Shrimp is a versatile protein that can be prepared in many delicious ways. When seasoning shrimp, using the right spices can take the flavor to the next level. The key is to choose spices that will complement the natural sweetness of shrimp without overpowering its delicate flavor. Here are some of the best spices to use when cooking shrimp.
Old Bay
Old Bay seasoning is a classic choice for shrimp. This spice blend contains celery salt, mustard, cloves, allspice, red pepper flakes, mace, ginger, paprika, and more. It adds a tangy, zesty flavor that really enhances the taste of shrimp. A dash of Old Bay gives shrimp an iconic seafood taste. It’s especially good on grilled, broiled, or fried shrimp.
Cajun Spice
Cajun spice mixes are another excellent option for seasoning shrimp. They typically contain ingredients like garlic, onion, cayenne pepper, black pepper, oregano, and thyme. The blend of herbs and spices gives the shrimp a robust, spicy Cajun flavor. Use Cajun spices when making jambalaya, étouffée, or for blackened shrimp. It’s a foolproof way to give shrimp extra flair.
Lemon Pepper
For a bright, fresh flavor, try coating shrimp in lemon pepper before cooking. Lemon pepper seasoning has citrus notes that enhance the natural sweetness of shrimp. Often the blend includes lemon zest, cracked black peppercorns, onions, and garlic. The tanginess of the lemon balances beautifully with the shrimp. It’s a simple seasoning that really lets the shrimp shine.
Cumin
Cumin is an ideal spice for bringing out the nutty essence of shrimp. It adds earthy, warm flavor that interplays deliciously with the sweet brininess of the shrimp. Lightly dust shrimp with ground cumin before sautéing or roasting. Cumin transforms shrimp into a more complex, intriguing dish. It’s especially tasty in Mexican-style shrimp recipes.
Smoked Paprika
For a touch of smoky spiciness, use smoked paprika when cooking shrimp. It has a rich, robust flavor that complements seafood extremely well. Smoked paprika can be used to season grilled shrimp kebabs, shrimp tacos, sautéed shrimp, and more. It gives a nice charred taste without the shrimp actually being charred. Smoked paprika takes shrimp to the next level.
Garlic Powder
Garlic powder is a simple but impactful seasoning for shrimp. The sharp, potent flavor of garlic is a perfect match for sweet shrimp. Use garlic powder when making shrimp scampi, shrimp Alfredo, seared shrimp, or shrimp pasta recipes. It’s an easy way to add lots of flavor fast. Just a light sprinkle of garlic powder makes shrimp taste bolder.
Cayenne Pepper
For spicy shrimp dishes, turn to cayenne pepper. This ground chili pepper adds serious heat and pungency. Use it in moderation to give shrimp a fiery kick. Cayenne pepper pairs well with other seasonings like paprika, cumin, and oregano. It infuses shrimp with spiciness while still letting the natural shrimp flavor shine. Cayenne pepper adds intensity to any shrimp recipe.
Conclusion
When it comes to seasoning shrimp, you have lots of delicious spices and herb blends to choose from. Old Bay, Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper are all fantastic options. Experiment with different spice combinations to find your favorite flavors. With the right seasonings, you can take your shrimp dishes from bland to bold and vibrant.