Cajun Shrimp and Beans

Cajun Shrimp and Beans is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings the essence of Cajun cooking right to your kitchen. Combining succulent shrimp with tender cannellini beans and a medley of aromatic vegetables, it simmers in a rich, spiced broth that will warm you up and satisfy your hunger. This dish comes together quickly and packs a nutritional punch with plenty of protein and fiber, making it a perfect choice for any night of the week.

I first made this recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted something cozy yet exciting. It quickly became a family favorite because the shrimp have just the right amount of heat, and the beans make it feel substantial. We now ask for it regularly at dinner parties.

Ingredients

• Chili powder: helps build the Cajun spice backbone, choose a fresh jar for maximum flavor
• Garlic powder: adds a mellow garlic undertone, ideal if you want it less intense than fresh garlic
• Smoked paprika: brings depth and a subtle smokiness, Spanish smoked paprika works beautifully here
• Calabrian chili paste: offers both heat and a fruity spice, check specialty markets for this ingredient
• Olive oil: for sautéing, extra virgin helps add richness
• Colossal shrimp: peeled and deveined, a quality shrimp will have firm texture and sweet flavor
• Turkey bacon: adds smoky richness with less fat than pork bacon, diced small for even cooking
• Celery: gives a slight bitterness and crunch, pick crisp stalks
• Yellow onion: provides sweetness and body, look for firm onions without sprouting
• Carrot: adds natural sweetness and color, fresh and firm is best
• Garlic cloves: minced fresh to boost aroma and flavor
• Low-sodium chicken stock: serves as the stew base, homemade or store-bought works well
• Golden raisins: for a hint of sweetness balancing the spice, plump and golden ones are best
• Cannellini beans: are creamy and absorb the flavors beautifully, rinse canned beans to reduce sodium
• Fresh parsley: chopped to brighten the dish at the end
• Lemon wedges: for garnish, adds a fresh burst and balances the richness
• Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper: to season to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Shrimp:

Toss together chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, Calabrian chili paste, and olive oil in a bowl. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp then coat evenly with the mixture. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot then add shrimp. Cook for about four to five minutes until shrimp turn pink and edges are slightly blackened. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Cook the Turkey Bacon:

Add the diced turkey bacon to the same skillet. Cook until pieces are crispy and the fat has rendered out. This renders flavor into the pan for the next ingredients.

Build the Vegetable Base:

Add the diced celery, yellow onion, and sliced carrot to the skillet with the rendered fat. Sauté gently over medium heat until the vegetables are soft but not browned, about nine to ten minutes. This slow cooking deepens their sweetness.

Add Garlic and Liquids:

Stir the minced garlic into the vegetables and cook for about thirty seconds until fragrant but not burnt. Pour in the chicken stock along with the golden raisins. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Bring the liquid to a boil.

Simmer the Beans and Broth:

Stir in the drained and rinsed cannellini beans. Let everything simmer uncovered for about twenty to twenty-five minutes until the vegetables are tender and the broth thickens to a stew-like consistency. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Finish and Serve:

Arrange the cooked shrimp on top of the bean mixture in the skillet. Sprinkle chopped parsley over everything. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over your serving for a bright finish.

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My favorite ingredient has to be the Calabrian chili paste. It adds a complex heat that lingers, different from basic hot sauce or chili flakes. One memorable dinner had a surprise visitor try it and they immediately asked for the recipe. It’s truly the star that brings everything to life.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight. Reheat gently on the stove to keep the shrimp tender without overcooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap turkey bacon with smoked pork bacon for a richer taste. If you cannot find Calabrian chili paste, a mix of crushed red pepper flakes and a touch of tomato paste works as a substitute, though the flavor won’t be as complex.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread to soak up the rich broth or alongside fluffy white rice for a heartier meal. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness nicely.

Cultural Context

This recipe is inspired by Cajun cuisine from Louisiana, which is known for bold spices and comforting dishes made with whatever is on hand. The use of beans and shrimp reflects classic regional ingredients and the tradition of one-pot cooking.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of shrimp works best for this dish?

Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are ideal to ensure even cooking and a succulent texture.

→ Can I substitute turkey bacon with another ingredient?

Yes, smoked sausage or pancetta can provide similar smoky richness and texture.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Reduce chili powder and Calabrian chili paste to lessen heat, or add more for a spicier kick.

→ Why are golden raisins included in the dish?

They add a subtle sweetness that balances the spices and richness of the broth.

→ What’s the best way to serve this dish?

Serve warm with crusty bread or steamed rice to soak up the flavorful broth.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made in advance and reheated gently to maintain texture and flavor.