Ahoy there, my spicy swabs! Captain Cara Bean here, back from another delectable deep dive, this time into the heart of New Orleans. And let me tell you, darlings, the flavors down there are as sultry and satisfying as a midnight rendezvous on the Lido Deck.
I recently indulged in a dish that had me weak in the knees and reaching for a second (and maybe a third) napkin – New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp. Now, don't let the "BBQ" fool you, there's no smoky grill involved, just a glorious, buttery, garlicky, peppery sauce that bathes plump, juicy shrimp in a way that'll make you want to lick your fingers clean... and maybe someone else's too. 😉
Since I'm feeling generous (and maybe a little frisky), I'm going to share my version of this divine decadence with you. Fair warning, though: this recipe is potent. It might just ignite a craving so fierce, the only cure is a trip to the Big Easy itself!
Captain Cara Bean's "Kiss Me in the Kitchen" New Orleans BBQ Shrimp
What you'll need for our little dance:
- 1 pound large shrimp, shell on (trust me, the shells add to the flavor and the fun of peeling them later)
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, oh yes, we're going all in!
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (don't be shy, we like it pungent)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (that little hint of mystery)
- 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning (for that Louisiana spice, wink wink)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (a touch of smolder)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (a whisper of herbaceousness)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a little heat where it counts)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (something crisp and flirty)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (a little zing to keep things interesting)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for a final flourish)
- Crusty bread, for soaking up all that luscious sauce (essential, my dears, absolutely essential)
Let's get this party started:
- Rinse your beautiful shrimp and pat them dry.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt that glorious butter. Let it get all bubbly and excited.
- Add the minced garlic and let it dance in the butter for about a minute, until fragrant. Don't let it burn, we want passion, not ashes.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Let those flavors mingle and get to know each other.
- Pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Let it simmer for a few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the aromas to tease your senses.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and toss them in that intoxicating sauce until they're coated in all that goodness.
- Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Don't overcook them, we want them tender and juicy.
- Stir in the fresh parsley.
- Serve immediately in shallow bowls with plenty of that crusty bread for soaking up every last drop of that magnificent sauce. Trust me, you won't want to leave any behind.
Oh, the places you'll go (and the flavors you'll discover!)
Now, while my little recipe will certainly tantalize your taste buds, nothing beats experiencing the real deal in the vibrant atmosphere of a New Orleans eatery. The sounds, the smells, the lively company… it’s an experience that truly ignites the senses.
That's where my wonderful friends at Come Monday Travel come in! They're experts at crafting unforgettable journeys, and a trip to New Orleans to savor these authentic flavors (and maybe a few other spicy adventures 😉) is right up their alley.
So, ditch the kitchen for a while and let Come Monday Travel whisk you away to the enchanting streets of New Orleans. Imagine yourself there, the warm air on your skin, a plate of sizzling BBQ shrimp in front of you, and maybe a charming local offering to share his bread… or more. 😉
Click the link in my bio or contact Come Monday Travel today to book your New Orleans escape! Let them handle the details while you dream of beignets, jazz, and, of course, those unforgettable BBQ shrimp.
Until our next delicious adventure, keep your spirits high and your appetites even higher!
Yours in wanderlust and wonderful food,
Captain Cara Bean 💋
Dreamin' of turquoise waters and salty breezes? Unlock exclusive travel savings by subscribing to the Come Monday Travel email list for weekly emails filled with current promotions – your passport to paradise awaits!
