Spicy Drunken Shrimp

Shrimp lovers, rejoice! This Spicy Drunken Shrimp recipe is not only a quick and easy dish but also an explosion of flavors that will elevate any meal. In just 20 minutes, you can serve up succulent shrimp simmered in a delectable sauce made from vodka, garlic, and chili flakes. Perfect for date nights, casual dinners, or festive gatherings, this dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping and impresses every guest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, vodka, and chili flakes creates an addictive sauce that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or served as an appetizer at parties.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses common kitchen staples allowing for easy preparation without hassle.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and enticing aroma make it a showstopper at any dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Cooking Spicy Drunken Shrimp requires minimal tools but ensures maximum flavor. Here’s what you need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and helps develop rich flavors while sautéing.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for scraping up brown bits from the pan, enhancing the sauce’s depth.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 2 tsp black pepper (divided)

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp cold unsalted butter (divided)
• 1 shallot (finely chopped)
• 6 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp chili flakes
• ½ cup vodka
• ¾ cup fish broth
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (more to taste)
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley

How to Make Spicy Drunken Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done.
2. In a large bowl, combine shrimp with sweet paprika, garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Toss well to coat.
3. Set aside while preparing other ingredients. If desired, marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or up to 8 hours.

Step 2: Chop Aromatics

1. Mince the garlic cloves.
2. Finely chop the shallot.
3. Chop the parsley for garnish.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

1. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp in a single layer to the skillet and sear for 1 minute on each side until they turn pink.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Cook Aromatics

1. Lower heat to medium.
2. Add minced garlic and chopped shallot to the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Stir in chili flakes along with remaining salt and black pepper.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

1. Deglaze the skillet by pouring in vodka; allow it to simmer for about 3 minutes while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
2. Pour in fish broth and bring mixture to a boil.
3. Gradually add remaining butter (3 tablespoons), one piece at a time, stirring until fully melted and incorporated into a smooth sauce.

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. Add cooked shrimp back into the skillet; cook for an additional minute until heated through.
2. Finish off with fresh lemon juice, extra black pepper if desired, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously spicy journey with this incredible Spicy Drunken Shrimp recipe at your next gathering!

How to Serve Spicy Drunken Shrimp

Spicy Drunken Shrimp is a delightful dish that offers a burst of flavors. The combination of shrimp simmered in vodka, garlic, and chili flakes makes it perfect for various serving occasions.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: Serve warm, allowing guests to dip into the rich sauce.
• Garlic Bread: Adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the shrimp.

Over Pasta

• Linguine: Toss the shrimp with linguine to create a satisfying meal.
• Spaghetti: A classic pairing, spaghetti absorbs the delicious sauce beautifully.

As an Appetizer

• Shrimp Cocktail Style: Serve in small cups or shot glasses for a fun presentation.
• Skewers: Thread shrimp onto skewers for easy handling at parties.

With Rice

• White Rice: Simple and effective, white rice balances the spiciness of the dish.
• Coconut Rice: Adds a hint of sweetness that pairs well with the spicy flavors.

How to Perfect Spicy Drunken Shrimp

To achieve the best Spicy Drunken Shrimp, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp enhances flavor and texture compared to frozen ones.
• Properly Season: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they elevate the overall taste.
• Deglaze Well: Make sure to scrape up all the brown bits from the skillet; they add depth to your sauce.
• Adjust Spice Level: Modify chili flakes based on your heat preference for an optimal experience.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoying it fresh ensures that the shrimp are tender and juicy.
• Garnish Generously: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also brightens up the dish’s flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Drunken Shrimp

Pairing side dishes with Spicy Drunken Shrimp can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and flavorful, they provide a comforting balance to spicy shrimp.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Offers a healthy crunch that complements the soft texture of shrimp.
3. Caesar Salad: A classic salad that adds freshness and crispness to your plate.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs well with spicy flavors, making it a great addition.
5. Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb alternative that soaks up sauce beautifully while adding nutrition.
6. Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich shrimp dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spicy Drunken Shrimp, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinating step: Marinating the shrimp enhances flavor. Even a quick 30-minute soak can make a difference.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking can make it tough. Aim for just 1 minute per side when searing.
• Neglecting to deglaze the skillet: This step adds depth to your sauce. Scrape up those tasty brown bits before adding liquids.
• Using insufficient heat: Medium-high heat is crucial for a good sear. Too low will steam the shrimp instead of browning them.
• Not having bread on hand: This dish’s sauce is irresistible! Make sure to have some crusty bread ready for dipping.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing Spicy Drunken Shrimp

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Spicy Drunken Shrimp

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly heated.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for more information about Spicy Drunken Shrimp? Here are some common questions:

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them completely before marinating and cooking.

How spicy is Spicy Drunken Shrimp?

The spiciness comes from chili flakes. You can adjust the amount according to your taste preference.

What dishes pair well with Spicy Drunken Shrimp?

Serve with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Drunken Shrimp is not just quick and easy but also packed with bold flavors that will impress anyone at your dinner table. With options to customize ingredients and serve alongside various sides, this recipe is versatile enough for any occasion. Don’t hesitate; give it a try!