Cast Iron New Orleans BBQ Shrimp Recipe
New Orleans BBQ Shrimp isn't your backyard barbecue fare. It's a rich, buttery, and spicy dish that captures the essence of the Crescent City's culinary flair. This recipe brings the bayou to your kitchen with a simple yet indulgent preparation that's perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.
How To Cook Cast Iron New Orleans BBQ Shrimp
Ingredients
Serves 4-6
12 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
2 lemons
5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
3 fresh bay leaves
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 pounds large white shrimp, shells on
1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions
1. Sauté Aromatics
Melt 8 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Thinly slice one lemon into 1/4-inch rounds, removing any seeds.
Add the lemon slices, sliced garlic, and bay leaves to the melted butter.
Sauté gently for about 3 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the smoked paprika and cayenne pepper; cook for an additional minute.
2. Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the spiced butter.
Cook for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until the shrimp start to turn pink.
Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and the juice from the remaining lemon (about 2 tablespoons).
Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked and coated in the sauce.
3. Finish the Sauce
Stir in the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter until melted and the sauce is smooth.
Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. Serve
Remove from heat and serve immediately with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
FAQs
Can I use peeled shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, while traditional New Orleans BBQ Shrimp is made with shell-on shrimp for added flavor, you can use peeled shrimp for easier eating.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild to moderate heat from the cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Can I substitute the butter with another fat?
Butter is essential for the authentic flavor of this dish. Substituting with other fats will alter the taste significantly.
What type of bread pairs best with this dish?
A crusty French baguette or sourdough bread is ideal for soaking up the rich sauce.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Can I add other seafood to this recipe?
While shrimp is traditional, you can experiment with other shellfish like scallops or mussels, adjusting cooking times accordingly.Instructions
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 450°F (232°C). Place two 6-inch cast iron skillets on a baking sheet and heat them in the oven for at least 10 minutes.
Prepare Strawberries: In a small bowl, combine sliced strawberries, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Set aside to macerate.
Make Batter: In a blender, combine milk, ricotta, eggs, lemon zest, vanilla extract, sea salt, flour, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar. Blend until smooth, about 15–20 seconds. Let the batter rest at room temperature.
Butter Skillets: Carefully remove the hot skillets from the oven. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to each skillet, swirling to coat. Return to the oven for 2 minutes to melt the butter completely.
Bake Pancakes: Pour half of the batter into each skillet. Immediately return them to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the pancakes are puffed and golden brown. Do not open the oven door during baking, as this can cause the pancakes to deflate.
Serve: Remove the pancakes from the oven. Top with the macerated strawberries and dust with confectioners’ sugar. Serve immediately.
Tips for the Perfect Dutch Baby
Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and milk helps achieve a better rise.
Preheat Your Skillet: A thoroughly heated skillet ensures the batter starts cooking immediately, leading to a puffier pancake.
Avoid Opening the Oven: Resist the temptation to peek; sudden temperature changes can cause the pancake to collapse.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of skillet?
Yes, while cast iron is preferred for its heat retention, any oven-safe skillet will work.
Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese or mascarpone can be used as alternatives, though the texture and flavor will vary.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
What other fruits can I use as toppings?
Blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches make excellent alternatives or additions to strawberries.
Can I prepare the batter in advance?
It's best to prepare the batter just before baking to ensure maximum puffiness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pancake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.
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