Chef John's Shrimp Etouffee: A Flavorful Cajun Classic

Introduction

If you're craving a taste of Louisiana, Chef John's shrimp etouffee is the perfect dish to transport you straight to the heart of Cajun country. Etouffee, which means 'smothered' in French, is a rich, flavorful dish where shrimp are simmered in a savory, roux-based sauce made with onions, bell peppers, and celery—known as the holy trinity of Cajun cooking. This dish holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of a trip to New Orleans, where the warm, spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine left a lasting impression.

Chef John's shrimp etouffee brings the bold, comforting flavors of the South into your kitchen, without being overly complicated. It's perfect for those looking to recreate an authentic Louisiana dish at home, whether you’re familiar with Cajun cooking or trying it for the first time. This recipe is great for a family dinner or when you're entertaining guests who appreciate a little kick in their meal.

Why will you love this dish? It’s packed with flavor from the shrimp and seasoned sauce, has just the right amount of spice, and comes together in about 45 minutes. Plus, it's easy to make with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

Recipe Overview

Chef John's Shrimp Etouffee

This classic Cajun shrimp etouffee is made with a dark roux and seasoned with the perfect blend of spices. The tender shrimp soak up the rich, flavorful sauce, and it's traditionally served over fluffy white rice, making it a hearty meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shrimp or chicken stock
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish
• Cooked white rice, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Roux

In a large heavy-bottomed skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously to form a roux. Stir the mixture constantly for about 10-12 minutes, or until it turns a deep golden-brown color. This step is essential for building the base of flavor in your etouffee, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Once the roux has reached the desired color, add the chopped onions, bell pepper, and celery to the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the vegetables to cook in the roux for about 5-7 minutes, or until they soften and become fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 3: Add the Stock and Seasoning

Slowly pour in the shrimp or chicken stock, whisking as you go to avoid any lumps. Once the stock is fully incorporated, stir in the drained tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Add the Shrimp

Gently fold the shrimp into the sauce and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough if left in the sauce too long.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the bay leaf and taste the sauce, adjusting the seasoning if needed. Serve the shrimp etouffee over a bed of cooked white rice, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. A dash of hot sauce on the side is always a good idea for those who like extra heat!

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This recipe makes about 4-6 servings, depending on portion size. Chef John's shrimp etouffee is traditionally served over white rice, but you can also enjoy it with crusty French bread to soak up every last bit of the sauce. A simple green salad or sautéed greens, like collard or mustard greens, makes an excellent side dish to balance out the richness of the etouffee. For a complete Cajun-inspired meal, pair it with a glass of sweet tea or a cold beer.

Nutritional Information

This shrimp etouffee is a relatively balanced dish, featuring lean protein from the shrimp and fiber from the vegetables. The richness of the butter and roux adds flavor but also contributes to the calorie content. A typical serving of shrimp etouffee contains around 300-400 calories, depending on the size of your serving and any sides you include.

Storage and Reheating

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, shrimp etouffee can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day!

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, simply warm the etouffee in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or stock to loosen it up. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp when reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Frozen shrimp work perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before adding them to the sauce.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

If you don’t have Cajun seasoning on hand, you can make your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste.

Is etouffee always made with shrimp?

While shrimp etouffee is one of the most popular versions, you can also make etouffee with other proteins like crawfish, chicken, or even sausage. The recipe remains largely the same, with the protein being the only significant change.

Conclusion

Chef John's shrimp etouffee is a classic Cajun dish that brings bold flavors and a touch of Southern comfort to your table. With a little patience for making the roux and the right blend of spices, this dish is sure to impress. Whether you're a fan of Cajun cuisine or just looking to try something new, shrimp etouffee is a must-try recipe that’s packed with flavor and perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Give this recipe a try, and don't forget to leave a comment below sharing how it turned out! Whether you followed the recipe exactly or added your own twist, I’d love to hear your thoughts. For more delicious recipes like this, be sure to follow along and stay tuned for more Cajun classics.