shrimp stew recipe
The Best shrimp stew recipe
What I really appreciate about this stew is how balanced it is. Shrimp is a great source of lean protein, and the tomatoes and herbs add vitamins and antioxidants. Plus, it’s light enough that you don’t feel weighed down after eating it, but hearty enough to keep everyone satisfied. We usually serve it with crusty bread or over rice, and it’s always gone before I can even think about leftovers. If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that the whole family will love, this is the one to try.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Stew
A rich and flavorful shrimp stew with a Cajun kick, featuring succulent shrimp, bell peppers, and a creamy tomato base. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup seafood or chicken stock
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp butter
- Cooked rice or crusty bread
- Fresh parsley for garnish
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell peppers, sautéing for 5-6 minutes until softened. -
2
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. -
3
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, stock, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper (if using), bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer. -
4
Reduce heat to low and let the stew simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. -
5
Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, just until they turn pink and opaque. -
6
Stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, lemon juice, and butter. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring gently to avoid breaking the shrimp. -
7
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Cajun seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf. -
8
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot over cooked rice or with crusty bread.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Creamy Cajun Shrimp Stew Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Cajun Shrimp Stew
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this stew?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps them sear better. Avoid overcooking, as frozen shrimp can become rubbery if left too long in the stew.
2. What can I substitute for coconut milk if I don’t have any?
If you don’t have coconut milk, you can use heavy cream, half-and-half, or even a dairy-free alternative like almond or cashew milk (though the flavor will differ). For a lighter option, try blending silken tofu with a little broth for a creamy texture.
3. How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?
Shrimp cook very quickly—usually in 2-3 minutes. Add them to the stew at the very end of cooking and remove the pot from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque. The residual heat will finish cooking them without making them tough.
4. Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stew base (without shrimp) ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the base gently before adding fresh shrimp just before serving to avoid overcooking.
5. What sides pair well with shrimp stew?
Shrimp stew pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or quinoa to soak up the broth. For a lighter option, serve it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. A squeeze of lime or fresh cilantro on top also brightens the dish.