Treebeards Shrimp Étouffée Recipe

If you’re a fan of Cajun cuisine, you’ve likely heard of Treebeards, a beloved restaurant in Houston, Texas, known for its authentic Southern dishes. One of their most iconic recipes is the Shrimp Étouffée—a rich, flavorful dish that brings the essence of New Orleans to your table. Today, we’re sharing a homemade version of the Treebeards Shrimp Étouffée Recipe that’s easy to follow and guaranteed to impress.

Treebeards Shrimp Étouffée Recipe

Author: Top Recipes Made Cooking Method:Stovetop Cooking Cuisine:Cajun/Creole Courses:Main

Difficulty:IntermediatePrep time: 15 minutesCook time: 40 minutesRest time: 5 minutesTotal time:1 hour Servings:6 servingsCalories:350 kcal Best Season:Suitable throughout the year

Description

Étouffée, which means “smothered” in French, is a classic Cajun dish featuring a thick, savory sauce made with a roux, the “holy trinity” of Cajun cooking (onions, bell peppers, and celery), and succulent shrimp. It’s typically served over steamed rice, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.

This Treebeards Shrimp Étouffée Recipe captures the essence of the restaurant’s famous dish. It’s packed with bold flavors, has a velvety texture, and is surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups seafood or chicken stock
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Roux

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux.
3. Continue cooking the roux, stirring frequently, until it turns a rich, peanut butter color (about 10-15 minutes). Be careful not to burn it!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

4. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the roux. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

5. Slowly pour in the seafood or chicken stock, stirring constantly to combine with the roux.
6. Add the diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), and bay leaves. Stir well.
7. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

8. Add the shrimp to the sauce and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

10. Remove the bay leaves and discard.
11. Serve the shrimp étouffée over a bed of steamed white rice.
12. Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Video

Tips for the Perfect Shrimp Étouffée

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will give you the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely before cooking.
  Don’t Rush the Roux: The roux is the foundation of the dish, so take your time to achieve the perfect color and consistency.
  Adjust the Heat: Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper can vary in spiciness. Adjust the amounts to suit your taste.
  Make It Ahead: Étouffée tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.

This Treebeards Shrimp Étouffée Recipe is a celebration of Cajun flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, savory sauce and tender shrimp, it’s a dish that will transport you straight to the heart of New Orleans. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. So, grab your apron and get ready to enjoy a taste of the South in your own kitchen!