Introduction
If you’re craving a seafood dish with bold, rich flavors, this New Orleans barbecue shrimp recipe is the perfect choice. Known for its buttery, spicy, and flavorful sauce, this dish is a classic in New Orleans cuisine. Interestingly, despite its name, barbecue shrimp has little to do with traditional grilling or barbecuing. Instead, the shrimp are cooked in a skillet in a tangy, spicy butter sauce that brings out the best of Southern Louisiana cooking.
This dish, often served with crusty French bread to soak up every last drop of sauce, has become a beloved favorite among shrimp lovers. It’s simple to make but delivers complex, bold flavors in every bite. This New Orleans barbecue shrimp recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, offering the perfect balance of spice, butter, and seafood.
What is Barbecue Shrimp?
At its core, barbecue shrimp is a dish that exemplifies the bold, hearty flavors of Southern cuisine. Despite what its name suggests, it has nothing to do with grilling or smoking meats. Instead, the term “barbecue” refers to the style of seasoning and cooking used in this recipe, which originates from the iconic Southern city of New Orleans.
The dish was first popularized in the 1950s by Pascal’s Manale, a restaurant that has since become famous for its rendition of barbecue shrimp. Traditionally, cooks simmer shrimp in a sauce made of butter, Worcestershire sauce, lemon, garlic, and Cajun or Creole seasonings. This method creates a sauce that is both savory and tangy, with just the right amount of heat. The dish reflects the vibrant, bold spirit of New Orleans, where food and culture intertwine deeply.
One of the most distinctive features of New Orleans barbecue shrimp is the use of whole shrimp, often cooked with the shells on. The shells help to infuse the sauce with additional flavor. While eating the shrimp with the shells can be a bit messy, it’s all part of the experience, especially when served with plenty of bread to soak up the sauce.
Key Ingredients for Barbecue Shrimp
A standout feature of the New Orleans barbecue shrimp recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need a long list of ingredients, but it’s essential to use the right ones. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the dish’s rich and flavorful profile.
Shrimp:
This is the star of the dish, and quality matters. Wild-caught Gulf shrimp are preferred for their superior flavor. You can use either peeled or shell-on shrimp. Shell-on shrimp provide more flavor as they cook, but peeled shrimp are easier to eat. Look for large shrimp, typically 16-20 count or larger, to ensure they stand up to the rich sauce.
Worcestershire Sauce:
This is one of the key ingredients in the sauce. It brings a deep, savory flavor that balances the richness of the butter and the tanginess of the lemon. It’s essential not to skip or substitute this ingredient as it forms the base of the sauce.
Beer:
Traditional barbecue shrimp recipes often call for beer. A dark or amber beer, such as Abita Amber, which is brewed in Louisiana, works best. The beer adds depth and richness to the sauce, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute it with shrimp or chicken stock.
Butter:
Butter is one of the most important components of the sauce. It adds richness and helps create the creamy texture that makes this dish so indulgent. Be sure to use unsalted butter, as salted butter can make the dish overly salty.
Cajun or Creole Seasoning:
This seasoning blend adds the signature spice to the dish. Brands like Slap Ya Mama or Zatarain’s work well. Cajun seasoning tends to be spicier, while Creole seasoning has more herbs. Feel free to adjust the quantity based on your preferred spice level.
Garlic and Lemon:
These ingredients add brightness and balance to the sauce. Garlic provides a savory kick, while lemon adds acidity that cuts through the richness of the butter.
