Hearty Mardi Shrimp Étouffée

/ bloomhearty

A rich and flavorful Louisiana dish featuring succulent shrimp in a savory roux-based sauce, served over fluffy white rice.

This Shrimp Étouffée, a quintessential Cajun and Creole dish, is a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures. This Louisiana classic begins with a roux, blending butter and flour to a rich, dark tan. The holy trinity of onions, bell peppers, and celery sautéed in this roux creates a flavorful base. Succulent shrimp, bathed in a simmering concoction of diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and a medley of spices—Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, and oregano—elevate the dish to a crescendo of taste. Served over a bed of fluffy white rice, each bite of Shrimp Étouffée encapsulates the soulful essence of Mardi Gras, a gastronomic revelry of Louisiana’s culinary heritage.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Cooked white rice, for serving
  • Chopped green onions and or parsley for garnish

Directions

  1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Stir in the flour to create a roux. Cook, stirring constantly, until the roux reaches a dark tan color, being careful not to burn it. This may take about 15-20 minutes.
  3. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the roux. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened.
  4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and add the shrimp to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the shrimp are cooked through.
  6. Season the étouffée with salt and black pepper to taste.
  7. Serve the shrimp étouffée over cooked white rice.
  8. Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley.

This Shrimp Étouffée is a delightful and comforting dish with a rich, flavorful sauce that is perfect for celebrating Mardi Gras. Enjoy!