How to Make Cajun Crawfish and Shrimp Étouffée - A Step-by-Step Guide

Étouffée is a classic Cajun dish that originates from the bayous of Louisiana. It is a rich, flavorful stew typically made with shellfish, vegetables, and a thick, spicy sauce. One of the most popular variations of étouffée is made with crawfish and shrimp, creating a dish that is both hearty and indulgent.

Cajun cuisine is known for its bold and vibrant flavors, and this dish is no exception. The combination of the savory seafood, aromatic vegetables, and a blend of Cajun spices crea...

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Ingredients

  • ⅓ cup vegetable oil
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 small green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 2 medium fresh tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Louisiana-style hot sauce
  • ⅓ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (Optional)
  • 2 tablespoons seafood seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 cup fish stock
  • 1 pound crawfish tails
  • 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

Information

  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 50 mins
  • Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins
  • Servings: 6
  • Yield: 6 servings

  • Heat the oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Gradually stir in flour, and stir constantly until the mixture turns 'peanut butter' brown or darker, at least 15 or 20 minutes. I use a large fork with the flat side to the bottom of the pan in a side to side motion. This is your base sauce or 'roux'. It is very important to stir this constantly. If by chance the roux burns, discard and start over.
  • Once the roux is browned, add the onions, garlic, celery and bell pepper to the skillet, and saute for about 5 minutes to soften. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and fish stock, and season with the seafood seasoning. Reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Season the sauce with hot pepper sauce and cayenne pepper (if using), and add the crawfish and shrimp. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque.
  • Nutrition

    264 cal.

    • Total Fat: 14g
    • Saturated Fat: 2g
    • Cholesterol: 196mg
    • Sodium: 956mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 9g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Total Sugars: 3g
    • Protein: 25g
    • Vitamin C: 22mg
    • Calcium: 84mg
    • Iron: 3mg
    • Potassium: 483mg