Description
Welcome to the delightful world of “Smoky Shrimp and Okra Delight,” a recipe that marries the freshness of okra with the rich taste of shrimp, all enveloped in a smoky, spicy sauce. This dish not only promises a burst of Cajun flavors but also a comforting experience perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal. Let’s explore how you can bring this savory masterpiece to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb. fresh-cut okra, sliced into desired pieces
- 5 vine tomatoes or Roma tomatoes; 2 extra-large tomatoes can be substituted
- 2 lbs. colossal raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp. garlic paste or 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup roughly chopped onions
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- ½ tsp. coarse black pepper
- 2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp. tomato paste
- 2 tbsp. Cajun seasoning
- 2 cups water or broth
- 1 tsp. ground ginger
- 1 tsp. cumin
- 1 tsp. red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- 1 tsp. dried parsley
- 3 bay leaves
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Slice the okra into bite-size pieces, wash, drain, and set aside. Cut the tomatoes into small pieces. Peel and devein the shrimp. Prepare the garlic paste or mince the garlic cloves, and roughly chop the onions.
- Cook Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 6 minutes until lightly pink. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Cook Okra: In the same saucepan, add the sliced okra and chopped onions. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the chopped tomatoes to the saucepan. Stir in the tomato paste, Cajun seasoning, garlic, ground ginger, cumin, red pepper flakes, basil, parsley, and water or broth. Drop in the bay leaves, then stir to combine all ingredients well.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 45 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Combine and Final Cook: Add the previously cooked shrimp back into the saucepan. Continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes. Ensure everything is heated through and flavors meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes