Welcome to this delightful Drunken Shrimp Recipe guide, a dish inspired by the rich Italian culinary tradition with a modern twist. Whether you’re an avid seafood lover or simply looking for a quick and flavorful dinner option, this drunken shrimp recipe is sure to impress. The combination of wine, garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs creates a symphony of flavors that perfectly complements the succulent shrimp. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and you’ve got an instant hit!
Introduction to Drunken Shrimp
This drunken shrimp recipe is a beloved Italian-American dish known for its simplicity and bold flavors. The “drunken” element traditionally comes from cooking the shrimp in wine, which imparts a slightly tangy and aromatic flavor to the dish. Despite reducing the wine content in this version, the shrimp still retain that unique punch, making this recipe a must-try for fans of seafood and Italian cuisine alike. If you’re looking for an easy-to-make, restaurant-quality dish at home, this drunken shrimp is a perfect choice.
Check out our related recipes for seafood enthusiasts like Grilled Shrimp Scampi or Lemon Garlic Shrimp.
Ingredients for Drunken Shrimp
- 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp anchovy paste (adds depth but can be omitted for vegetarians)
- 1 lb peeled and deveined large or jumbo shrimp
- 6 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Fresh pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of white wine (optional, for a stronger flavor)
- 1 cup clam juice (can be substituted with chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons of capers, rinsed
- Juice from one lemon
- Generous handful of chopped parsley
Optional Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with more olive oil.
- For a gluten-free option, serve with gluten-free bread or rice.
How to Make Drunken Shrimp – Step by Step
Step 1: Prep the Skillet
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter melts and starts to sizzle, add the chopped garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, just until the garlic turns golden and fragrant.
Step 2: Create the Sauce
Pour in the white wine, clam juice, and lemon juice. Add the anchovy paste, capers, and a generous sprinkle of freshly ground pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet, making sure they are evenly coated in the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and are just opaque. Be careful not to overcook—overcooked shrimp become tough and lose their delicate texture.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the shrimp hot with the sauce and some crusty bread to soak up the juices.
Helpful Tips for Drunken Shrimp
- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will yield the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them properly and pat dry before cooking.
- Don’t Skip the Capers: Capers add a briny tang that enhances the overall flavor. Rinse them to reduce excess saltiness.
- Add Extra Garlic: If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two for a stronger aroma.
- Wine Alternatives: If you prefer not to use wine, try substituting it with chicken broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar.
Cooking Tips for the Best Drunken Shrimp
- Perfect Sear on Shrimp: Preheat the skillet before adding shrimp to achieve a nice sear, locking in the juices.
- Avoid Overcooking: Shrimp cook quickly—usually in just 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pan: A heavier pan ensures even heat distribution and prevents the garlic from burning.
Serving Suggestions for Drunken Shrimp
Pair this drunken shrimp with:
- Crusty Bread: The perfect companion for soaking up the sauce.
- Rice or Risotto: The creamy texture of risotto complements the tangy shrimp.
- A Light Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- A Glass of Chardonnay: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with this dish.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 175 kcal
- Protein: 22.5g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 10g
- Vitamins: High in Vitamin D and Omega-3 fatty acids.
Storage and Leftovers for Drunken Shrimp
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover drunken shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of clam juice or broth to keep them moist.
- Freezing: This dish is not ideal for freezing as shrimp tend to become rubbery when thawed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Drunken Shrimp
- Can I use another type of seafood? Yes, scallops or mussels work well as substitutes in this dish.
- What can I serve as a gluten-free alternative? Serve the shrimp over a bed of rice or gluten-free pasta.
- Can I omit the wine? Yes, you can replace the wine with chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice.
- What other herbs can I use? Basil or cilantro can be used for a fresh twist.
Related Recipes for Drunken Shrimp Lovers
- Grilled Shrimp Scampi with Garlic: A zesty take on a classic dish.
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
: A tangy pasta dish perfect for seafood lovers.
Conclusion
This drunken shrimp recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that will impress both family and guests alike. Give it a try and let us know what you think! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and pairings, and don’t forget to share your own variations in the comments below. Happy cooking! 🦐🍋
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Drunken Shrimp Recipe – Easy, Flavorful, and Quick Dinner
Description
Welcome to this delightful Drunken Shrimp Recipe guide, a dish inspired by the rich Italian culinary tradition with a modern twist. Whether you’re an avid seafood lover or simply looking for a quick and flavorful dinner option, this drunken shrimp recipe is sure to impress. The combination of wine, garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs creates a symphony of flavors that perfectly complements the succulent shrimp. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and you’ve got an instant hit!
Ingredients
- 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp anchovy paste (adds depth but can be omitted for vegetarians)
- 1 lb peeled and deveined large or jumbo shrimp
- 6 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Fresh pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of white wine (optional, for a stronger flavor)
- 1 cup clam juice (can be substituted with chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons of capers, rinsed
- Juice from one lemon
- Generous handful of chopped parsley
Optional Substitutions:
- For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with more olive oil.
- For a gluten-free option, serve with gluten-free bread or rice.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Skillet
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter melts and starts to sizzle, add the chopped garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes, just until the garlic turns golden and fragrant.
Step 2: Create the Sauce
Pour in the white wine, clam juice, and lemon juice. Add the anchovy paste, capers, and a generous sprinkle of freshly ground pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet, making sure they are evenly coated in the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and are just opaque. Be careful not to overcook—overcooked shrimp become tough and lose their delicate texture.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the shrimp hot with the sauce and some crusty bread to soak up the juices.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will yield the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them properly and pat dry before cooking.
- Don’t Skip the Capers: Capers add a briny tang that enhances the overall flavor. Rinse them to reduce excess saltiness.
- Add Extra Garlic: If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two for a stronger aroma.
- Wine Alternatives: If you prefer not to use wine, try substituting it with chicken broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar.
