Lake'S Shrimp Creole
Lake's Shrimp Creole is a flavorful, hearty dish featuring tender shrimp simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce with aromatic spices, vegetables, and a hint of heat from hot sauce. Perfect for seafood lovers and those seeking a comforting, savory meal, served over fluffy white rice for a complete experience.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups shrimp ⓘ
- 1 pinch black pepper ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon Texas Pete hot sauce ⓘ
- 1 small white onion, chopped ⓘ
- 4 bay leaves ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons bacon drippings ⓘ
- 1 pinch basil ⓘ
- 1 pinch oregano ⓘ
- 1/2 can tomato paste ⓘ
- 1 (8 oz.) can stewed tomatoes ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon flour ⓘ
- 2 cups cooked rice ⓘ
- 1/2 slice cooked bacon ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1 chopped green pepper ⓘ
- 1/3 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 stalks chopped celery ⓘ
Instructions
- Saute chopped onions, chopped green peppers, and chopped celery in bacon drippings until vegetables are tender.
- Add stewed tomatoes, sliced whole skinless tomatoes, garlic, and spices (basil, oregano, bay leaves, black pepper, salt, hot sauce).
- Pour in 1/2 cup water and let the mixture simmer for at least 20 minutes.
- Add shrimp and cook for 5 to 8 minutes or until shrimp are done.
- Serve the shrimp creole over hot, cooked white rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or even a pinch of cayenne for extra heat. If fresh shrimp aren't available, frozen shrimp can work just as well; just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking. You can also substitute the bacon drippings with olive oil for a lighter option. To enhance the dish, try incorporating a splash of white wine while simmering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this shrimp creole over a bed of hot, cooked white rice for a comforting meal. Pair it with a simple green salad or cornbread for a well-rounded dinner. For a delightful twist, consider serving it alongside Hot Or Cold Baked Potato Salad, which complements the flavors perfectly.
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 to maintain moisture. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may overcook the shrimp and alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lake'S Shrimp Creole contains roughly 876 calories, with 33g protein, 196g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (194% of the Daily Value), and calcium (129% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2573mg per serving (112% 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 other types of seafood in this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can substitute shrimp with other seafood like crawfish or crab. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as different seafood may require varying lengths to become perfectly cooked.
What can I serve with shrimp creole?
Shrimp creole pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a side of crusty French bread for dipping, or a fresh coleslaw to add a crunchy contrast. For a heartier meal, you can also serve it alongside Cajun Country Pork Soutache.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To increase the heat, you can add more Texas Pete hot sauce or include diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Taste as you go to find the perfect level of spiciness that suits your palate.
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).