Description
Mediterranean magic meets succulent shrimp in this creamy shrimp delight recipe, blending rich flavors with elegant simplicity. Seafood enthusiasts will savor each luxurious bite of this irresistible coastal-inspired dish that promises pure culinary pleasure.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Dairy Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons (60 grams) unsalted butter
- ½ cup (120 milliliters) whole milk
- ½ cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
Seasonings and Thickeners:
- 2 tablespoons (15 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon white pepper
- ¼ cup (60 milliliters) sherry wine
Instructions
- Meticulously clean the shrimp by removing tails, heads, and veins, then thoroughly pat dry with paper towels to eliminate excess moisture.
- Create a golden roux in a skillet by melting butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour and spices until a smooth, fragrant paste forms.
- Gradually stream milk and cream into the roux, whisking vigorously to prevent lumps and create a silky, uniform sauce base.
- Introduce sherry to the sauce, stirring continuously to integrate the flavor and maintain a consistent texture.
- Reduce heat to low, allowing the sauce to simmer gently and thicken, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
- In a separate pan, quickly sear shrimp in melted butter, cooking just until they begin to transform from translucent to pink, ensuring they remain tender.
- Gently fold the seared shrimp and any residual butter into the creamy sauce, letting them finish cooking and absorb the rich, complex flavors.
- Simmer the combined mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the shrimp to become perfectly cooked and the sauce to reach an ideal consistency.
Notes
- Shrimp Selection Matters: Choose fresh, high-quality medium to large shrimp for the best texture and flavor in this creamy dish.
- Precision in Roux-Making: Whisking continuously prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, velvety sauce base that’s crucial for the recipe’s success.
- Temperature Control is Key: Maintain a gentle medium heat to prevent scorching the sauce and to cook the shrimp perfectly without becoming rubbery.
- Sherry Adds Depth: The sherry provides a subtle, sophisticated flavor that elevates the entire dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
- Quick Cooking Technique: Sauté shrimp briefly to maintain their tender, juicy texture, avoiding overcooking which can make them tough and chewy.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with crusty bread or over rice to soak up the luxurious, creamy sauce and create a complete, satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 150mg