Tag: Louisiana Seafood

Creole Courtbouillon: The Perfect Seafood Stew for Any Occasion

When you think of Louisiana cuisine, gumbo often comes to mind with its rich, hearty flavors. But what if you’re craving something a little lighter yet still packed with that signature Creole flair? That’s where this Creole Courtbouillon recipe from Louisiana Cookin steps in. This dish combines the freshest Gulf seafood with a fragrant, savory broth of tomatoes, peppers, and herbs. The result is a delightful, lighter cousin to gumbo that still holds its own in terms of flavor.

Court-bouillon, pronounced “coo-bee-yon,” is a Creole take on the classic French fish stew. However, unlike the French version that’s more akin to a poaching liquid, the Creole version is a hearty stew. The star of this dish is the seafood—shrimp and grouper are traditional choices—and they’re simmered in a vibrant broth until perfectly tender and infused with flavor.

Whether you’re serving this for a special family dinner or simply looking to elevate your weeknight meal, Creole Courtbouillon offers a little taste of Louisiana right at home. Let’s dive into how to making this dish

Ingredients:

 

Directions:

  1. Begin by combining the shrimp and grouper in a medium bowl. Cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to add them to the stew. This step ensures the seafood stays fresh and chilled.
  2. In a medium Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted and slightly bubbly, add the chopped onion, bell peppers, celery, jalapeño, and garlic. Sauté these vegetables for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and aromatic. The combination of colors and flavors here sets the stage for a rich and hearty stew.
  3. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes until the flour is lightly toasted and takes on a golden brown color. This step thickens the stew and adds a nutty depth to the broth. Afterward, stir in the tomato paste, ensuring it evenly coats the vegetables.
  4. Add the Liquid Ingredients: Slowly whisk in the warm seafood stock, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This is where the deep, savory flavors really begin to develop. Add the fire-roasted diced tomatoes, sherry, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, and Creole seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer gently for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the pot.
  5. Once the broth has simmered and the flavors have melded together, add the shrimp and grouper mixture along with the salt and crushed red pepper. Cover the pot and let everything simmer for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The seafood will cook through and absorb the rich, tangy broth. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
  6. Ladle the courtbouillon into bowls and serve it with a few lemon wedges on the side. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a touch of brightness and color to this already vibrant dish.

Creole Courtbouillon offers the best of Louisiana’s coastal cuisine in a single bowl. The fresh seafood, combined with the bright, flavorful broth of tomatoes and peppers, makes this dish a standout. Whether you’re a seafood lover or new to Creole cooking, this courtbouillon is sure to impress with its complexity and depth of flavor. It’s a dish that brings the Gulf to your table with every bite, and once you’ve tried it, it’s likely to become a regular in your recipe rotation.

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Coastal Delight: Homemade Stovetop Shrimp Boil

There’s something inherently charming about a seafood boil. It’s a meal that brings together a delightful array of flavors, all in one pot, making it an ideal choice for a casual yet special dinner for two. Today, we’re diving into a stovetop shrimp boil recipe that is not only easy to prepare but also a burst of deliciousness. Accompanied by a rich and tangy Crawfish Dip, this delicious recipe for a Stovetop Shrimp Boil from Louisiana Cookin promises a culinary experience that will transport you to the coastal shores.

Ingredients for Stovetop Shrimp Boil:

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Stockpot: Begin by lining a large stockpot with a steamer basket and filling it with 1 gallon of cold water. Place the pot over high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil.
  2. Season the Water: Add the liquid seafood boil, the Slap Ya Mama Seafood Boil seasoning, garlic heads, and bay leaves to the boiling water. Squeeze the lemon halves into the pot, dropping the hulls in afterward for added zest.
  3. Initial Cooking: Once the water returns to a boil, add the halved red potatoes and the quartered sweet onion. Let them cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 to 15 minutes, until the potatoes are halfway done.
  4. Add the Corn: Introduce the halved ears of corn to the pot and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
  5. Cook the Shrimp: Gently add the shrimp to the pot, ensuring they are fully submerged in the boiling liquid. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to medium, and cook until the shrimp turn pink and firm, and the shells start to peel away from the meat. This should take about 5 to 10 minutes.
  6. Serve: Drain the water from the pot and serve the shrimp boil immediately. Pair it with the delicious Crawfish Dip for an enhanced flavor experience.
  7. For the Crawfish Dip, you’ll combine the following ingredients:
  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced yellow onion, Cajun seasoning, ground black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, grated garlic, fermented crab paste, hot sauce, and the juice of one lemon.
  2. Mix and Chill: Whisk all the ingredients until they are well combined. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dip for up to a week. Serve chilled alongside your shrimp boil.

