Alabama Shrimp Creole
Alabama Shrimp Creole offers a flavorful blend of tomatoes, peppers, and spices with tender shrimp, perfect for a hearty, Southern-inspired meal over rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook all ingredients except spices and shrimp in oil for 5 minutes.
- Add 1 cup of water and cook down for 30 minutes.
- Add remaining ingredients except shrimp, cover, and simmer for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Add more water if needed during simmering.
- Add shrimp and cook for an additional 20 minutes.
- Serve over cooked long grain rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce. If fresh tomatoes are out of season, substitute with additional canned tomatoes. You can also use frozen shrimp; just ensure they are fully thawed before adding them to the pot. Adjust the creole seasoning to your spice preference to achieve the desired heat level.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Alabama Shrimp Creole over fluffy cooked long grain rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or a light green salad for a complete meal. This dish also pairs beautifully with the Hot Crabmeat Appetizer for a seafood-themed feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp creole on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Alabama Shrimp Creole contains roughly 1747 calories, with 83g protein, 226g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (514% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (278% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2709mg per serving (118% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of seafood in this recipe?
Absolutely! While shrimp is traditional, you can substitute with scallops, crab meat, or a mix of seafood. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some fish may require less time to cook than shrimp.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and add the shrimp just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. However, avoid cooking the shrimp too far ahead, as they can become tough if reheated.
What can I serve with Alabama Shrimp Creole?
In addition to rice, consider serving it with cornbread or a light coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. A crisp white wine or a light beer would also complement the dish well, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).