Sizzling Shrimp with Pernod Cream Sauce
Transport yourself to a charming Montreal cafe with this delectable recipe for Sizzling Shrimp in Pernod Cream Sauce. This dish combines plump, juicy shrimp with a rich cream sauce, delicately infused with the unique anise flavor of Pernod and a hint of heat from green peppercorns. Perfectly tailored for a romantic dinner for two, this dish is sure to impress with its elegant presentation and delightful taste. Serve it alongside a crusty baguette to savor every drop of that luscious sauce.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
fresh shrimp
8 (very large, shelled & deveined)
butter
2 tablespoons (unsalted)
green peppercorn
1 teaspoon (lightly crushed)
Pernod
2 tablespoons (to flambé)
chopped fresh chives
2 tablespoons (fresh)
cream
1/2 cup (heavy or whipping cream)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until foamy.
2
Add the green peppercorns and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3
Gently add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking for 1 to 1½ minutes on each side until they turn a vibrant pink and are just cooked through.
4
Carefully pour the Pernod into the skillet and ignite it with a long lighter to flambé. Allow the flames to subside as the alcohol cooks off and the essence of Pernod infuses the dish.
5
Stir in the chopped chives and pour in the cream, stirring gently to combine. Lower the heat and let it simmer for just a couple of minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
6
Serve the shrimp immediately, drizzled generously with the creamy sauce, and accompany with plenty of crusty bread for dipping.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sizzling Shrimp with Pernod Cream Sauce?
It is a flavorful seafood dish featuring large shrimp cooked in a rich cream sauce flavored with anise-noted Pernod and green peppercorns.
What flavor does Pernod add to the recipe?
Pernod provides a unique and elegant anise or licorice flavor that defines the sauce.
How many shrimp are required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 8 very large fresh shrimp.
What type of cream should be used for the sauce?
Heavy cream or whipping cream is recommended to achieve the desired richness and thickness.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking.
How do I flambé the Pernod safely?
Carefully pour the Pernod into the skillet and ignite it with a long lighter, allowing the flames to die down naturally.
What is the best side dish to serve with this?
A crusty baguette is ideal for soaking up the delicious cream sauce.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
You can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce any additional salt added to the dish.
What are green peppercorns?
They are unripe peppercorns that offer a milder heat and more aromatic flavor than black peppercorns.
How long do the shrimp need to cook?
Shrimp should be cooked for about 1 to 1.5 minutes on each side until they turn vibrant pink.
Is this recipe suitable for a romantic dinner?
Yes, its elegant presentation and rich flavors make it perfect for a dinner for two.
Can I use dried chives instead of fresh?
Fresh chives are preferred for their bright flavor, but dried chives can be substituted if necessary.
What is the origin of the inspiration for this dish?
The dish is inspired by the charming cafe culture found in Montreal.
How should the shrimp be prepared before cooking?
The shrimp should be shelled and deveined prior to being added to the skillet.
What can I substitute for Pernod?
Other anise-flavored spirits like Ouzo or Sambuca can work, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
How do I thicken the Pernod cream sauce?
Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes to allow it to thicken naturally.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best served immediately to ensure the shrimp remain tender and the sauce is hot.
Is the Sizzling Shrimp recipe spicy?
It has a mild hint of heat from the green peppercorns but is generally not a spicy dish.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This specific recipe is tailored to serve two people.
What kind of pan is best for this recipe?
A large skillet is best for even cooking and providing enough surface area for the flambé.
Why is unsalted butter used?
Unsalted butter allows the cook to better control the overall sodium level in the delicate cream sauce.
How do I prepare the green peppercorns?
They should be lightly crushed to release their fragrance before being sautéed in butter.
Can I double the recipe for more guests?
Yes, you can double the ingredients, but cook the shrimp in batches to avoid crowding the pan.
What if I am afraid to flambé the alcohol?
You can let the Pernod simmer for a longer period to cook off the alcohol, though you will miss the flambé essence.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The shrimp and sauce ingredients are gluten-free, but you should avoid serving it with traditional bread.
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half can be used, but the sauce will be significantly thinner and less indulgent.
How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?
The shrimp are done when they are opaque throughout and have curled into a 'C' shape.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Pre-cooked shrimp are not recommended as they will likely become tough and overcooked in the sauce.
What type of bread is best for dipping?
A crusty French baguette is the most popular choice for this Montreal-inspired recipe.
How do I devein shrimp for this recipe?
Use a small knife to make a shallow slit along the back of the shrimp and remove the dark intestinal tract.