Cajun Shrimp and Beans (Printable Version)

A vibrant dish of spiced shrimp, beans, and vegetables simmered to tender perfection.

# Everything You’ll Need:

→ Spices and Seasonings

01 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
02 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
03 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
04 - 1 teaspoon Calabrian chili paste
05 - Kosher salt, to taste
06 - Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

→ Oils and Fats

07 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
08 - 4 slices turkey bacon, cut into small pieces

→ Seafood

09 - 1 pound colossal shrimp (16/20), peeled, deveined, tails removed

→ Vegetables

10 - 2 stalks celery, diced
11 - 1 yellow onion, diced
12 - 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
13 - 4 garlic cloves, minced

→ Liquids

14 - 3 cups low-sodium chicken stock

→ Fruits and Additions

15 - 1/4 cup golden raisins
16 - 1 lemon, sliced into wedges, for garnish

→ Legumes

17 - 1 (29-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

→ Herbs

18 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

# Steps to Cook:

01 - In a bowl, whisk together chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Calabrian chili paste. Gradually add olive oil, whisking until well combined. Toss shrimp in the mixture to coat evenly.
02 - Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook 4 to 5 minutes until opaque and slightly blackened. Remove shrimp and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, add turkey bacon pieces and cook until crispy and fat is rendered. Add diced celery, onion, and carrot and sauté until vegetables soften, about 9 to 10 minutes.
04 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
05 - Pour in chicken stock and add golden raisins. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then stir in cannellini beans. Simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until vegetables are tender and broth thickens.
06 - Nestle cooked shrimp into the bean mixture. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Use a large cast iron skillet for best heat retention and even cooking.