Commander’s Palace BBQ Shrimp is a Louisiana classic that deserves equally delightful accompaniments. Start with a crusty French baguette, whose satisfying crunch contrasts perfectly with the soft, buttery interior, ideal for soaking up that zesty sauce.
Fluffy jasmine rice is another excellent choice, as it absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully while adding a lovely texture.
For a refreshing counterbalance, consider serving a tangy coleslaw; the crispness of fresh cabbage offers a delightful crunch alongside the spicy shrimp. Finally, sweet, buttery corn on the cob rounds out the meal, bringing a fun, summertime vibe to your gathering.
As a food enthusiast who delves into culture through cuisine, I absolutely adore the unique charm of Commander’s Palace BBQ Shrimp. It’s one of those dishes that wraps you in warmth and leaves you craving more. Originating from New Orleans, this dish is a culinary hug on a plate. You’ll find yourself drawn in by the spices and the way the flavors fuse just right. Everyone deserves a taste of this iconic dish, and I cannot wait to share the secrets to making it at home.
Now, I must confess, the first time I had BBQ shrimp from Commander’s Palace, I was enchanted. The zesty garlic sauce paired with perfectly cooked shrimp was nothing short of magic. What really impressed me wasn’t just the flavor but also the culture and tradition that surrounded the dish. So let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special and how you can recreate it in your kitchen.
What is Commander’s Palace BBQ Shrimp?
At its core, Commander’s Palace BBQ Shrimp is a tantalizing dish featuring large, succulent shrimp bathed in a spicy, buttery sauce. This isn’t your average BBQ affair; it’s a luxurious twist on shrimp that invites people to gather around the table. The base of this recipe involves a medley of Cajun spices, garlic, hot sauce, and of course, a generous amount of butter. When combined, these ingredients create a rich sauce that simply begs for a piece of bread to mop it up!
Why This Recipe Works
The heart of this recipe lies in the balance of flavors. Cajun spices bring the heat, while butter and Worcestershire sauce provide depth and richness. Garlic gives it a punch, and fresh lemon juice adds a refreshing zing. This dish works because of the interplay between spicy, savory, and fresh notes, making each bite a delightful experience.
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Let’s gather what you’ll need to whip up this delicious BBQ shrimp:
- 1 crusty baguette
- 2 tablespoons Cajun spice blend (or Creole seasoning)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 6 tablespoons hot sauce
- 6 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 5 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup canola oil
- 16 large shrimp, shells removed and deveined (tails intact)
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped rosemary
- 1/2 cup lager beer
Having these ingredients ready sets the stage for a truly memorable meal.
How to Make Commander’s Palace BBQ Shrimp
Making Commander’s Palace BBQ Shrimp is not only easy, but it also comes together quickly. Let’s lay out the steps to bring this dish to life!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before diving into cooking, you need to assemble all your ingredients. Ensure nothing is left behind. This prep step will save you a lot of time!
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by cleaning and deveining the shrimp if you haven’t done so yet. Leave the tails on for presentation and that finger-licking fun. Rinse them under cold water, and pat them dry with kitchen towels.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, mix the Cajun spice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, canola oil, and beer. This vibrant mixture is what your shrimp will swim in! Select a bowl that allows enough room for whisking and combining the flavors thoroughly.
Step 4: Start Cooking
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 6 tablespoons of butter. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, beckoning anyone nearby. Once the butter is melted, pour your sauce mixture into the skillet. Simmer gently for 5–8 minutes. You want to give the spices time to meld together.
Step 5: Add the Shrimp
Now that your sauce is simmered, it’s time to add the shrimp. Place them in the skillet and cook for roughly 3–5 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a beautiful pink color and become opaque.
Step 6: Final Touches
Finally, add the remaining butter cubes and chopped parsley to the skillet. Stir them in until the butter is melted and the sauce becomes luxuriously creamy. This is the moment when your mouth is almost watering in anticipation!
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Spoon the BBQ shrimp and sauce onto plates. Don’t forget to set out that crusty baguette so everyone can enjoy dipping into the sauce. This dish is best served hot!
Tips for Success
Here are some helpful tips to ensure that your BBQ shrimp shines:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp, when available, will make a noticeable difference. Frozen shrimp can work too, but make sure to thaw completely before cooking.
- Adjust the Spice: If you’re not a fan of heat, start with less Cajun seasoning. You can always add more if it needs a kick.
- Thickness of Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer before adding the shrimp. Conversely, for a thinner sauce, just give it a quick simmer.
- Serving Temperature: This dish tastes best when served immediately. Enjoy it with friends or family so you all can bask in every delightful bite!
