This recipe creates deeply aromatic shrimp using a unique “light tea” smoking method. The combination of long-grain rice, loose black tea, and brown sugar generates a fragrant smoke that penetrates the shellfish, while caraway seeds and salt add a savory, earthy depth. The result is shrimp that is tender, subtly sweet, and richly flavored without being overpowering. Perfect as an elegant appetizer, a salad topping, or a standalone snack, these smoked shrimp offer a sophisticated twist on traditional seafood preparation. They pair beautifully with creamy remoulade or a sharp mustard sauce. This dish is ideal for entertaining guests or adding a gourmet touch to your next gathering.
Smoked Shrimp Sauce
Description
This recipe creates deeply aromatic shrimp using a unique "light tea" smoking method. The combination of long-grain rice, loose black tea, and brown sugar generates a fragrant smoke that penetrates the shellfish, while caraway seeds and salt add a savory, earthy depth. The result is shrimp that is tender, subtly sweet, and richly flavored without being overpowering. Perfect as an elegant appetizer, a salad topping, or a standalone snack, these smoked shrimp offer a sophisticated twist on traditional seafood preparation. They pair beautifully with creamy remoulade or a sharp mustard sauce. This dish is ideal for entertaining guests or adding a gourmet touch to your next gathering.Ingredients
Directions
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In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of water, 2 teaspoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of caraway seeds. Stir until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
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Add the shelled and deveined shrimp to the brine mixture. Ensure they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to cure and infuse flavor.
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While the shrimp cure, prepare the smoking mixture. In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup of long-grain rice, 2 tablespoons of loose black tea, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 5 dried red chilies (if using).
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Set up your smoker or a stovetop smoking pan. Place the smoking mixture in the bottom of the smoker or on a piece of foil in the pan.
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Drain the cured shrimp well and pat them dry with paper towels. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the rack or plate designated for smoking.
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Place the shrimp over the smoking mixture. Cover tightly to trap the smoke. Heat the smoker or pan until the mixture begins to smoke heavily.
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Smoke the shrimp for 7-8 minutes, or until they have a golden color and a distinct smoky aroma. Avoid over-smoking to prevent bitterness.
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Remove the shrimp from the smoker and let them cool slightly. Serve immediately with remoulade sauce or sweet and hot mustard.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 708.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 6.0g10%
- Saturated Fat 1.9g10%
- Cholesterol 149.9mg50%
- Sodium 5166.2mg216%
- Total Carbohydrate 141.9g48%
- Dietary Fiber 0.7g3%
- Sugars 135.5g
- Protein 25.4g51%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.