Cedar Creek Shrimp Creole
A rich, flavorful Creole dish featuring succulent shrimp, smoky bacon, and vibrant vegetables simmered in a spicy tomato sauce, perfect for seafood lovers and hearty meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until brown and remove from the pan.
- Saute chopped celery, green peppers, and onions in the bacon drippings.
- Add cooked bacon back to the vegetables.
- Boil and peel the shrimp simultaneously.
- Add mashed tomatoes, garlic powder, salt, bay leaves, brown sugar, and chili powder to the vegetables and bacon.
- Simmer the mixture for 1 1/2 hours.
- Serve the shrimp creole over fluffy rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using shrimp with shells on while cooking, then peel them before serving. You can substitute the smoked bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few diced jalapeños. Make sure to adjust the salt based on the saltiness of the bacon used.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp creole over fluffy rice for a classic presentation. It also pairs beautifully with String Beans for a well-rounded meal. For a refreshing drink, consider a Strawberry Sparkler to complement the dish. You can also serve crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover shrimp creole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cedar Creek Shrimp Creole contains roughly 455 calories, with 14g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (182% of the Daily Value), iron (134% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2142mg per serving (93% 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 frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them first for even cooking. Simply place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water until defrosted before adding them to the dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, consider increasing the amount of chili powder or adding diced jalapeños to the vegetable mix. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for guests to adjust the spice level to their preference.
What can I substitute for tomatoes if I'm allergic?
If you're allergic to tomatoes, you can substitute with a mixture of roasted red peppers and tomato paste for a similar consistency and flavor. Alternatively, a homemade vegetable broth with a splash of vinegar can also work as a base.
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).