Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice: A Spicy Delight from the Heart of Louisiana
This Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice recipe is a vibrant, flavorful adventure that brings a touch of Louisiana to your dinner table. With a hearty mix of shrimp, rice, and bold Cajun spices, this dish is not just satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual dinner party, it promises to delight anyone who craves a spicy kick in their meal.
Bringing Cajun Flavors to Your Kitchen
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor achieved with the Cajun seasoning. The combination of fresh vegetables and succulent shrimp marinated in spicy seasonings makes every bite a celebration of flavors. It’s a recipe that proves that gourmet-tasting meals don’t require complex preparations.
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Serving: 4 people
- Equipment: Wok or large skillet
Recipe Title: Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked brown or white rice (preferably leftover)
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 tsp each of chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- Fresh black pepper, to taste
- 2 large egg whites, beaten
- 1 large whole egg, beaten
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, diced
- 5 medium scallions, chopped, whites and greens separated
- Oil spray
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, or more to taste
- 4 tsp soy sauce, or more to taste
- 1 tsp Asian fish sauce, or substitute with additional soy sauce
Directions:
- Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine the shrimp with chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat.
- Cook the Eggs: Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Spray with oil and add the beaten eggs. Cook until set, about 1-2 minutes, then remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Increase the heat to high. Add the sesame oil to the wok. Sauté the onion, scallion whites, garlic, and red pepper flakes for 1-2 minutes.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the wok and sauté until they are pink and no longer translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Rice and Seasonings: Add the rice, pressing it down to brown slightly, then stir for 2 minutes. Return the cooked eggs to the wok. Pour in the soy sauce and fish sauce, mixing well.
- Finish with Scallions: Stir in the green parts of the scallions, cook for another minute, and then remove from heat.
Enjoy the Spicy and Savory
This Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients can be transformed into a dish bursting with flavor. It’s a perfect meal for those who love a bit of heat and the savory goodness of shrimp, combined in a one-pot dish that is both filling and delightful. Serve it hot for a meal that is sure to be remembered.
