Potted Shrimps

Servings: 4 Difficulty: Intermediate
Classic British preserved shrimp spread with rich butter and aromatic spices
Potted Shrimps(english recipe image

Potted Shrimps

Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 4 Calories: 1530.5

Description

This elegant British delicacy transforms simple shrimps into a luxurious, spreadable conserve. The key lies in the generous amount of clarified butter, which preserves the seafood while imparting a silky, luxurious texture. Aromatic mace and a hint of cayenne provide warmth and depth, balancing the richness of the butter. Traditionally served cold, potted shrimps are perfect for spreading on crisp toast or crackers. They make an impressive addition to a afternoon tea spread, a sophisticated appetizer for dinner parties, or a quick, elegant bite for guests. The flavors meld beautifully when chilled, creating a smooth, savory paste that is both nostalgic and refined. It is a testament to simple ingredients elevated through technique and patience.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Finely chop half of the shelled shrimps, leaving the other half whole or roughly chopped for texture.
  2. Mix the chopped and whole shrimps together in a bowl and stir in the ground mace.
  3. Melt 6 ounces of butter in a heavy saucepan over low heat.
  4. Add the shrimp mixture to the melted butter, stirring gently until the shrimps have absorbed the butter and are heated through.
  5. Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick of heat.
  6. Spoon the hot shrimp mixture into small ramekins or a terrine dish, pressing down firmly to remove air pockets.
  7. Melt the remaining 2 ounces of butter separately.
  8. Pour the melted butter evenly over the top of the shrimp mixture to create an airtight seal.
  9. Allow the potted shrimps to cool at room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least several hours, preferably overnight, to set.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 1530.5kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 162.8g251%
Saturated Fat 102.1g511%
Cholesterol 602.5mg201%
Sodium 1641.3mg69%
Total Carbohydrate 0.4g1%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 0.4g
Protein 24.5g49%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Serve cold, spread on hot toast cut into fingers or on crisp crackers.

Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to 1 week. The layer of butter acts as a preservative, but ensure the dish remains chilled.

Tip: For a smoother texture, you can process all the shrimps in a food processor before mixing with the butter.

Keywords: british, shrimp, potted, spread, butter, mace, cayenne, appetizer, preserved, seafood, toast, conserves, chilled, party, entree, classic, english, rustic, savory, rich
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