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Shrimp Dirty Rice

Shrimp Dirty Rice

Shrimp Dirty Rice is a bold-flavored, Southern-inspired dish combining perfectly seasoned shrimp, aromatic Cajun spices, vibrant vegetables, and tender long-grain rice. This quick and easy recipe yields a savory, colorful meal that balances textures and tastes, making it ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner or flavorful weekend treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Seasonings

  • 12 oz medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning

Vegetables

  • 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
  • 1/2 cup diced onions
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Rice and Liquids

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Cooking Fats

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

Instructions

  1. Prepare the rice: Rinse 1 cup of long-grain white rice thoroughly and cook it using 2 cups of chicken broth instead of water to add deeper flavor and keep the rice fluffy.
  2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions, celery, and bell peppers and sauté until they soften and release their fragrance, about 4-5 minutes.
  3. Cook the shrimp: Add peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet with the vegetables. Season with minced garlic and 2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and slightly opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Combine rice and shrimp mixture: Stir the cooked rice into the skillet with the shrimp and vegetables. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors and heat through evenly.
  5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top to add a fresh pop of color and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best texture and taste.
  • Lightly toast Cajun seasoning before adding to enhance flavor complexity.
  • Do not overcook the rice; slightly undercooked rice will absorb more flavors and stay fluffy.
  • Adjust salt carefully as chicken broth can be salty.
  • Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes off heat to let all flavors meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp dirty rice, Cajun shrimp rice, Southern shrimp recipe, quick shrimp rice, gluten free shrimp dish