Side Dish Suggestions:

To create a well-rounded meal, consider serving your stovetop shrimp boil with a variety of side dishes. Here are some suggestions:

  • Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw with a tangy vinaigrette can add a refreshing crunch to your meal.
  • Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices from the shrimp boil.
  • Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light dressing can balance the richness of the shrimp and dip.
  • Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned and grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus can add a smoky flavor to your meal.

A stovetop shrimp boil s a delightful way to enjoy a seafood feast at home. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together the best of seafood, vegetables, and robust seasonings in one pot. The accompanying Crawfish Dip adds an extra layer of richness, making every bite a burst of flavor. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a special meal to share with a loved one, this shrimp boil recipe is sure to impress.

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Spice Up Your Seafood Game with This Charbroiled Oyster Recipe

Today, we’re diving into the world of Charbroiled Oysters, as per this delicious recipe from Louisiana Cookin. This uncomplicated charbroiled oyster recipe brings together the richness of fresh oysters, the smokiness of paprika, and the zesty kick of Creole seasoning. Perfect for any occasion, let’s explore the details of crafting this flavorful treat.

Ingredients for Charbroiled Oyster Recipe:

Directions for Charbroiled Oyster Recipe:

  1. Begin by melting the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the butter turns a golden brown and develops a toasty aroma, which should take approximately 3 to 5 minutes.
  2. Remove the saucepan from heat, then add in the minced garlic, hot sauce, smoked paprika, Creole seasoning, and lemon zest to create a flavorful butter mixture. Set aside.
  3. Preheat your oven’s broiler and position the rack in the center. Take a 12-inch cast-iron skillet and fill it halfway with food-grade rock salt. This not only enhances the presentation but also ensures even cooking. Arrange thefresh oysters on the half shell atop the rock salt.
  4. Spoon the prepared browned butter mixture generously over each oyster, ensuring they are well-coated with the flavorful blend. Slide the skillet under the broiler and let the magic happen. In just 3 to 5 minutes, the butter mixture will become irresistibly bubbly, enhancing the natural taste of the oysters.
  5. Once done, serve these charbroiled delights with slices of crusty French bread and lemon wedges. The addition of fresh parsley provides a vibrant and herbal touch, completing the dish.

Side Dish Suggestions:

To complement the robust flavors of your charbroiled oysters, consider pairing them with some delightful side dishes. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, roasted vegetables drizzled with balsamic glaze, or even a light coleslaw would make excellent choices. These sides not only add variety to your meal but also balance the richness of the oysters.

Zesty Green Salad: Introduce a refreshing element to your meal with a crisp green salad. Combine a mix of arugula, spinach, and watercress for a vibrant base. Toss in cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced radishes, and cucumber ribbons for added crunch. Drizzle with a zesty vinaigrette made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and a hint of honey.

Roasted Vegetables with Balsamic Glaze: Elevate your charbroiled oysters with a side of caramelized and roasted vegetables. Choose a medley of seasonal vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and asparagus. Roast them in the oven until they develop a golden brown color, then finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy touch.

Light and Tangy Coleslaw: Balance the richness of the oysters with a light and tangy coleslaw. Shred cabbage and carrots, and mix with a dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, a touch of sugar, and celery seeds. This crisp and flavorful coleslaw adds a delightful crunch to each bite.

Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes: Create a comforting side dish with garlic herb roasted potatoes. Cube potatoes and toss them in a blend of olive oil, minced garlic, fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, salt, and pepper. Roast until golden and crispy on the outside, offering a satisfying contrast to the tender oysters.

Quinoa Salad with Citrus Dressing: Embrace a healthier option with a quinoa salad featuring bright citrus flavors. Cook quinoa and let it cool before mixing with segments of orange or grapefruit, diced avocado, and chopped fresh herbs like mint and cilantro. Drizzle with a citrus dressing for a burst of freshness.