- Provenance of Ingredients: Purchasing local ingredients can enhance flavor. Look for butter or spices that have roots in your local area, if possible.
How to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers (though they might be hard to resist), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure they cool down before sealing. Properly stored, they can last for up to two days. Reheat them gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
Nutrition Information
Commander’s Palace BBQ Shrimp Recipe nutrition facts
How Would I Recommend Serving Commander’s Palace BBQ Shrimp?
Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your BBQ shrimp experience:
- Serve With a Fresh Salad: A vibrant green salad with fresh vegetables pairs beautifully. Think of mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes tossed in a light vinaigrette. This will add an excellent contrast to the richness of the shrimp.
- Sweet Cornbread on the Side: Warm, buttery cornbread is fantastic for balancing the dish’s heat. The subtle sweetness complements the spicy shrimp so well.
- Pair with a White Wine: A cold glass of Sauvignon Blanc will enhance the dining experience. Its crispness will cut through the richness of the sauce. Alternatively, a light lager also complements the flavors nicely.
- For Extra Dipping Pleasure: Consider a side of fries or potato wedges. The crispy exterior adds an unexpected texture to your meal, making it fun and messy.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?
In case you don’t have some ingredients handy, here are some alternatives:
- Shrimp: Chicken or tofu can be used as a protein substitute. If opting for chicken, make sure to cut it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Lager Beer: If beer isn’t your thing, chicken broth works well as a substitute. It won’t provide the exact flavor but will add moisture to the sauce.
- Cajun Spice Blend: If you’re out, the combination of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano can act as a suitable substitute. This mix can pack flavor and allow you to control the heat.
- Fresh Parsley: Chives or cilantro can be nice alternatives. They’ll lend a different but equally tasty herbaceous note.
Commander’s Palace BBQ Shrimp Recipe
Equipment
- Medium bowl
- Large skillet
Ingredients
- 1 crusty baguette
- 2 tablespoons Cajun spice blend or Creole seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 12 tablespoons cold unsalted butter cut into small cubes
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 6 tablespoons hot sauce
- 6 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 5 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup canola oil
- 16 large shrimp shells removed and deveined (tails intact)
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped rosemary
- 1/2 cup lager beer
Instructions
- Before diving into cooking, you need to assemble all your ingredients. Ensure nothing is left behind. This prep step will save you a lot of time!
- Start by cleaning and deveining the shrimp if you haven’t done so yet. Leave the tails on for presentation and that finger-licking fun. Rinse them under cold water, and pat them dry with kitchen towels.
- In a medium bowl, mix the Cajun spice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, canola oil, and beer. This vibrant mixture is what your shrimp will swim in! Select a bowl that allows enough room for whisking and combining the flavors thoroughly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 6 tablespoons of butter. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, beckoning anyone nearby. Once the butter is melted, pour your sauce mixture into the skillet. Simmer gently for 5–8 minutes. You want to give the spices time to meld together.
- Now that your sauce is simmered, it’s time to add the shrimp. Place them in the skillet and cook for roughly 3–5 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a beautiful pink color and become opaque.
- Finally, add the remaining butter cubes and chopped parsley to the skillet. Stir them in until the butter is melted and the sauce becomes luxuriously creamy. This is the moment when your mouth is almost watering in anticipation!
- Spoon the BBQ shrimp and sauce onto plates. Don’t forget to set out that crusty baguette so everyone can enjoy dipping into the sauce. This dish is best served hot!
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp, when available, will make a noticeable difference. Frozen shrimp can work too, but make sure to thaw completely before cooking.
- Adjust the Spice: If you’re not a fan of heat, start with less Cajun seasoning. You can always add more if it needs a kick.
- Thickness of Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer before adding the shrimp. Conversely, for a thinner sauce, just give it a quick simmer.
- Serving Temperature: This dish tastes best when served immediately. Enjoy it with friends or family so you all can bask in every delightful bite!
- Provenance of Ingredients: Purchasing local ingredients can enhance flavor. Look for butter or spices that have roots in your local area, if possible.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Crafting Commander’s Palace BBQ Shrimp at home is more than just a cooking project; it’s an experience that transports you straight to New Orleans. Each bite is a journey filled with warmth and delight. From pairing suggestions to tips for perfecting the dish, every detail matters.
As you prepare the shrimp and let the flavors meld together, remember that food is meant to be shared. Gather your loved ones and enjoy this tasty treasure with good company. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple for your special gatherings, just like it is for New Orleans food lovers. So grab that baguette, and let’s dig in!
