Dive into the heart of Southern cuisine with our mouthwatering Low Country Shrimp Boil! This vibrant dish, brimming with succulent shrimp, tender potatoes, and sweet corn, is not just a meal—it's a celebration of flavors and togetherness. Imagine the aroma of Old Bay seasoning wafting through the air as you gather around the table with family and friends, ready to indulge in this iconic coastal feast. Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or simply craving a taste of the South, this recipe promises to deliver a delightful experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Ready to make a splash in your kitchen? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds shrimp, unpeeled
- 1 pound small red potatoes
- 4 ears corn, halved
- 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1/4 cup Old Bay seasoning
- Water for boiling
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 pounds of unpeeled shrimp, 1 pound of small red potatoes, 4 ears of corn (halved), 1/2 pound of smoked sausage (sliced), 1/4 cup of Old Bay seasoning, and water for boiling.
- Fill a large pot with enough water to cover all the ingredients. Typically, this will be about 4-6 quarts of water depending on the size of your pot.
- Add the Old Bay seasoning to the water. Stir to combine, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the water.
- Bring the seasoned water to a rolling boil over high heat. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
- While the water is heating up, wash the red potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Cut any larger potatoes in half to ensure even cooking.
- Once the water is boiling, carefully add the red potatoes to the pot. Cover and boil for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- After 10 minutes, add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot. Stir gently to combine and continue boiling for an additional 5 minutes.
- Next, add the halved corn to the pot. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Finally, add the unpeeled shrimp to the pot. Stir gently to ensure the shrimp are submerged in the boiling water. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Once the shrimp are cooked, remove the pot from heat. Carefully drain the contents using a large colander in the sink.
- To serve, spread the shrimp, potatoes, corn, and sausage out on a large serving platter or newspaper-covered table for a traditional presentation. Optionally, you can garnish with additional Old Bay seasoning or lemon wedges.
- Enjoy your Low Country Shrimp Boil with friends and family, making sure to provide plenty of napkins!
Tips
- Ingredient Prep: Make sure to wash the potatoes and corn thoroughly before cooking. This will enhance the freshness of your dish and eliminate any dirt.
- Timing is Key: To ensure everything is cooked perfectly, follow the order of adding ingredients as stated in the recipe. This allows each component to reach its ideal tenderness without overcooking.
- Adjust the Spice: If you love a bit more heat, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the boiling water along with the Old Bay seasoning.
- Serving Style: For an authentic Low Country experience, spread the shrimp boil out on a newspaper-covered table. This not only looks great but also makes for easy cleanup!
- Leftover Magic: If you have any leftovers, they can be easily transformed into a delicious shrimp salad or added to pasta for a quick meal the next day.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t forget to serve with lemon wedges and extra Old Bay seasoning on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon can elevate the flavors and add a zesty kick!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 250mg