Hot Sauce:
A dash or two of hot sauce, such as Crystal or Tabasco, adds heat. Louisiana hot sauce is traditional, but you can adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
These key ingredients work together to create the unique flavor profile of this Cajun barbecue shrimp dish. It’s all about balancing richness, spice, and acidity to create a sauce that’s perfect for soaking up with bread.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Barbecue Shrimp
Let’s walk through how to make this delicious New Orleans barbecue shrimp recipe step-by-step. The beauty of this dish is how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by washing the shrimp under cold water and then drying them with paper towels. If you’re using shell-on shrimp, leave the shells on for extra flavor. If you prefer peeled shrimp, go ahead and peel them before starting the recipe. Either option works, but shell-on shrimp will give you a richer sauce as the shells release flavor while cooking.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a large skillet, combine the Worcestershire sauce, beer, minced garlic, Cajun or Creole seasoning, a bay leaf, and several dashes of hot sauce. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it comes to a boil. The Worcestershire sauce and beer create a rich base, while the garlic and seasoning infuse the sauce with spice and flavor. Be sure to taste the sauce at this stage to adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Once the sauce is boiling, add the shrimp to the skillet. Toss them in the sauce to ensure they are well coated. Cover the skillet and cook the shrimp over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, depending on the size of the shrimp. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque.Take care not to overcook the shrimp, or they may turn tough.
Step 4: Emulsify the Sauce
Once the shrimp are fully cooked, take the skillet off the heat. Stir in the lemon juice, then add the cold, cubed butter gradually, stirring constantly. This step is crucial for emulsifying the sauce. The cold butter helps create a smooth, creamy texture, while the lemon juice brightens the flavors. Keep stirring until the butter is fully incorporated and the sauce is thick and shiny.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish and pour the sauce over them. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve the shrimp with plenty of crusty French bread on the side. The bread is essential for soaking up the rich, flavorful sauce, making every bite a delight.
This barbecue shrimp recipe is quick, easy, and full of flavor. You’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again for its bold, comforting taste.
Variations of Barbecue Shrimp
One of the best aspects of the New Orleans barbecue shrimp recipe is how customizable it is. You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your personal preferences without compromising the dish’s overall flavor.
Less Spicy:
If you prefer a milder dish, simply reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning and hot sauce. You can also substitute black pepper for white pepper to cut down on the heat. The key to this dish is balance, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different levels of spice.
Alcohol-Free Version:
If you’d rather not use beer in the recipe, you can replace it with shrimp, chicken, or vegetable stock. The stock will still provide a flavorful base for the sauce, and you won’t miss the beer. You can also add a little extra Worcestershire sauce to deepen the flavor if needed.
Peeled vs. Shell-On Shrimp:
Traditionally, barbecue shrimp is made with shell-on shrimp to add flavor, but it’s perfectly fine to use peeled shrimp. Peeled shrimp are easier to eat and more convenient for a quick meal. If you do use peeled shrimp, try to find large ones to ensure they don’t overcook quickly.
Herb Substitutions:
In Cajun barbecue shrimp dishes, chefs commonly use rosemary, but they can experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano. Fresh herbs add another layer of flavor and can be adjusted to individual preferences.If you’re not a fan of rosemary’s strong flavor, try a milder herb like parsley or dill.
Creamier Sauce:
For an even richer sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream at the end of cooking. This will create a creamier, thicker sauce that coats the shrimp beautifully. Just be careful not to overpower the other flavors with too much cream.
These variations allow you to tailor the recipe to your specific tastes while maintaining the essence of the original dish.
Best Ways to Serve Barbecue Shrimp
One of the highlights of this New Orleans barbecue shrimp recipe is the versatility in how you can serve it. The sauce is the star, and there are several ways to enjoy it to the fullest.
French Bread:
The most traditional and popular way to serve barbecue shrimp is with crusty French bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up the rich, buttery sauce, and it provides a satisfying texture contrast to the tender shrimp. Be sure to have plenty of bread on hand, as your guests will want to mop up every last bit of sauce.
Rice or Grits:
For a more filling meal, you can serve the shrimp over a bed of rice or grits. The grains absorb the flavorful sauce, making for a comforting and hearty dish. Grits, in particular, are a great option if you want to keep the Southern feel of the meal. Creamy grits pair beautifully with the tangy, spicy sauce.
Vegetables or Corn:
If you’re looking to lighten up the dish a bit, serve it alongside grilled or roasted vegetables. Corn on the cob is a classic Southern side that complements the rich flavors of the barbecue shrimp recipe. Grilled asparagus, sautéed spinach, or a simple side salad can also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce.