In conclusion, charbroiled oysters offer a tantalizing blend of flavors that will elevate your dining experience. This recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that is both impressive and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a special treat, these charbroiled oysters are sure to leave a lasting impression.

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Step into Cajun Cuisine with a Delicious Shrimp Boil

If you’re looking to bring a taste of Louisiana to your dining table, this Cajun Shrimp Boil recipe from Louisiana Cookin is just what you need. Bursting with bold flavors and succulent shrimp, this dish is a true Cajun delight. The best part? You can personalize it by adding your favorite ingredients alongside the shrimp, so get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
  2. Trim about half an inch off the top end of each garlic bulb, ensuring the cloves remain intact. Place the garlic bulbs, cut side up, on a sheet of aluminum foil. Drizzle them with olive oil, then tightly wrap the foil around them.
  3. Pop the garlic package into the preheated oven and let it roast until the cloves turn soft and golden, which should take around one hour. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist the anticipation of the flavorful shrimp boil to come.
  4. Time to prepare the stockpot for the boil! Fill a large stockpot with 12 quarts of water. Now, add the concentrated shrimp and crab boil, along with the crawfish, shrimp, and crab boil bag. Squeeze the juice from the halved lemons into the pot, then toss in the lemon halves themselves. Include the bay leaves and black peppercorns as well. Give everything a good stir to distribute the flavors evenly.
  5. Cover the stockpot and crank up the heat until the water reaches a rolling boil. Maintain this vigorous boil for about 30 minutes to allow the spices to infuse the liquid.
  6. Time to add the roasted garlic, celery, and onions to the pot. Once they’re in, let the boil resume its lively bubbling for another 5 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and create a savory base.
  7. Carefully introduce the unpeeled fresh shrimp into the pot. Give it a gentle stir to ensure every shrimp is fully immersed in the flavorful broth. Cover the pot, turn off the heat, and let it sit for 10 minutes. This will allow the shrimp to cook gently in the residual heat, ensuring they remain plump and juicy.
  8. Now comes the exciting part—draining the shrimp boil. Remove the lid, carefully pour the contents of the pot into a colander, and bid farewell to the seasoning bag and bay leaves as they make their exit. Your aromatic Cajun shrimp, infused with the essence of garlic and spices, are now ready to be devoured.
  9. To serve your Cajun Shrimp Boil, provide lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, melted butter, rémoulade sauce, Cajun seasoning, and French bread on the side. These accompaniments will complement the flavors and add an extra layer of deliciousness to your meal. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant finishing touch.

Side Dish Suggestions:

  • Corn on the cob: Boil some fresh corn on the cob alongside the shrimp for a classic Southern side dish. Serve it with a slather of butter and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning.
  • Red potatoes: Boil small red potatoes until tender, then toss them in melted butter and sprinkle with chopped parsley. They make a delightful addition to the shrimp boil.
  • Hush puppies: Whip up a batch of golden, crispy hush puppies to accompany your Cajun feast. These cornmeal-based fritters are perfect for savoring the flavors of the shrimp boil.

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Cajun Grilled Herbed Red Snapper: A Delight for Seafood Lovers

If you find yourself tired of the same old fish dishes and are looking for something new and exciting to tantalize your taste buds, then look no further than this Cajun Grilled Herbed Fish recipe from Louisiana Cookin. This delightful red snapper entree combines the natural freshness of fish with the aromatic blend of herbs, creating a tantalizing dish that will surely impress your family and friends. So, let’s dive into the details and learn how to prepare, cook, and serve this seafood delicacy.

Ingredients for Red Snapper 

Directions for cooking the Red Snapper

  1. You’ll want to start this dish by preparing a charcoal grill, creating a medium-hot fire, or if you prefer, you can preheat the grill to a medium-high temperature ranging from 350°F to 400°F.
  2. Make three diagonal cuts on both sides of the fish, ensuring they are approximately 1½ inches apart. Fill each of these slits with a generous tablespoon of delicious Shrimp Butter. You’ll create the Shrimp Butter by taking a large dutch oven and heating vegetable oil over medium heat. You’ll then add shrimp shells and garlic and cook until the shells turn pink. At which point, add butter and zest and cook until the butter is melted and bubbly. Remove this from the heat and allow it to cool completely. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve and discard any solids. Fill each of the slits on the fish with a generous tablespoon of your Shrimp Butter.
  3. Rub the fish with oil, and season skin and cavities with salt, pepper, and bourbon seasoning. Stuff the fish with oregano, dill, basil, thyme, and sections from lemon slices. Grill fish on one side until skin no longer sticks, 4 to 6 minutes. Using a metal spatula, carefully turn fish, and grill until cooked through, 4 to 6 minutes more. Transfer to a serving platter.
  4. Serve with lemon wedges and additional Shrimp Butter, and garnish with herbs, if desired. For instance, you can sprinkle a handful of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro over the fish for a vibrant pop of color and a burst of freshness.
  5. Enjoy!

