Shrimp Stew
A hearty shrimp stew with smoky bacon, tender potatoes, and a spicy tomato-based broth. The bold flavors are complemented by peppers and hot sauce, making it a perfect comforting dish for seafood lovers and those craving a flavorful, warming meal. Ideal for casual family dinners or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add tomatoes, onion, chopped green pepper, bacon drippings, chili sauce, hot pepper sauce, and salt to a pot and bring to a boil.
- Add potatoes to the boiling mixture and cook slowly until tender.
- Add large shrimp during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Serve the stew topped with bacon bits.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked bacon and fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. If you want to reduce the cooking time, you can use frozen shrimp, but add them directly to the pot without thawing. To adjust spiciness, modify the amount of chili sauce and hot pepper sauce to your taste. This shrimp stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the shrimp stew hot, garnished with crispy bacon bits for added texture. It goes well with a side salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with cornbread or a slice of garlic bread. A chilled glass of white wine can complement the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the stew on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can overcook the shrimp and make them rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp Stew contains roughly 302 calories, with 21g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stew a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe until the final step of adding the shrimp. When ready to serve, reheat the stew gently and add the shrimp just before serving to ensure they remain tender.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
Canned diced tomatoes work best for this recipe as they provide a nice balance of acidity and sweetness. You can also use fresh tomatoes if in season; just peel and chop them finely. If you prefer a thicker stew, consider using crushed tomatoes instead.
Can I substitute the bacon?
Absolutely! For a healthier option, you can use turkey bacon or omit it entirely and add a bit of olive oil for flavor. If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, consider adding smoked paprika to replicate the smoky flavor usually provided by bacon.
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).