Shrimp Perlow
A flavorful coastal shrimp and rice dish with smoky ham, bell peppers, and tomatoes, perfect for seafood lovers and those seeking a hearty, spicy meal with Southern flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté chopped onions, garlic, and bell pepper in oil until tender.
- Add chopped ham, bacon, or salt meat and cook until browned.
- Stir in uncooked rice and cook for a few minutes to toast the rice.
- Add chopped tomatoes or canned stewed tomatoes, along with salt, pepper, thyme, Tabasco sauce, and bay leaf.
- Pour in enough water or broth to cook the rice; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed, about 20 minutes.
- Add small, shelled shrimp during the last 5 minutes of cooking and cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked ham or bacon as your meat choice. If you'd like a vegetarian version, you can substitute the meat with mushrooms or a plant-based protein. You can also add spices like paprika or cayenne for an extra kick. When toasting the rice, keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as this step adds depth to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Shrimp Perlow hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for added color and flavor. Accompany it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Southern Red Rice for a hearty feast or can be enjoyed alongside crusty bread to soak up the savory juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the rice and heat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. This will help prevent the rice from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Perlow contains roughly 680 calories, with 7g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 869mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before adding them to the dish during the last few minutes of cooking. This will ensure they cook evenly and retain their texture.
What can I substitute for rice if I'm looking for a low-carb option?
You can substitute the rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa for a low-carb alternative. Both options will absorb the flavors well and provide a similar texture, though the cooking times might vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce when cooking. You can also sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for an extra kick, tailoring the spice level to your preference.
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).