Mama Ruth'S Shrimp Etouffee

Prep: 15 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Cajun

A flavorful Cajun-style shrimp etouffee featuring succulent shrimp in a savory tomato and green onion sauce, perfect for those who enjoy bold, spicy seafood dishes.

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Ingredients

  • 3 lb. shrimp, peeled
  • 1 bunch chopped green onions
  • 1/2 cup chopped celery
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons tomato paste
  • 1/4 teaspoon cornstarch
  • 1 stick margarine
  • 1/2 cup cold water
  • 1 can chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Season raw peeled shrimp with salt, black pepper, and red pepper to taste.
  2. Melt margarine in a large skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add chopped green onions, chopped celery, and tomato paste; cook until vegetables are wilted.
  4. Dissolve cornstarch in cold water and add to the mixture, stirring well.
  5. Add the seasoned shrimp and more water as needed.
  6. Cook over medium heat for about 20 minutes, until shrimp are cooked through and flavors meld.
  7. Serve the shrimp etouffee over cooked rice.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor of Mama Ruth's Shrimp Etouffee, consider adding a bay leaf while cooking the vegetables. If you're out of shrimp, you can substitute with crawfish or even chicken for a different twist. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper based on your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious shrimp etouffee over fluffy white rice for a classic presentation. For additional texture and flavor, consider pairing it with a side of crusty French bread or a fresh salad, such as Asian Chicken Salad, to balance the richness.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the desired consistency. Avoid microwaving as it can overcook the shrimp.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mama Ruth'S Shrimp Etouffee contains roughly 570 calories, with 29g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (90% of the Daily Value), potassium (79% of the Daily Value), and iron (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1165mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).

570 kcal 28% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 29.3g 59% DV
Total Fat 25.6g 33% DV
Carbs 69.1g 25% DV
Fiber 15.1g 54% DV
Sugar 42.9g 86% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1164.9mg 51% DV
Potassium 3728.5mg 79% DV
Cholesterol 126.6mg 42% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 332.9mcg 37% DV
Vitamin C 81mg 90% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 210.4mg 16% DV
Iron 10.9mg 61% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Shellfish

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 make this shrimp etouffee ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the etouffee a day in advance, as the flavors will deepen overnight. Just reheat it gently before serving. However, it's best to add the shrimp fresh to maintain their texture.

What can I serve with shrimp etouffee?

Shrimp etouffee pairs beautifully with rice or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness and balance.

Is this dish spicy?

The spiciness of the etouffee can be adjusted to your taste by modifying the amount of red pepper used. If you prefer milder flavors, start with a small amount and gradually increase until it 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).

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