A Bold and Flavorful Dish
Barbecue shrimp is a dish that combines bold flavors with tender, juicy shrimp. Although the name suggests it might involve grilling, this recipe is actually prepared in a skillet, where the shrimp are bathed in a rich, buttery, and tangy sauce. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a backyard party or preparing a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of spices, garlic, and a touch of lemon creates a deliciously savory dish that pairs well with crusty bread to soak up all the flavorful sauce.
In this recipe, we’ll walk you through how to make barbecue shrimp, a simple yet flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Best of all, it can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect go-to meal for seafood lovers.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off depending on preference)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Salt to taste
- Crusty bread (for serving)
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Start by prepping your shrimp. Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on for presentation if desired. Rinse them under cold water and dry with a paper towel. Season the shrimp lightly with salt and set them aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Cook the Garlic and Spices
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown.
Next, stir in the smoked paprika, chili powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. These spices form the base of the barbecue sauce and will give the shrimp that signature bold flavor. Cook the spices for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to release their aromas.
3. Add the Liquid Ingredients
After the spices have bloomed, it’s time to add the liquid ingredients. Pour in the Worcestershire sauce, fresh lemon juice, and chicken broth. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly and allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. This tangy, savory sauce will coat the shrimp perfectly, giving it a rich flavor with a bit of spice.
4. Cook the Shrimp
Once the sauce is simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low and add the shrimp to the skillet. Sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they become pink and opaque. Shrimp cook quickly, so be sure not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery.
As the shrimp cook, they will absorb the flavors from the sauce, becoming juicy and flavorful. Stir occasionally to make sure the shrimp are evenly coated with the barbecue sauce.
5. Finish the Sauce
When the shrimp are fully cooked, lower the heat and add the unsalted butter to the skillet. Stir gently until the butter has melted and combined with the sauce. This step adds a luxurious richness to the dish, making the sauce creamy and smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lemon juice, if needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Move the shrimp and sauce to a serving dish, and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and added freshness. Serve the barbecue shrimp with crusty bread, which is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. You can also pair the dish with rice, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh salad for a lighter option.
Tips for Success:
- Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp if possible. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they cook rapidly. Keep a close eye on them to ensure they stay tender. They only need 2-3 minutes per side to turn pink and firm up. Overcooked shrimp can become tough and chewy.
- Balance the Flavors: The key to this dish is balancing the richness of the butter with the tanginess of the lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce. Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference, and always taste the sauce before serving to make sure it’s perfectly seasoned.
Variations:
- Spicy Barbecue Shrimp: If you love heat, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some hot sauce to the dish. This will give your shrimp an extra kick, perfect for spice lovers.
- Barbecue Shrimp Pasta: Serve the shrimp and sauce over cooked pasta for a hearty and filling meal. The rich sauce pairs wonderfully with linguine or fettuccine.
- Grilled Barbecue Shrimp: For a twist, you can grill the shrimp instead of cooking them in the skillet. Simply brush the shrimp with the sauce while grilling, and serve with the remaining sauce for dipping.
- Shrimp and Grits: Pair the barbecue shrimp with creamy grits for a classic Southern meal. The smoky, spicy shrimp complement the creamy grits perfectly, creating a comforting and satisfying dish.
Nutritional Benefits of Barbecue Shrimp:
Barbecue shrimp is not only packed with flavor, but it also offers a range of nutritional benefits that make it a healthy addition to your meal plan.
- High-Quality Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, providing around 20 grams of protein per serving. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and shrimp is a low-calorie option that helps you meet your protein needs without excess fat.
- Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Shrimp contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support heart health. Omega-3s can help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and protect against heart disease.
- Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: Shrimp is rich in important vitamins and minerals, including selenium, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your cells from damage. Shrimp also provides vitamin B12, phosphorus, and iodine, which support energy production, bone health, and thyroid function.
- Low in Calories: Despite being rich in flavor, shrimp is relatively low in calories. This makes barbecue shrimp a satisfying yet light dish that fits well into a balanced diet.
- Gluten-Free and Low-Carb: This recipe is naturally gluten-free and low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a gluten-free or low-carb diet. Pair it with a side of vegetables or a salad for a healthy and balanced meal.
Conclusion:
Barbecue shrimp is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings together the rich flavors of spices, garlic, and butter. Whether you’re serving it as a main course with crusty bread or as part of a larger meal with sides like rice or salad, barbecue shrimp is sure to be a hit. With its quick preparation and range of nutritional benefits, this dish is perfect for seafood lovers looking for a satisfying and delicious meal.
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