Shrimp Sauce Piquante Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide

There’s something undeniably captivating about the bold, tangy flavors of a classic Southern dish like Shrimp Sauce Piquante. This iconic Creole recipe combines succulent shrimp with a spicy, tomato-based sauce that’s rich with Cajun flair.

Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just diving into the world of Southern cuisine, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. The vibrant blend of peppers, onions, and spices melds beautifully with the shrimp, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

Perfect served over fluffy white rice or creamy grits, shrimp sauce piquante brings a taste of Louisiana straight to your table.

In this post, I’ll walk you through the ingredients, equipment, and step-by-step instructions to master this flavorful dish. Plus, I’ll share tips, variations, and serving suggestions so you can customize it to your taste.

Ready to spice up your dinner routine? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Shrimp Sauce Piquante recipe captures the essence of Creole cooking with its bold, spicy, and deeply satisfying flavors. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s surprisingly easy to make but tastes like it came from a high-end New Orleans kitchen.

The sauce is thick and rich, with a perfect balance of heat and tanginess that complements the delicate sweetness of the shrimp.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also versatile. You can adjust the spice level to suit your preferences, make it ahead for a quick weeknight meal, or impress guests with an authentic Southern feast.

Plus, it’s gluten-free and packed with protein, making it a wholesome choice for your family.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Cooked white rice or grits, for serving

Equipment

• Large sauté pan or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowls
• Lid for the pan (optional but helpful)
• Serving dishes

Instructions

1. Prepare the shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water, peel and devein if necessary, then pat dry with paper towels. Set aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large sauté pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add tomato ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the tomato paste. Mix well to combine, cooking for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Add chicken broth and bay leaves: Pour in the chicken broth, stir well, and add the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly.
6. Add shrimp: Remove the lid and add the shrimp to the sauce. Cook uncovered for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook.
7. Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or cayenne for more heat if desired. Remove the bay leaves.
8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top and serve hot over cooked white rice or creamy grits.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra smoky flavor, try using smoked sausage or andouille in the sauce along with the shrimp.”

Here are some ways to customize your shrimp sauce piquante:

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer milder dishes, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For a spicy kick, add hot sauce or extra cayenne.
• Vegetarian version: Substitute shrimp with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Make it a stew: Add okra for a traditional Southern touch and a slightly thickened texture.
• Use fresh herbs: Swap dried thyme and oregano for fresh herbs for a brighter flavor.
• Serve over alternatives: Try this sauce over cauliflower rice, quinoa, or even pasta for a different twist.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Shrimp Sauce Piquante is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. The most classic and authentic way is over steaming white rice, which soaks up the spicy tomato sauce beautifully.

For a Southern-inspired meal, serve it alongside creamy grits or even cheesy polenta. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables like green beans or collard greens can add a refreshing contrast.

Don’t forget a crusty French bread to mop up any leftover sauce!

If you’re hosting a dinner, pair this dish with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer to balance the heat and richness.

Conclusion

Making shrimp sauce piquante at home is a fantastic way to bring the bold flavors of Creole cuisine right to your dining table. This recipe balances spicy, savory, and tangy notes perfectly, making it a crowd-pleaser for both family dinners and special occasions.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can craft a restaurant-quality dish that’s hearty and satisfying.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with some of the variations, shrimp sauce piquante offers endless delicious possibilities. Don’t forget to explore other Southern-inspired recipes like Cajun Chicken Alfredo, Classic Jambalaya, and Creole Red Beans and Rice for more authentic flavors to complement your meal.

Happy cooking!

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