Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this recipe?
The recipe is called Savory Shrimp Creole Delight Over Fluffy Rice.
What is the main protein used in this dish?
The main protein used in this dish is 1 1/2 lbs of small shrimp.
Should I discard the shrimp shells immediately?
No, you should reserve the shells to make a homemade shrimp broth.
How do I prepare the shrimp broth?
Rinse the shells, then boil them in 2 cups of water for 20 minutes and strain.
How much shrimp broth is needed for the sauce?
You will need approximately 1 1/4 cups of shrimp broth.
What should I do if I have less than 1 1/4 cups of broth?
You can adjust the quantity by adding more water to reach the desired amount.
How is the garlic used in this recipe?
Two halved garlic cloves are cooked in butter to infuse flavor and then discarded.
How long should the shrimp cook in the skillet initially?
The shrimp should cook for about 3 minutes until they are just pink.
What is the total amount of butter required?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of butter, divided into two uses.
Which vegetables are sautéed for the Creole sauce?
The sauce includes finely chopped onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, mushrooms, and celery.
How long should the vegetables be sautéed?
The vegetables should be sautéed for approximately 5 minutes until tender.
What kind of paprika is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of sweet paprika.
Why is all-purpose flour added to the vegetables?
Flour is added to help thicken the sauce into a creamy consistency.
How long do you cook the flour and paprika mixture?
They should be cooked for 3 minutes over moderate-low heat.
When do I add the tomato paste?
Add the tomato paste along with the reserved shrimp broth after the flour has cooked.
How long is the final simmer once the shrimp are returned to the pan?
The shrimp should simmer in the sauce for about 3 minutes.
What provides the creamy finish to the sauce?
Two tablespoons of sour cream are stirred in after the skillet is removed from heat.
How can I add spice to the dish?
You can add 1/4 teaspoon of Tabasco sauce, or more to taste.
How is the dish traditionally served?
It is served by spooning the shrimp mixture into the center of a prepared rice ring.
What is used as a garnish?
The dish is garnished with 1/4 cup of minced fresh parsley.
How much onion is needed?
The recipe uses 1/3 cup of finely chopped onion.
How much celery is required?
You will need 1/4 cup of finely chopped celery.
Are both red and green bell peppers used?
Yes, the recipe uses 1/2 cup of each.
What quantity of mushrooms is necessary?
The recipe calls for 3 ounces of chopped mushrooms.
Is the shrimp fully cooked in the first step?
No, they are cooked until just pink and finished later in the sauce.
What type of heat is used for sautéing the vegetables?
The vegetables are sautéed over moderate heat.
How do you strain the shrimp broth?
Use a fine sieve lined with a damp paper towel to ensure a clear broth.
What color should the garlic be before removing it?
The garlic should turn a pale golden color.
Is salt and pepper included?
Yes, you should adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste at the end.
How much tomato paste is used?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of tomato paste.