Spicy Pickled Shrimp recipe
Spicy Pickled Shrimp is a zesty, flavorful appetizer that combines the freshness of shrimp with the bold heat of red pepper flakes, paprika, and cayenne pepper, balanced by the tanginess of vinegar and lemon. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their seafood. The shrimp are briefly boiled, then marinated in a spicy, garlicky vinegar-based brine, infused with aromatic herbs like bay leaves and black peppercorns. After a few hours of pickling, the shrimp develop a depth of flavor that makes them perfect for serving chilled as an appetizer, paired with bread, crackers, or a light salad. The balance of heat and acidity makes this dish an irresistible treat for spice lovers!
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cups water
2 tablespoons kosher salt (for boiling shrimp)
1/2 cup white vinegar
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup olive oil
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to spice preference)
2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
1 bay leaf
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
Instructions:
Cook the Shrimp
Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Add 2 tablespoons of kosher salt.
Add shrimp to the boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until pink and opaque.
Transfer shrimp to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Let cool for 5 minutes, then drain.
Prepare the Pickling Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together white vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, Old Bay seasoning, red pepper flakes, garlic, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Assemble the Pickled Shrimp
In a large glass jar or container, layer shrimp, red onion slices, and parsley.
Pour the marinade over the shrimp mixture, ensuring everything is submerged. Add black peppercorns and the bay leaf.
Pickling Process
Cover the jar/container and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld.
Serve
Before serving, give the shrimp a gentle stir. Serve chilled as an appetizer, with crusty bread, or over a salad.
Notes:
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is best for flavor, but frozen shrimp works well if thawed properly.
Vinegar: You can substitute apple cider vinegar for white vinegar for a sweeter tang.
Onions: Red onions provide a sharp flavor contrast but can be replaced with shallots for a milder taste.
Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Shake the jar occasionally to redistribute flavors.
Tips:
Use a glass jar for better flavor preservation and to avoid any reaction with vinegar.
Adjust spice levels to your preference by adding more or less red pepper flakes or cayenne.
Ensure shrimp is well-drained before adding it to the marinade to avoid diluting the flavors.
Nutritional Info (per serving)
Calories: 160
Protein: 18g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 450mg
This tangy and spicy pickled shrimp recipe is a versatile dish perfect for entertaining or meal prepping. Enjoy!