Shrimp Creole Tropichop from Pollo Tropical features succulent shrimp simmered in a vibrant, spicy tomato creole sauce, served over a bed of seasoned rice and colorful vegetables, delivering a flavorful and visually appealing Caribbean-inspired meal.
Equipments
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Rice cooker or pot (for rice)
- Serving spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion
- 1 bell pepper (red or green)
- 2 celery stalks
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 2 teaspoons creole seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 2 cups long grain rice
- 2 1/4 cups water or chicken broth (for rice)
- 1 cup frozen sweet corn
- 1 cup frozen green peas
- 1 medium carrot
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Fresh shrimp is essential for the best texture and flavor in your Shrimp Creole Tropichop, so try to use peeled and deveined shrimp to save prep time. Using low-sodium chicken broth instead of water for cooking the rice enhances the savory taste without adding excessive salt. Make sure to measure the creole seasoning and cayenne pepper precisely to balance the spiciness and authentic Caribbean flavor. Frozen vegetables like corn and peas are convenient and maintain good texture, but thaw them before adding to avoid excess moisture. Your Shrimp Creole Tropichop copycat dish will closely mimic the vibrant and savory profile of Pollo Tropical's popular menu item when these ingredient tips are followed.
Instructions
- Cook rice in a rice cooker or pot using 2 cups long grain rice and 2 1/4 cups water or chicken broth.
- Dice onion, bell pepper, celery, carrot, and mince garlic.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté onion, bell pepper, celery, and carrot until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce.
- Add creole seasoning, cayenne pepper, paprika, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf.
- Stir in 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth.
- Simmer sauce for 10 minutes.
- Season shrimp with salt and black pepper.
- Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque.
- Remove bay leaf.
- In a saucepan, heat frozen sweet corn and green peas until warmed through.
- Fluff cooked rice.
- In mixing bowls, layer rice, mixed vegetables, and creole shrimp.
- Garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve with lemon wedges.
Substitution
Shrimp Creole Tropichop from Pollo Tropical can be recreated at home by simmering shrimp in a spicy tomato creole sauce with a blend of aromatics and seasonings, served over seasoned rice and mixed vegetables. If fresh shrimp is unavailable, frozen shrimp can be used, but ensure they are fully thawed to cook evenly. You can substitute bell peppers with poblano or Anaheim peppers for a milder heat or a slightly different flavor profile. Low-sodium chicken broth can be replaced with vegetable broth for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option, while adjusting seasoning to maintain balance. When cooking rice, using a rice cooker ensures consistent texture, but a heavy-bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid will work just as well.
Tips
Make sure to peel and devein the shrimp properly to avoid any gritty texture in your Shrimp Creole Tropichop. Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque; overcooking will make them tough and rubbery. When simmering the creole sauce, keep an eye on the heat to prevent burning and to allow the flavors from the spices and tomatoes to meld perfectly. You can enhance your dish by freshly squeezing lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.
Nutritions
Shrimp Creole Tropichop provides a rich source of lean protein from 1 lb of shrimp, essential for muscle repair and satiety. The dish incorporates 2 cups of long grain rice, offering complex carbohydrates for sustained energy alongside fiber from mixed vegetables such as peas, carrots, and corn, which contribute vitamins A, C, and antioxidants. Olive oil adds healthy monounsaturated fats, supporting heart health, while the tomato-based creole sauce includes lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. You benefit from a well-balanced meal that supports nutrition and flavor within a single Caribbean-inspired plate.
Storage
Store Shrimp Creole Tropichop in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. For optimal flavor and texture, consume within 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container with a tight seal. When reheating, warm thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) to ensure food safety for your meal.
Variation or Alternatives
Swap shrimp with firm white fish like cod or tilapia for a milder seafood flavor without sacrificing texture. Use quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of long grain rice to add a healthier, low-carb option. Enhance the creole sauce by incorporating smoked paprika or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for deeper umami notes. You can also roast vegetables instead of sauteing to bring out natural sweetness and add a smoky dimension.
Allergies
Shrimp Creole Tropichop contains shellfish, which is a common allergen and can cause severe reactions in sensitive individuals. Ingredients like garlic, celery, and bell peppers can also trigger allergies or intolerances in some people. It is essential to check all components of the dish and inform your server if you have any food allergies before consuming this meal.
Why this recipe?
Shrimp Creole from Pollo Tropical's Tropichop menu captivates diners with its vibrant blend of spicy tomato sauce, fresh herbs, and tender shrimp, delivering an authentic Creole culinary experience. The dish balances rich, bold flavors with wholesome ingredients, making it a satisfying choice for seafood lovers and fans of Southern cuisine. You'll find recreating this recipe rewarding as it allows control over spice levels and freshness, while capturing the vibrant taste that defines Pollo Tropical's Tropichop offerings. Perfect for those seeking a flavorful yet approachable meal, Shrimp Creole stands out for its combination of tradition and accessibility.