Hey there, foodie friends! If you’ve been following me on “Life with Jeviko” (don’t forget to bookmark jeviko.com for easy access), you know how much I adore fusion meals that pack a punch of flavor. Today, I’m ecstatic to share with you a recipe that combines the earthiness of steak with the sea-kissed tenderness of shrimp—all dressed up in Cajun goodness. Trust me, this Cajun Shrimp and Steak is what dinner dreams are made of!
Why Cajun seasoning?
Cajun seasoning brings together a smorgasbord of spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne. It’s a one-stop-shop for taste!
Can I use another cut of beef?
Absolutely! Though flank steak is lean and cooks fast, you could opt for sirloin or rib-eye for a richer experience.
Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp?
Fresh is always best, but frozen works too. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
How do I serve it?
While I love this over rice or pasta, you can serve it over quinoa or with a side of veggies for a low-carb option.
Leftovers?
Yep, it reheats well. Just use a low heat setting to ensure the shrimp and steak don’t turn rubbery.
Alright, now that we’ve got the basics covered, let’s dive into some bite-sized tips to ensure your Cajun Shrimp & Steak is nothing short of fabulous.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
🍤 What You’ll Need:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced (around 16 ounces)
- 1 tablespoon of your best Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 cup olive oil (Yes, quality matters!)
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
- 2 bell peppers of any color, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced like there’s no tomorrow
- 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp (about 16 ounces)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (better if it’s homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- A dash of salt and pepper, adjusted to your liking
👩🍳 Let’s Get Cooking:
- Marinate That Steak!: First things first, let’s show that steak some love! Toss the thinly sliced flank steak with the Cajun seasoning and a tablespoon of olive oil. This not only infuses the meat with zesty flavors but also ensures it cooks to perfection.
- Sear, Baby, Sear: Pour the remaining olive oil into a large skillet and set the flame to medium-high heat. Introduce your steak to the sizzling skillet and brown it for about 5 minutes on each side. This step locks in all the juicy flavors. Once done, set the steak aside.
- Veggie Time: In the same skillet, add your chopped onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Cook these until they turn soft and aromatic—usually takes around 5 minutes. These veggies will add a colorful crunch and natural sweetness to the dish.
- Shrimp Tango: Next, lay your shrimp in the skillet and let them dance until they turn a blushing pink—usually about 2 minutes per side. The quick cook time helps the shrimp to absorb flavors while maintaining their juicy, tender texture.
- Sauce It Up: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir and let it simmer away. Give it about 5 minutes and you’ll notice the sauce thickening into a creamy, dreamy blend. The broth and cream add layers of flavor that bring the whole dish together.
- The Final Flourish: Stir in the chopped parsley, and add salt and pepper to your heart’s content. Parsley not only adds a burst of color but also a refreshing, herby kick.
- Plate and Serve: Spoon the steak and shrimp onto plates and drizzle that heavenly sauce all over. Though I like serving this masterpiece over a bed of steaming rice or twirl-ready pasta, feel free to get creative with your sides!
Quick Tips for MQuick Tips for Mastering Cajun Shrimp & Steak 🌶
- Quality Counts: Use top-grade Cajun seasoning and olive oil for a flavor-packed dish.
- Meat Matters: Choose a fresh, thinly sliced flank steak for quick and even cooking.
- Don’t Overdo the Steak: Keep an eye on your steak—aim for a medium-rare finish to enjoy its tender juiciness.
- Shrimp Watch: Cook shrimp until they are a nice pink color but not too long as you don’t want them to turn rubbery.
- Thicken the Sauce: Give the chicken broth and heavy cream adequate time to simmer and thicken; this enhances the dish’s overall taste and texture.
- Season to Taste: Always adjust salt and pepper to your liking, especially after adding the Cajun seasoning.
- Serving Style: Get creative with your sides. This dish is versatile and goes well with rice, pasta, or even a simple salad.
And there you have it—your one-way ticket to becoming a Cajun Shrimp & Steak maestro. Now, let’s get cooking, shall we? 🍽
