Description
This Cajun Shrimp Rice has shrimp, white wine, chicken broth, lemon, onion, garlic and simmered to perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp Marinade:
- 1 pound uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of ½ lemon
Rice:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup jasmin rice
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- ¼ cup white wine
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
Garnish:
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Combine the shrimp, olive oil, parsley, and lemon juice into a bowl and stir. Marinate for 15 minutes.
- In a large pot over medium high heat, add butter and wait for it to shimmer. Add onion and garlic and cook until soft, about 3-5 minutes. Deglaze the pot by adding the white wine. Keep cooking on medium-high heat, until the wine has cooked off. Pour in the rice and chicken broth, and season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat, cover and cook for 8-10 minutes. Add in the marinated shrimp to the pot, cover, and cook for 4-5 minutes, until the shrimp is pink and opaque.
- Sprinkle with fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and lemon slices if you please.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp and vegetables to ensure the best flavor in your dish. Fresh ingredients contribute to the overall taste and texture of the Cajun Shrimp and Rice.
- Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your preferred spice level. Start with a moderate amount and gradually increase it if you prefer a spicier dish. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, but it's challenging to reduce the spice once it's already in the dish.
- Sauté the Vegetables First: Sautéing the vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and celery before adding the shrimp and rice can enhance their flavors and provide a nice caramelization. It adds depth to the overall dish.
- Properly Cook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery. Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes 2-3 minutes per side. Remove them from the heat promptly to avoid overcooking.
- Let it Rest: Allow the Cajun Shrimp and Rice to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together and allows the rice to absorb any remaining moisture, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful dish.
- Garnish and Freshen Up: Before serving, garnish the Cajun Shrimp and Rice with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro to add a pop of freshness and color. Squeezing a bit of fresh lemon or lime juice over the dish just before serving can provide a bright and tangy flavor.
- Double the Recipe: Cajun Shrimp and Rice is a crowd-pleaser, so consider doubling the recipe if you're feeding a larger group or want leftovers for later. It reheats well and can be enjoyed as a delicious meal the next day.
- Add a Creamy Element (Optional): For a creamy twist, you can stir in a small amount of heavy cream, coconut milk, or cream cheese towards the end of cooking. This adds richness and a velvety texture to the dish.
- Experiment with Additions: Feel free to add other ingredients to your Cajun Shrimp and Rice based on your preferences. Consider incorporating diced tomatoes, corn, or cooked sausage to add extra flavor and texture.
- Serve with a Fresh Salad: Balance the richness of the Cajun Shrimp and Rice with a side of crisp, refreshing salad. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a citrus-based salad pairs well with the spicy flavors of the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 625
- Sodium: 942 mg
- Fat: 21.9 g
- Carbohydrates: 69.5 g
- Protein: 33.7 g
- Cholesterol: 190.4 mg
