Una'S Shrimp Creole
A savory shrimp creole with rich tomato flavors, aromatic vegetables, and a hint of spice, perfect for seafood lovers and family dinners alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter and sauté chopped green pepper, chopped onion, diced celery, and chopped green onions for about 5 minutes.
- Add chopped canned tomatoes and tomato paste along with bay leaves. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add peeled shrimp; simmer for 15 minutes.
- Dissolve cornstarch in 1 pint water and add to the shrimp mixture. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
- Serve over steaming rice or creamed potatoes.
- Optionally, add a few drops of Tabasco or red pepper for extra spice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade seafood stock instead of water when dissolving cornstarch. If fresh shrimp isn't available, frozen shrimp can work well; just ensure they're fully thawed before adding them to the dish. You can also substitute diced tomatoes with fire-roasted varieties for an added smoky taste. If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch slightly.
Serving Suggestions
This Shrimp Creole is best served over steaming rice or creamed potatoes, allowing the sauce to soak in. For an extra kick, consider serving with a side of Remoulade Sauce For Two for dipping or drizzling. A simple green salad or seasoned crackers and pretzels can complement the meal nicely, creating a balanced dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Shrimp Creole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick. Avoid microwaving directly, as it can overcook the shrimp and make them rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Una'S Shrimp Creole contains roughly 1044 calories, with 14g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (149% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (147% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (66% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 19g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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! You can easily customize this dish by using crab, scallops, or even fish like catfish. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly, as different seafood will require different cooking durations to achieve the perfect tenderness.
What can I do if I don't have tomato puree?
If tomato puree isn't available, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or even tomato sauce. Both options will provide a similar flavor and consistency, but you may want to adjust the seasoning slightly to balance the flavors.
Is this dish spicy? Can I adjust the spice level?
The heat level in Shrimp Creole can be adjusted to your preference. If you're sensitive to spice, start with less Tabasco or red pepper and gradually add more to taste. Alternatively, you can omit them entirely for a milder dish while still enjoying the rich flavors.
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).