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Cajun Shrimp Dirty Rice

Cajun Shrimp Dirty Rice
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Cajun Shrimp Dirty Rice is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines tender, seasoned shrimp with fluffy rice cooked in chicken broth and Cajun spices. Enhanced with vibrant vegetables like bell peppers, celery, and onion, this quick and easy meal delivers bold, spicy Southern flavors perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp

  • 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (plus additional for cooking)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing shrimp)

Vegetables & Rice

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, dry
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing vegetables)
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

Garnish

  • 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Season the peeled and deveined shrimp lightly with salt, pepper, and about 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside to prevent overcooking.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add an additional tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Add diced onions, red and green bell peppers, and celery. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables soften and start to caramelize. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Cook the Rice: Stir the dry rice into the pan with the vegetables, coating each grain with oil and veggie juices. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer gently for around 15 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  4. Combine Everything: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork, then gently fold in the cooked shrimp. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or Cajun spice if desired. Let the mixture heat through on low for a couple of minutes to meld flavors.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh crunch and bright flavor. Serve the dish hot and enjoy its spicy, savory richness.

Notes

  • Use fresh Cajun seasoning or homemade blends as pre-made mixes can lose potency.
  • Avoid overcooking shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
  • Toast the rice briefly with vegetables to bring out a nutty flavor and avoid mushiness.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper gradually to control the spice level to your liking.
  • Allow the dish to rest a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun, Shrimp, Dirty Rice, Spicy, Quick Dinner, Gluten Free, Cajun Seasoning, Seafood

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/cajun-shrimp-dirty-rice/