Description
Creamy Tucson Shrimp is a flavorful and quick skillet dish featuring tender shrimp simmered in a spiced creamy sauce with hints of lime and fresh cilantro. Perfect for a weeknight meal, this recipe combines southwestern spices with a luscious cream base for a rich and satisfying seafood entrée.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Protein
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables and Fresh Ingredients
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime zest (optional, for extra lime flavor)
Spices and Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquids and Fats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Heat the oil and sauté onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent, which forms the flavor base for the sauce.
- Add garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Toast the spices: Stir in ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and ground coriander. Toast the spices in the skillet for 1-2 minutes to release their aromas and deepen flavor.
- Add and simmer cream and broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stir well, and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turns pink and is cooked through.
- Season the dish: Stir in lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and optional lime zest. Serve the creamy Tucson shrimp over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk.
- Adjust the chili powder based on your desired heat level.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- This dish pairs well with steamed white rice or garlic butter noodles.
