. Serve it with crusty French bread for a true New Orleans-style meal.
By using these cooking techniques, you can make delicious New Orleans BBQ shrimp at home. Enjoy this Creole classic with your loved ones for a taste of the Big Easy.
Sauce Preparation and Seasoning Guide
Making the perfect New Orleans-style BBQ shrimp sauce is about adding layers of flavor. Begin by sautéing garlic, onions, and herbs in butter or oil. This step releases their oils, enriching the sauce with a savory taste.
Building Flavor Layers
After the aromatics are cooked, add liquids like beer, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. These ingredients give the sauce its tangy, slightly spicy taste. Let the mixture simmer, allowing the flavors to blend and the sauce to thicken.
Finally, add Cajun spices. A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, black pepper, and herbs like oregano and thyme adds a bold, New Orleans flavor. Start with small amounts and taste as you go to adjust the spice.
Adjusting Spice Levels
This BBQ shrimp recipe lets you control the heat level. For a milder sauce, use less hot sauce and cayenne. For more heat, add more. The sauce should be rich, with a mix of savory, spicy, and tangy flavors.
Try the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. The goal is a BBQ shrimp sauce that’s full of flavor, just like New Orleans.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Timing is everything when serving New Orleans BBQ shrimp. Serve them hot right after cooking for the best taste and texture. The rich sauce goes great with crusty French bread, perfect for soaking up every bit.
For a heartier meal, try serving the shrimp over steamed white rice. This lets the sauce mix with the rice, enhancing the flavors.
To add to your New Orleans-themed meal, pair the shrimp with a side salad or sautéed greens. A simple green salad or sautéed kale or spinach adds a nice contrast. Top it off with fresh parsley or green onions for color and extra flavor.
These serving ideas are perfect for a dinner party or a cozy night at home. They’ll make your New Orleans BBQ shrimp dish a hit. Enjoy the rich, buttery sauce and imagine yourself in the lively streets of New Orleans.
FAQ
What is the key to making authentic New Orleans BBQ shrimp?
The secret is the rich, buttery sauce. It’s made with Worcestershire, garlic, and Creole spices. The right mix of flavors is key to this classic dish.
How long does it take to prepare New Orleans BBQ shrimp?
It’s quick and easy, ready in 20-30 minutes. Once you prep the ingredients, cooking takes about 10-15 minutes.
What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
Use medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Look for “shell split and deveined” shrimp for easier prep.
Is there a difference between traditional and modern New Orleans BBQ shrimp?
Yes, traditional recipes often use shrimp with shells on and more butter. Modern versions use less butter and peel the shrimp for convenience.
What are the key ingredients in New Orleans BBQ shrimp?
You’ll need large shrimp, butter, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. Also, lemon juice, beer, and spices like paprika and cayenne are essential.
What tools are required to prepare this recipe?
You’ll need a large skillet, measuring cups, and a knife. A garlic press and lemon juicer are optional.
How do I properly prepare the shrimp for cooking?
Buy frozen shrimp and defrost them yourself for the best taste. Opt for shrimp that are ‘shell split and deveined’ for easier preparation. Rinse under cold water and drain before cooking.
What’s the secret to the perfect New Orleans BBQ shrimp sauce?
The secret is the rich, buttery sauce. It’s made with Worcestershire, lemon juice, and beer, and a blend of herbs and spices adds flavor.
How do I build flavor in the BBQ shrimp sauce?
Start by sautéing aromatics in butter. Then add Worcestershire, hot sauce, lemon juice, and beer. Stir in herbs and spices. Adjust the heat to your liking.
How should I serve New Orleans BBQ shrimp?
Serve the shrimp hot, right after cooking. It’s great with crusty French bread, over rice, or with sautéed greens or a fresh salad.