Prawn Creole Recipe
Introduction
If you’re craving a dish that’s bold, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes, this Prawn Creole Recipe is your answer! Bursting with juicy prawns, a rich tomato-based sauce, and a kick of Creole spices, this dish is a quick and delicious way to bring a taste of Louisiana to your table.
Did you know that Creole cuisine is a fusion of French, Spanish, African, and Native American influences? That’s why every bite of this dish is packed with layers of flavor—sweet, spicy, and savory. Unlike its close cousin, Jambalaya, which is rice-based, Prawn Creole lets the seafood shine in a luscious sauce perfect over steamed rice or crusty bread.
This recipe is family-friendly, budget-friendly, and foolproof—even if you’re not a seasoned cook. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, this dish will impress. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
What is Prawn Creole?
Have you ever wondered why it’s called Prawn Creole and not just “spicy shrimp stew”? Well, the name comes from the Creole culture of Louisiana, where tomatoes, bell peppers, and a mix of spices create magic in the kitchen. Some say the secret is in the “holy trinity” of Creole cooking—onions, celery, and bell peppers—which form the base of this dish.
And let’s be real—the way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach, and this dish will win over even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a date night or a family dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, grab your apron, and let’s make some flavor-packed Prawn Creole!
Why You’ll Love This Prawn Creole Recipe
✅ Bold & Flavorful – The combination of Creole seasoning, garlic, and tomatoes creates a sauce so good that you’ll want to lick the plate clean.
✅ Budget-Friendly – Skip the expensive restaurant version—this homemade dish costs half the price and tastes even better.
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
✅ Versatile – Serve it over rice, with crusty bread, or even with pasta for a twist!
If you love Cajun Shrimp Pasta, you’ll adore this dish—it’s got the same bold flavors but with a lighter, saucy twist. Ready to cook? Let’s go!
How to Make Prawn Creole
Quick Overview
✔ Prep Time: 10 mins
✔ Cook Time: 20 mins
✔ Total Time: 30 mins
✔ Servings: 4
✔ Difficulty: Easy
This dish comes together fast, with minimal prep and maximum flavor. The key? A perfectly balanced sauce that coats the prawns beautifully.
Key Ingredients for Prawn Creole
- 1 lb (450g) large prawns, peeled & deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
(See ingredient photo below for reference.)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté the Holy Trinity – Heat oil in a large skillet. Add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for 5 mins until soft.
2️⃣ Add Garlic & Spices – Stir in garlic, paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3️⃣ Simmer the Sauce – Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and bay leaf. Let it simmer for **10 minutes to thicken.
4️⃣ Cook the Prawns – Add the prawns and cook for 3-4 mins until pink and tender.
5️⃣ Garnish & Serve – Remove the bay leaf, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot!
What to Serve with Prawn Creole
🍚 Steamed Rice – The classic choice to soak up the sauce.
🍞 Crusty Bread – Perfect for dipping into the rich Creole sauce.
🥗 Green Salad – A fresh side to balance the bold flavors.
🍹 Citrusy White Wine or Iced Tea – Pair with the spicy kick wonderfully.
Top Tips for Perfecting Prawn Creole
🔥 Spice Control – Love heat? Add extra cayenne. Prefer mild? Reduce it.
🦐 Fresh vs. Frozen Prawns – Fresh is best, but thawed frozen prawns work too.
⏳ Don’t Overcook Prawns – They turn rubbery if cooked too long—just 3-4 mins is enough!
🧂 Taste & Adjust – Always check seasoning before serving.
Storing and Reheating Tips
❄ Fridge Storage – Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
🔥 Reheating – Warm in a skillet over low heat to prevent prawns from toughening.
🧊 Freezing – Freeze (without prawns) for up to 1 month. Add fresh prawns when reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Prawn Creole Recipe is a quick, flavorful, and foolproof dish that’ll become a weeknight favorite. Whether you’re new to Creole cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste in just 30 minutes.
Hungry yet? Grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! 🍤🔥
Loved this recipe? Try our San Giorgio Lasagna next!
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