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Spicy Voodoo Shrimp Recipe

4.9 from 116 reviews

Spicy Voodoo Shrimp is a flavorful and bold Cajun-inspired dish featuring succulent shrimp marinated in a blend of spices, then seared and simmered in a rich, smoky, and mildly spicy sauce made with aromatic vegetables, tomato paste, and a touch of hot sauce. Perfect served over rice, grits, or crusty bread, this dish delivers a deliciously spicy and comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 1 small green bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1 celery stalk, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 cup chicken or seafood stock
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish and Serving:

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Lemon wedges
  • Cooked white rice, grits, or crusty bread

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Let it marinate while preparing the sauce to infuse the shrimp with robust flavors.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion, green bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
  3. Build the Sauce: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to deepen its flavor. Add smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, and oregano; mix thoroughly. Pour in chicken or seafood stock and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to deglaze the pan and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Add hot sauce, salt, and black pepper, then simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  4. Cook the Shrimp: In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the marinated shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, ensuring they are cooked just right without becoming tough.
  5. Combine and Finish: Add the cooked shrimp into the simmering sauce. Stir to coat them well and allow them to simmer together for 1 to 2 minutes so the flavors meld perfectly.
  6. Serve: Spoon the spicy voodoo shrimp and sauce over cooked white rice, creamy grits, or crusty bread. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges for a bright, fresh finish.

Notes

  • Adjust the cayenne pepper and hot sauce according to your preferred spice level.
  • Using seafood stock instead of chicken stock enhances the seafood flavor of the dish.
  • For a gluten-free option, ensure Worcestershire sauce used is gluten-free or substitute with coconut aminos.
  • The dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking shrimp.

Keywords: Spicy Voodoo Shrimp, Cajun shrimp, spicy shrimp recipe, shrimp with voodoo sauce, Cajun seafood, easy shrimp dinner