Shrimp Creole

How to Make Shrimp Creole

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1. Heat the oil in a large deep pan over medium heat and cook the onion, celery and pepper for 10 minutes, until soft and just starting to colour.

   Mark done Start 10 min timer

2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, then stir in the tomato paste, paprika, cayenne and thyme and cook for 1 minute.

   Mark done Start 1 min timer

3. Add the tomatoes, stock, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce and salt, and simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes, until thick.

   Mark done Start 20 min timer

4. Meanwhile cook the rice according to the packet and keep it warm.

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5. Stir the shrimp into the sauce, cover, and cook for 4 minutes, until pink and just firm.

   Mark done Start 4 min timer

6. Discard the bay leaves and stir in the spring onions.

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7. Spoon the rice into bowls, ladle the shrimp Creole over it and scatter with the parsley.

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Tips for Making Shrimp Creole

• Cook the sauce before the shrimp go in. It can be made a day ahead and improves overnight, and the shrimp then need only 4 minutes.
• Pull the pan off the heat as soon as the shrimp are pink and curled loosely. A tight curl means they are overcooked.
• Taste for heat at the end. Cayenne varies, and the sauce can take more or less depending on how much you like.

Common Substitutions & Variations

• Out of spring onions? A small regular onion, finely sliced, or a few chives stirred in at the end both cover the job.
• An eighth of a teaspoon of garlic powder per clove is the usual stand-in when you are out of fresh garlic — it will not caramelise the same way, but it carries the flavour.
• Vegetable stock in place of the chicken stock makes this meat-free without changing the method, if that is what you need.

What to Serve with Shrimp Creole

• Steamed white rice
• Skillet cornbread
• A green salad with vinaigrette

Storing & Reheating Shrimp Creole

Keeps in the fridge for up to 2 days, though the shrimp toughen on reheating, so warm it gently. The sauce alone freezes for up to 3 months. Add fresh shrimp when reheating it.

Shrimp Creole FAQ: Common Questions

Shrimp Creole Nutrition

Per serving, calculated from the ingredient list. Treat these as an estimate — brands and cuts vary.