Spicy V8 Creole Shrimp and Sausage Soup
Dive into the rich, bold flavors of the South with this Spicy V8 Creole Shrimp and Sausage Soup. Featuring succulent shrimp, hearty andouille sausage, and a medley of vibrant vegetables, this soup strikes the perfect balance between savory and slightly spicy notes. The addition of V8 vegetable juice enhances the depth of flavor while providing a nutritious boost. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds. It's quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight meal that delivers on taste without demanding hours in the kitchen.
4-6
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
andouille sausage
1 cup (diced)
green pepper
1 cup (diced)
celery
1 cup (diced)
onion
1 cup (diced)
chicken broth
1 quart (homemade or store-bought)
frozen okra
10 ounces (thawed)
diced tomatoes
1 (14 1/2 ounce) can (with juice)
shrimp
1 lb (peeled and cooked)
vegetable juice
1 cup (V8 or similar brand)
garlic
2 teaspoons (chopped)
fresh thyme
2 teaspoons (chopped (or much less if using dried))
Instructions
1
In a large saucepot, heat over medium heat. Add the diced andouille sausage and sauté for about 5 minutes until it starts to brown and release its flavorful oils.
2
Stir in the diced green pepper, celery, and onion. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
3
Pour in the chicken broth, and stir in the thawed okra, diced tomatoes (with juice), cooked shrimp, vegetable juice, chopped garlic, and fresh thyme.
4
Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme or hot sauce if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy V8 Creole Shrimp and Sausage Soup?
It is a Southern-inspired soup featuring shrimp, andouille sausage, and V8 vegetable juice for a bold and savory flavor profile.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 4-6 servings.
What type of sausage should I use?
The recipe specifically calls for 1 cup of diced andouille sausage for an authentic Creole flavor.
Is the shrimp used in this recipe raw or cooked?
The recipe calls for 1 pound of peeled and cooked shrimp.
How much V8 juice is required?
You will need 1 cup of vegetable juice, such as V8 or a similar brand.
What vegetables are included in the base?
The soup base includes 1 cup each of diced green pepper, celery, and onion.
Does this soup contain okra?
Yes, it includes 10 ounces of frozen okra that has been thawed.
How long does it take to sauté the sausage?
The andouille sausage should be sautéed for about 5 minutes until it browns and releases its oils.
How long do the vegetables need to cook?
After adding the peppers, celery, and onion, cook them for an additional 5 minutes until softened.
What kind of broth is used?
The recipe requires 1 quart of chicken broth, which can be homemade or store-bought.
Are the tomatoes drained?
No, you should use one 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes including the juice.
What aromatics are added to the soup?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of chopped garlic and 2 teaspoons of fresh chopped thyme.
How long does the soup simmer?
Once all ingredients are combined, bring it to a simmer and cook for about 8-10 minutes.
Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?
Yes, but use much less than the 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme requested.
What can I use for a garnish?
You can garnish the soup with additional fresh thyme or your favorite hot sauce.
Is this soup spicy?
Yes, the combination of andouille sausage and Creole-style ingredients provides a slightly spicy note.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy, low-calorie option that includes a variety of vegetables.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 primary ingredients required for this soup.
What is the total simmering time?
The soup simmers for 8 to 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to heat a large saucepot and sauté the diced andouille sausage.
Do I need to add extra oil to sauté the sausage?
The instructions suggest the sausage will release its own flavorful oils during the 5-minute sauté.
When do I add the garlic?
The chopped garlic is added along with the broth, okra, tomatoes, and other liquids.
What kind of pepper is used?
The recipe specifies using 1 cup of diced green pepper.
Is this a good weeknight meal?
Yes, it is designed to be quick to prepare without demanding hours in the kitchen.
What provides the depth of flavor in this soup?
The addition of V8 vegetable juice and andouille sausage oils enhances the depth of flavor.
What temperature should the stove be?
The recipe suggests using medium heat for sautéing and then bringing the mixture to a simmer.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of chopped garlic.
Can I add extra spice?
Yes, you can adjust the seasoning to taste or add hot sauce at the end.
What is the preparation for the celery?
The celery should be diced before being added to the pot.
Is the onion cooked before adding the broth?
Yes, the onion is sautéed with the peppers and celery for 5 minutes before the liquids are poured in.