Here’s a list of ingredients for **Louisiana Shrimp Creole II**, formatted with SEO-friendly keywords to help you optimize your content for search engines:
- **Shrimp** (1-2 lbs, peeled and deveined) - Fresh or frozen shrimp for a classic Louisiana seafood dish.
- **Tomatoes** (2 cups, diced) - Fresh or canned tomatoes for a rich, tangy base.
- **Onion** (1 medium, chopped) - Adds depth and sweetness to the Creole flavor.
- **Green Bell Pepper** (1 medium, chopped) - Essential for the "holy trinity" of Creole cooking.
- **Celery** (2 stalks, chopped) - Completes the Creole "holy trinity" for authentic flavor.
- **Garlic** (3-4 cloves, minced) - Enhances the savory profile of the dish.
- **Tomato Paste** (2 tbsp) - Concentrates the tomato flavor for a robust sauce.
- **Chicken or Seafood Stock** (1-2 cups) - Adds moisture and depth to the Creole sauce.
- **Cajun or Creole Seasoning** (1-2 tbsp) - A blend of spices like paprika, cayenne, and thyme for authentic Louisiana flavor.
- **Bay Leaves** (2-3) - Adds a subtle earthy aroma to the dish.
- **Hot Sauce** (1-2 tsp) - Optional, for a spicy kick.
- **Worcestershire Sauce** (1 tbsp) - Adds umami and tanginess to the sauce.
- **Olive Oil or Butter** (2 tbsp) - For sautéing the vegetables and shrimp.
- **Flour** (2 tbsp) - Used as a thickening agent for the Creole sauce.
- **Salt and Black Pepper** (to taste) - Enhances the overall flavor.
- **Fresh Parsley or Green Onions** (for garnish) - Adds a pop of color and freshness.
- **Cooked Rice** (for serving) - White or brown rice to complement the shrimp Creole.
This **Louisiana Shrimp Creole II** recipe is perfect for seafood lovers and those craving authentic **Cajun and Creole cuisine**. It’s a flavorful, spicy, and hearty dish that’s easy to make at home!
Steps
# How to Make Louisiana Shrimp Creole II: A Step-by-Step Guide
Louisiana Shrimp Creole II is a classic Southern dish bursting with bold flavors, combining succulent shrimp, rich tomatoes, and aromatic spices. This Creole-inspired recipe is perfect for seafood lovers and anyone craving a taste of Louisiana cuisine. Follow these detailed steps to create a restaurant-quality dish at home.
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## **Ingredients for Louisiana Shrimp Creole II**
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup seafood or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare the Shrimp**
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Set aside.
### **2. Sauté the Holy Trinity**
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, green bell pepper, and celery (the "holy trinity" of Creole cooking). Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
### **3. Add Garlic and Spices**
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, and bay leaves. Mix well to coat the vegetables.
### **4. Build the Sauce**
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and seafood broth. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
### **5. Cook the Shrimp**
- Add the seasoned shrimp to the sauce. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender.
### **6. Adjust Seasoning**
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, or additional cayenne pepper for extra heat.
### **7. Serve and Garnish**
- Remove the bay leaves. Serve the Louisiana Shrimp Creole II over a bed of fluffy white rice. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.
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## **Tips for Perfect Louisiana Shrimp Creole II**
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water).
- Pair with crusty French bread or a side of collard greens for a complete Southern meal.
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## **Why You’ll Love This Dish**
This Louisiana Shrimp Creole II recipe is a crowd-pleaser, combining the bold flavors of Creole cuisine with the simplicity of home cooking. It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
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By following these steps, you’ll create a flavorful Louisiana Shrimp Creole II that’s sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your creation on social media and tag it with #LouisianaShrimpCreole for more foodie inspiration!