Notes:

  • To ensure the best flavors and textures, it’s crucial to choose the right type of fish. Opt for firm-fleshed varieties such as redfish, catfish, trout, or snapper. Freshness is key, so purchase your fish from a reliable source. Look for clear, bright eyes, vibrant skin, and a mild sea-like aroma. Avoid any fish with a fishy smell or slimy texture.
  • Two Delicious side dishes: Cajun Corn Maque Choux: Sauté fresh corn, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes in butter until tender. Season with Cajun spices, salt, and pepper. Creole Potato Salad: Boil diced potatoes until tender, then mix them with mayonnaise, Creole mustard, green onions, and parsley. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully prepared a delicious Cajun Grilled Herbed Fish that is bursting with flavors. The combination of herbs, spices, and perfectly grilled fish will transport your taste buds to the heart of Louisiana. Remember, the key is to select fresh fish, marinate it to perfection, and cook it just right on the grill. Enjoy this delightful meal with your loved ones, and let the flavors of Cajun cuisine transport you to the vibrant culinary world of Louisiana.

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Simple and Classic Seafood Boil Recipe

In South Louisiana, backyard crawfish or seafood boils are the types of events that you look forward to all year round. Whether it’s the communal eating tradition, methods by which you prepare or ingest the cuisine, or just the flavors of the boiled seafood and vegetables themselves, there’s always something to look forward to. Luckily this recipe for a Creole-Seasoned Seafood Boil from food blog Food52 with supplemental information from Everyday Creole is the perfect resource you need to keep the spirit of a successful Louisiana Seafood Boil alive and well.

 Before beginning the recipe, it should be duly noted that this is by no means a definitive list of ingredients or cooking practices. As anyone who’s ever been at the helm of a boiling stockpot knows, every Louisiana chef and cook has their own method to their particular culinary madness. That being said, the tried-and-true phrase of “fresh is best” should apply in this recipe, as it often does. When procuring seafood, sausages, and vegetables, it’s always a good practice to try and get the freshest, locally sourced ingredients available. This will not only elevate your final dish but also your Creole authenticity.

Ingredients:

Directions:

  1. You’ll start this recipe by filling your large stockpot to its halfway marker with water. Bring the water to a boil before proceeding.
  2. Once boiling, add in your beer, ¾ cup of Creole Seasoning, ¼ cup of smoked paprika, 1 ½ teaspoon of Concentrated Crawfish, Shrimp & Crab Boil, bay leaves, red potatoes, lemons, and your halved head of garlic. Stir in your ingredients, and bring the stockpot back up to a boil.
  3. In a nearby skillet or saucepan, brown your sausage quarters until they emit their oils and are properly slightly blackened on both sides. Then, add your sausage into the stockpot, stir together the ingredient mixture and sausage, and bring your heat down to medium. Simmer for at least 15 minutes or until your potatoes are slightly tender.  When they are, add in your corn, while continuing to cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  4. Add in your shrimp and crab to the stockpot at this point, and continue to cook it all until the seafood is fully cooked. While this happens, melt your butter into a saucepan over medium heat after you dispose of the sausage oil from earlier. Stir in your minced garlic into the nutter, and cook until the butter begins to caramelize. Stir in the brown sugar, lemon pepper seasoning, 2 tablespoons of Creole Seasoning, 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika, onion powder, and ½ teaspoon of Concentrated Crawfish, Shrimp & Crab Boil. Simmer this all on low until you’re ready to serve.
  5. When finished, drain the liquid from the stockpot and serve your seafood boil immediately. Feel free to drizzle the butter sauce atop your boil or use it as a complimentary dip.
  6. Enjoy!

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