Plantation Shrimp Pilau
A flavorful shrimp pilau cooked with bacon, celery, and bell peppers, featuring smoky, savory, and slightly spicy notes that appeal to seafood and rice lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crisp; set aside and crumble.
- Add bacon grease to water and cook rice in it.
- In a frying pan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped celery and bell pepper; cook for a few minutes.
- Add small shrimp, sprinkle with Worcestershire sauce, and dredge in flour.
- Stir and simmer until shrimp are cooked through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add cooked rice and mix well.
- Stir in crumbled bacon and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a kick. If you can't find small shrimp, medium shrimp can be used, just chop them into smaller pieces. For a healthier option, substitute turkey bacon for traditional bacon. Also, if you're short on time, pre-cooked shrimp can save you a few minutes during preparation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Plantation Shrimp Pilau with a side of sautéed greens or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Party Sandwiches (Ham Filling) for a delightful brunch or casual gathering. For added texture, sprinkle chopped green onions or parsley on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the pilau in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Stir frequently until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plantation Shrimp Pilau contains roughly 330 calories, with 25g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (86% of the Daily Value) and protein (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1519mg per serving (66% 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 instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp can be a convenient option. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. You can run them under cold water in a colander or leave them in the refrigerator overnight for the best results. This will help maintain their texture and flavor in the pilau.
What can I substitute for rice?
If you're looking for a low-carb option, consider using cauliflower rice as a substitute. You can also use quinoa or bulgur wheat for a different texture and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time according to the grain you select to ensure it's properly cooked.
How spicy is this dish?
This dish is not inherently spicy, but you can easily adjust the heat level to your preference. If you enjoy spice, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the shrimp. This will give the pilau a nice kick without overwhelming the dish.
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).