Shrimp Creole

Let's Cook

1. Step 1.

   Combine in a heavy skillet over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until light brown: ¼ cup vegetable oil or butter; ¼ cup all-purpose flour

2. Step 2.

   Add and sauté until softened, about 8 minutes: 1 onion, chopped; 1 celery rib, chopped; ½ green bell pepper, chopped

3. Step 3.

   Add and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes: 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; ¼ to ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, to taste; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper

4. Step 4.

   Add and stir to combine: 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes; 1 cup shrimp or chicken stock or water; 2 tablespoons tomato paste

5. Step 5.

   Cover and simmer gently over medium-low heat for 20 minutes. Add: 1½ pounds medium to large shell-on shrimp, peeled and deveined

6. Step 6.

   Cook until the shrimp are firm and pink, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and taste the sauce for seasoning. Discard the bay leaf. Serve with: Cooked white rice; Hot pepper sauce; Chopped parsley