Large skillet or sauté pan: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet works best for evenly cooking the shrimp and vegetables without sticking.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Ideal for stirring and scraping up any flavorful bits from the pan.
Chef’s knife: A sharp, reliable knife is essential for chopping onions, bell peppers, and celery effortlessly.
Cutting board: Use a sturdy, non-slip board to prep your ingredients safely.
Garlic press (optional): Speeds up the process of mincing garlic for those who love convenience.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasonings:
1poundof Gulf shrimppeeled and deveined: Fresh shrimp is ideal, but frozen works well too—just be sure to thaw them completely.
2teaspoonsof Cajun seasoning: Adds a spicysmoky kick.
1teaspoonof paprika: For a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
1/2tspof garlic powder: Enhances the savory undertones.
Salt and black pepperto taste: Essential for balancing flavors.
Vegetables and Aromatics:
1medium onionfinely chopped: Adds depth and sweetness to the dish.
1green bell pepperdiced: A classic component of Louisiana cooking.
2stalks of celerysliced: Completes the "holy trinity" of Creole cuisine.
3garlic clovesminced: Brings bold, aromatic notes to the sauce.
Liquids and Finishing Touches:
1cupof chicken or seafood stock: Provides a richflavorful base for the sauce.
1/2cupof diced tomatoescanned or fresh: Adds acidity and balance.
1tablespoonof Worcestershire sauce: Infuses the dish with a tangy depth.
2tablespoonsof fresh parsleychopped: A vibrant garnish that ties it all together.
Juice of 1 lemon: Brightens the flavors and complements the shrimp.
Optional Additions:
1/4teaspoonof cayenne pepper: For those who love an extra spicy kick.
Crusty bread or cooked rice: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper and celery. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Add the diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and chicken or seafood stock to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt or cayenne pepper if you prefer more heat.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Gently add the seasoned shrimp to the simmering sauce in a single layer.
Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the shrimp and sauce to brighten the flavors.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a vibrant and aromatic garnish.