SSI Shrimp Boil
Hello, foodie friends!
If you’re dreaming of a meal that captures the essence of coastal living, look no further than a classic shrimp boil. This iconic Southern dish is perfect for gatherings, weekend cookouts, or simply enjoying a taste of the sea. As your local guide to all things delicious, I’m excited to share a tried-and-true shrimp boil recipe that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. All of our vacation rentals are well outfitted to cook up a fun beachy dinner for a crowd! Let’s dive into the details!
Ingredients
For a shrimp boil that serves about 6-8 people, you’ll need:
2 lbs large shrimp, shell-on, deveined
1 lb small red potatoes, halved or quartered
4 ears of corn, broken into halves or thirds
1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1-inch pieces
1 large onion, quartered
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, halved
2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning (or more to taste)
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Salt, to taste
2 bay leaves
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Butter (optional, for serving)
Cocktail sauce (for dipping)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by prepping your ingredients. Wash the shrimp thoroughly and pat them dry. Cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces, and break the corn into halves or thirds. Slice the sausage, quarter the onion, and mince the garlic.
2. Boil the Potatoes
Fill a large pot with water and add a generous amount of salt, Old Bay seasoning, paprika, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the potatoes and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Add the Corn and Sausage
Add the corn and sausage to the pot. Continue to boil for another 10 minutes, allowing the corn to cook and absorb the flavors from the seasoning.
4. Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the pot and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough if left too long.
5. Drain and Serve
Once the shrimp, corn, potatoes, and sausage are all cooked, carefully drain the contents of the pot using a colander. You can also use a slotted spoon to remove everything if you prefer.
6. Season and Garnish
Transfer the shrimp, potatoes, corn, and sausage to a large serving platter or spread out on a newspaper-covered table for a traditional approach. Squeeze the lemon halves over the top and sprinkle with additional Old Bay seasoning and chopped parsley.
7. Optional Sides
If you like, melt some butter and serve it on the side for dipping. Cocktail sauce is another great addition for those who enjoy a bit of tangy spice with their shrimp.
Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Boil
Adjust the Spices: Feel free to tweak the seasoning to suit your taste. If you prefer a spicier boil, add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest shrimp and vegetables you can find for the best flavor.
Serving Style: For a casual, fun experience, serve the shrimp boil directly on a table covered with newspaper. It’s a great way to enjoy the meal and makes cleanup a breeze.
A shrimp boil is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together over delicious, flavorful food. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or just craving a taste of the coast, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the fun of eating with your hands, and savor every bite of this classic Southern dish. As always, please reach out if you need local recommendations for where to find the best ingredients.
Happy cooking!
XO,
The Hosted Girls