Blackened Shrimp from Aunt Catfish's on the River features jumbo shrimp seasoned with a bold blend of Cajun spices, seared to a smoky perfection, and served sizzling over a bed of fluffy rice, delivering a flavorful and visually appealing Southern classic.
Equipments
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs
- Cast-iron skillet
- Stove or cooktop
- Rice cooker or pot with lid
- Serving platter or plate
- Serving spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
When preparing Blackened Shrimp from Aunt Catfish's on the River, it is essential to use jumbo shrimp that are peeled and deveined to ensure a tender and easy-to-eat dish. The Cajun seasoning blend, including paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper, is crucial for achieving the signature smoky and bold flavor. Using a cast-iron skillet helps create the perfect sear and blackened crust on the shrimp, enhancing the dish's texture and visual appeal. Unsalted butter and olive oil are combined to provide richness and prevent sticking during cooking. Your copycat version of Blackened Shrimp from Aunt Catfish's on the River will taste authentic and vibrant by following these ingredient guidelines carefully.
Instructions
- Use chef’s knife and cutting board to clean, peel, and devein the shrimp if needed.
- In large mixing bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper using measuring spoons.
- Add shrimp to the bowl and toss to thoroughly coat with spice mixture.
- Preheat cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat on stove or cooktop.
- Add butter and olive oil to skillet and let butter melt completely.
- Add seasoned shrimp to skillet in a single layer using tongs.
- Sear shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until blackened and cooked through.
- Use tongs to transfer cooked shrimp to serving platter or plate.
- Prepare white rice in rice cooker or pot with lid as package directs, if not pre-cooked.
- Arrange cooked rice on serving platter or plates with serving spoon.
- Place blackened shrimp over rice.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve immediately while sizzling hot.
Substitution
Blackened Shrimp from Aunt Catfish's on the River copycat menu offers a smoky, spicy flavor profile that you can easily replicate at home. If fresh jumbo shrimp are unavailable, large shrimp can be a suitable substitute without compromising taste. When Cajun seasoning is missing, a mix of paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, thyme, and oregano provides a balanced alternative. Use a cast-iron skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan to achieve the characteristic blackened crust by searing at high heat. Your sizzling shrimp served over fluffy white rice will capture the essence of this Southern classic.
Tips
Ensure shrimp are thoroughly peeled and deveined for the best texture and flavor. Coat shrimp evenly with the spice blend in a large mixing bowl to achieve consistent seasoning. Preheat the cast-iron skillet properly before adding butter and olive oil to get that signature blackened sear without burning. Cook your shrimp in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding to allow even cooking and a smoky crust, then serve immediately over freshly cooked rice for the ideal presentation and taste.
Nutritions
Blackened Shrimp from Aunt Catfish's on the River offers a protein-rich meal with approximately 24 grams of protein per 4-ounce serving of shrimp, supporting muscle health and satiety. The Cajun seasoning blend, including paprika and cayenne pepper, adds antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may promote overall wellness. Cooking with olive oil and butter provides healthy fats and fat-soluble vitamins, enhancing nutrient absorption and flavor. You can enjoy this dish as a satisfying low-carb option when paired with cauliflower rice instead of traditional white rice to reduce carbohydrate intake.
Storage
Store any leftover blackened shrimp in an airtight container to maintain its spicy, smoky flavors. Keep the container refrigerated and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness. Your cooked rice should be stored separately in a sealed container to prevent moisture buildup and reheated thoroughly before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap jumbo shrimp for large scallops or firm white fish fillets like catfish to vary the protein while keeping the Cajun spice profile intact. You can toast the Cajun seasoning briefly in the cast-iron skillet before adding shrimp to enhance its aroma and deepen the flavor complexity. For a lighter option, substitute olive oil and butter with avocado oil or coconut oil to alter the fat content and add subtle different notes. Consider serving your blackened shrimp over quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a nutrient-rich, gluten-free alternative that complements the bold spices.
Allergies
Your meal contains jumbo shrimp, which is a common allergen and can trigger severe allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to shellfish. The Cajun seasoning includes spices like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, which may cause mild allergic responses in some people. Cross-reactivity between shellfish and other seafood should also be considered if you have known allergies.
Why this recipe?
The Blackened Shrimp menu at Aunt Catfish's on the River restaurant is loved for its perfectly seasoned shrimp, delivering a bold, smoky flavor with a hint of Cajun spice. The shrimp's tender texture and crispy char create a satisfying contrast that appeals to seafood enthusiasts. Recreating this dish at home allows you to enjoy authentic Southern flavors while controlling the freshness and spice level to suit your taste. Your copycat version can capture the essence of this Lake Oconee favorite, making it a standout meal in your kitchen.