Shrimp and Rice : This recipe is a one-pan wonder that brings bold flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. Juicy, succulent shrimp are perfectly seasoned and sautéed to golden perfection, then served into a bed of fluffy, fragrant rice.
Why Shrimp Rice Is a Must-Try Dish
Shrimp rice is a fan favorite for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: It takes under 30 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy nights.
- Nutrient-Rich: Shrimp is a great source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals like zinc and iodine. Pairing it with rice creates a balanced meal.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite vegetables, spices, or even try different types of rice, like jasmine or basmati, to create a unique dish.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of plump shrimp with well-seasoned, fluffy rice creates a mouthwatering meal that everyone will enjoy.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Shrimp Rice
- Get the Right Texture: Rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch, which prevents it from becoming too sticky.
- Shrimp Size Matters: Large or jumbo shrimp work best for this dish because they maintain their texture during cooking and provide a satisfying bite.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly—keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t become rubbery. They are done when they turn pink and form a “C” shape.
- Use Leftover Rice: If you have leftover rice from another meal, use it in this recipe to save time and reduce food waste.
Variations of Shrimp Rice
One of the best things about shrimp rice is how easily it can be adapted to suit different tastes. Here are a few variations you can try:
Spicy Shrimp Rice
- Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of red pepper flakes when cooking the shrimp for a fiery kick.
- Use Cajun or Creole seasoning for a Southern-inspired twist.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice
- Swap olive oil for a generous amount of butter and double the garlic for a rich, buttery flavor.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten the dish.
Asian-Inspired Shrimp Fried Rice
- Use day-old rice for a classic fried rice texture.
- Stir in a few tablespoons of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions.
- Toss in some scrambled eggs and chopped carrots for a full fried rice experience.
Mediterranean Shrimp Rice
- Use olive oil, cherry tomatoes, and Kalamata olives.
- Add a sprinkle of feta cheese and fresh dill before serving for a fresh Mediterranean flavor.
How to Serve Shrimp Rice
Shrimp rice is a complete dish on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of side dishes to make it even more delightful:
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the rich flavors of the shrimp rice.
- Grilled Vegetables: Serve with grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a colorful plate.
- Crusty Bread: A piece of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce or juices from the shrimp.
Storing and Reheating Shrimp Rice
Storing: Store leftover shrimp rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the shrimp is fully cooled before storing to prevent condensation and soggy rice.
Freezing: To freeze, transfer the shrimp rice to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
Recipe FAQs
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice is a great alternative that adds extra fiber and a slightly nutty flavor. Keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
Can I Make Shrimp Rice in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can! Use the sauté function to cook the shrimp and vegetables, then add the rice and broth. Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes and let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing the remaining pressure.
What Vegetables Can I Add to Shrimp Rice?
Feel free to add your favorite veggies like carrots, green beans, or even spinach. Fresh or frozen vegetables both work well, making it easy to adapt based on what you have on hand.
How Do I Prevent Shrimp from Becoming Rubbery?
To avoid overcooking, add the shrimp towards the end of the cooking process. Cook just until they turn pink, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes depending on the size.
What Type of Shrimp Is Best for This Recipe?
Large or jumbo shrimp with tails removed are ideal for shrimp rice recipes. They are easy to work with and give the dish a great texture. Opt for wild-caught shrimp if possible for better flavor and sustainability.
Shrimp and Rice
Shrimp and Rice : This recipe is a one-pan wonder that brings bold flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. Juicy, succulent shrimp are perfectly seasoned and sautéed to golden perfection, then served into a bed of fluffy, fragrant rice.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups jasmine rice
- 5 Tbsp butter, divided into 1/2-Tbsp pieces
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 Tbsp garlic, minced
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp lemon zest (from 1 medium lemon)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, finely shredded
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley, minced
Instructions
- Rinse 1 1/2 cups of jasmine rice in a fine sieve under cold water until it runs nearly clear. Drain well and set aside.
- Melt 1 Tbsp butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup finely chopped onion and cook for about 4 minutes until softened.
- Add 1 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in 2 1/2 cups chicken broth, 2 tsp lemon zest, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then add the rinsed rice and stir briefly.
- Cover and reduce the heat to low.
- Let it simmer for 13 minutes. While it’s simmering, peel and devein the shrimp.
- After 13 minutes, arrange 1 lb of shrimp evenly over the rice, drizzle with 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice, and add 4 Tbsp butter in small dots over the top.
- Cover again and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the shrimp start to turn pink.
- Remove the pot from heat. Toss in 1/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese and 2 Tbsp minced parsley.
- Let the pot rest, covered, for a few minutes until the shrimp finish cooking through with the residual heat.
Nutrition Information
Yield
5Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 244Total Fat 5gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 2gCholesterol 200mgSodium 1142mgCarbohydrates 21gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 27g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts on Shrimp Rice
Shrimp rice is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Its versatility allows you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients, ensuring that you’ll never get bored. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a foolproof way to enjoy a delicious meal. So, grab some shrimp and rice, and get ready to impress yourself and others with this delightful dish! Happy cooking!
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