This Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice recipe will take you on a mouthwatering adventure that combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with succulent shrimp and a rainbow of veggies.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of taste, bringing a burst of joy to your dinner table!
Let’ start by talking about the stars of the show – our juicy, plump shrimp! Picture this: they’re sizzling in the pan, soaking up all the goodness of Cajun spices. Paprika, cayenne, garlic powder – they’re all invited to this flavor party. As the shrimp dance in the pan, they absorb these zesty notes, becoming the heroes of our Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice. Each bite is a celebration of bold, savory perfection that’ll have you saying, “More, please!”
Now, let’s give a shout-out to our trusty sidekick – rice! But not just any rice, we’re talking about fluffy jasmine rice soaking up all those Cajun vibes. It’s like the rice is on a mission to carry those spicy notes to every corner of your taste buds. Close your eyes, take a bite, and let the rice become a canvas of flavors that’ll make your taste buds do the tango. It’s comfort meets excitement in every forkful!
But wait, there’s more! Our Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice is not just about shrimp and rice – it’s a veggie extravaganza! Picture vibrant bell peppers and green onions joining the party. These veggies aren’t just here for looks (although they do add a pop of color), they bring a symphony of textures that perfectly complements the bold Cajun seasoning. It’s a flavor explosion and a textural delight – a true party in your mouth!
Let’s talk about the real MVP – Cajun seasoning! It’s like a flavor fiesta in every bite. The spices playfully dance together, creating a melody of taste that’s both exciting and comforting. Close your eyes and let the Cajun magic take over. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that’ll have you craving that unmistakable Cajun kick. It’s bold, it’s sassy, and it’s downright delicious!
As you embark on this culinary adventure, there’s something magical happening in your kitchen. The aroma of Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice fills the air, and you can’t help but smile. The act of preparing this dish becomes a joyful experience, a journey into the heart of flavor. And when you gather your loved ones around the table, you’re not just sharing a meal; you’re creating memories. It’s the joy of cooking together, the happiness of being surrounded by those you love, and the anticipation of savoring something truly extraordinary.
At Sparkles of Yum, we believe in celebrating the joy of good food, and this Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice recipe is a shining example of that philosophy. It’s a dish that sparkles with yumminess, a culinary masterpiece that deserves a place in your recipe repertoire. So, gather your foodie squad, set the table with excitement, and let the magic of Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice turn an ordinary evening into a sparkly, flavor-filled fiesta!
What can you serve with this Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice?
- Pairing the vibrant and bold flavors of Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice with complementary side dishes and a well-matched wine can elevate your dining experience. Here are some suggested side dishes and wine pairings to enhance your Cajun-inspired feast:
- Cornbread Muffins:
- The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread complements the spicy Cajun flavors. It’s perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce from the fried rice.
- Avocado and Tomato Salad:
- A refreshing salad with ripe avocados, juicy tomatoes, and a lime vinaigrette adds a cooling element to balance the heat of the Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob:
- Grill corn on the cob with Cajun spices for a smoky and slightly spicy side that complements the rice dish.
Wine Pairings:
- Sauvignon Blanc:
- The crisp acidity and citrus notes of Sauvignon Blanc cut through the richness of the shrimp and enhance the flavors of the dish.
- Chardonnay:
- A buttery Chardonnay with a touch of oak complements the creamy texture of the
- Cornbread Muffins:
Some tips:
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- Storage: Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, sprinkle a bit of water on the rice to prevent it from drying out and heat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
- Make-Ahead: You can prep the shrimp, veggies, and even cook the rice ahead of time. Assemble everything when you’re ready to serve.
- Customization: Feel free to add extras like diced pineapple, peas, or even a dash of soy sauce for an extra flavor kick.
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If you LOVE this Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice recipe, try this Cajun Shrimp Etouffee OR this New Orleans Barbeque Shrimp!
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Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice
This Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice recipe will take you on a mouthwatering adventure that combines Cajun seasoning with succulent shrimp and a rainbow of veggies.
Ingredients
- 1 pound raw large shrimp, shelled, deveined, patted dry
- 12 ounces Andouille sausage sliced ½-inch thick
- 2 teaspoons Creole seasoning (I used Tony Chachere)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 1/2 cups long grain basmati rice, thoroughly rinsed and drained
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded & diced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 3/4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 15 oz. can fire roasted diced tomatoes, not drained
- 2 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a bowl, toss the raw shrimp with Creole seasoning until evenly coated.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the seasoned shrimp and sliced Andouille sausage. Sauté until the shrimp turn pink and the sausage is browned. Once cooked, remove the shrimp and sausage from the pan and set aside. - In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
Add chopped onions, diced red bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and aromatic. - Stir in the thoroughly rinsed and drained basmati rice. Allow the rice to toast slightly in the vegetable mixture, absorbing those incredible flavors.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, fire-roasted diced tomatoes (including the juice from the can), tomato paste, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer. Allow the rice to absorb the flavors, and cook until it's tender. This usually takes about 18-20 minutes.
- Once the rice is cooked, stir in the sausage and add the cooked shrimp. Make sure everything is well combined.
- Sprinkle chopped green onions and or fresh parsley over the top for a burst of freshness and color.
- Serve the Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice hot, right from the skillet.
Notes
- Adjust the Creole seasoning to your spice preference. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more.
- Ensure the rice is thoroughly rinsed and drained to prevent it from being too sticky.
- Feel free to customize with additional vegetables like bell peppers, okra, or even some diced tomatoes for extra freshness.
Nutrition Information
Yield 4 Serving Size 1Amount Per Serving Calories 505Total Fat 36gSaturated Fat 10gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 22gCholesterol 55mgSodium 1456mgCarbohydrates 30gFiber 4gSugar 7gProtein 18g
Nutrition data was provided and calculated by Nutritionix, and should only be used as a general guideline. This information is provided as a courtesy and there is no guarantee that the information will be completely accurate.
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