Polenta:
Another fantastic option is serving the shrimp over creamy polenta. Polenta’s smooth, creamy texture pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of the sauce. You can even add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to the polenta for an extra layer of richness.
Pairings:
When it comes to drink pairings, a cold beer or a glass of white wine works well. Beer, especially a light lager or a crisp pilsner, cuts through the richness of the butter. If you prefer wine, go for something acidic like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which will complement the lemon and garlic in the sauce.
Tips for Perfect Barbecue Shrimp
Cooking the perfect New Orleans barbecue shrimp recipe is easier than you might think, but there are a few tips to ensure success every time.
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp are ideal for this recipe, as their natural sweetness balances the spicy, tangy sauce. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp work well too. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.
- Cold Butter is Key: The most important tip for getting the sauce right is to use cold butter. Adding cold, cubed butter at the end of cooking helps emulsify the sauce, giving it a smooth, velvety texture. If the butter melts too quickly, the sauce may separate, so be sure to add it slowly and stir constantly.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Different brands of Cajun or Creole seasoning can vary greatly in terms of spice and salt content. Taste the sauce as it cooks, and adjust the seasoning gradually. It’s easier to add more seasoning than to fix an overly salty or spicy dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, usually in 3-5 minutes. Overcooking them can result in rubbery, tough shrimp, which is not what you want in this dish. Keep an eye on the shrimp as they cook, and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Serve Immediately: Barbecue shrimp is best served hot and fresh. The sauce is at its best when it’s just made, so be sure to serve the dish right away for the best flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is it called BBQ shrimp if it’s not grilled?
The term “BBQ” in New Orleans barbecue shrimp refers to the Southern cooking style rather than traditional grilling. The dish is cooked in a skillet with a rich sauce instead of being grilled or smoked.
Can I use peeled shrimp instead of shell-on shrimp?
Yes, peeled shrimp are perfectly fine to use in this recipe. Shell-on shrimp provide extra flavor, but peeled shrimp make for easier eating. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking peeled shrimp.
What’s the difference between Cajun and Creole seasoning?
Cajun seasoning tends to be spicier, with more focus on peppers and heat. Creole seasoning, on the other hand, has a more herbaceous flavor and often includes ingredients like thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Both are delicious in this barbecue shrimp recipe, but they bring slightly different flavor profiles.
Can I make this recipe with less butter?
You can reduce the amount of butter, but keep in mind that the butter is essential for creating the rich, emulsified sauce. For a lighter version, try using half the amount of butter and adding a little extra stock or beer to make up for the reduced fat.
Can barbecue shrimp be made without alcohol?
Absolutely. If you prefer not to use beer, simply substitute it with shrimp, chicken, or vegetable stock. You’ll still get a flavorful sauce, though it may be slightly less rich without the beer.
Nutritional Information
New Orleans barbecue shrimp recipe is undeniably rich, thanks to the generous amount of butter. However, shrimp are naturally low in calories and high in protein, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. Each serving of this dish provides a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.
If you’re looking to make the dish a bit lighter, consider reducing the butter by half and serving it with a lighter side like steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also serve the shrimp over whole grains like brown rice or quinoa for added fiber.
For those watching their sodium intake, be mindful of the type of Cajun seasoning you use, as some brands can be quite salty. Opt for a low-sodium version or make your own seasoning blend to control the salt content.
Conclusion
This New Orleans barbecue shrimp recipe is a perfect representation of bold, flavorful Cajun cuisine. With its rich, buttery sauce, spicy seasonings, and succulent shrimp, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a casual weeknight meal, it’s quick and easy to prepare while delivering complex flavors that will leave you craving more.
Serve it with crusty French bread, rice, or vegetables to soak up every last bit of the sauce. Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations. This is a dish that’s meant to be enjoyed and shared, capturing the essence of New Orleans’ vibrant culinary culture.
So why not give this New Orleans barbecue shrimp recipe a try? You’ll soon understand why it’s a favorite in Southern kitchens and beyond.