Description
These Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs are a delightful twist on a classic appetizer, infusing the creamy, comforting taste of deviled eggs with the spicy, vibrant flavors of Louisiana. Each bite offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes, from the smooth, rich yolk filling to the succulent, Cajun-seasoned shrimp. These deviled eggs are perfect for parties, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a unique and flavorful dish. The combination of Creole mustard, pickled jalapeños, and Cajun spices elevates this appetizer to a whole new level, making it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Enjoy the taste of New Orleans in every bite!
Ingredients
- 12 large eggs
- 24 small raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Creole mustard
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
- 4 teaspoons finely chopped pickled jalapeños
- Cajun seasoning, to taste
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
Preparation
Step 1: Boil the eggs: Place eggs in a large pot of boiling water; cook for 13 minutes. Transfer to an ice water bath for 15 minutes before peeling. This step is crucial for ensuring the eggs are perfectly cooked and easy to peel. The ice bath stops the cooking process, preventing a green ring from forming around the yolk.
Step 2: Sear the shrimp: Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning generously. Heat avocado oil in a hot skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 1-2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Ensure not to overcook the shrimp, as they will become rubbery. Let cool completely before proceeding.
Step 3: Prepare the filling: Gently halve the peeled eggs lengthwise and remove the yolks. Place the yolks in a mixing bowl. Add mayonnaise, Creole mustard, green onions, and pickled jalapeños to the yolks.
Step 4: Mix Well: Use a fork or a mixer to mash all ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Season with additional Cajun seasoning to taste. For the best flavor, cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Assemble: Transfer the yolk mixture to a piping bag or a Ziploc bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe the mixture evenly into the egg white halves. Top each egg half with a seared shrimp. Garnish with additional green onions, a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning, or a small piece of jalapeño, if desired, for added visual appeal and flavor.
Why you’ll love this recipe
These Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs are a standout appetizer due to their unique flavor profile and elegant presentation. The combination of creamy deviled egg filling with the spicy kick of Cajun-seasoned shrimp creates an unforgettable taste experience. They are easy to make, can be prepared in advance, and are always a hit at parties.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
- Include them as part of a brunch spread.
- Pair them with other Cajun-inspired dishes like gumbo or jambalaya.
- Offer a variety of garnishes such as fresh parsley, paprika, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Tips
- To prevent the egg yolks from turning green, cool the eggs quickly in an ice bath immediately after boiling.
- For a smoother filling, use a food processor to blend the yolk mixture.
- Make the deviled egg filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- If you don’t have Creole mustard, Dijon mustard can be used as a substitute, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and jalapeños to suit your spice preference.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: 1 deviled egg (47g)
- Calories: 72
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 98mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Cholesterol: 186mg
- Sugar: 0g
Conclusion
The Cajun Shrimp Deviled Eggs recipe offers a flavorful and unique twist on a classic appetizer. With its creamy filling, spicy Cajun shrimp, and easy preparation, this dish is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite at any gathering. Enjoy the vibrant taste of New Orleans in every bite!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
- Can I make these deviled eggs ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the filling and cook the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble the deviled eggs just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
- What can I use if I don’t have Creole mustard?
- If you don’t have Creole mustard, Dijon mustard can be used as a substitute. However, keep in mind that it will alter the flavor profile slightly, so you might want to add a pinch of Cajun seasoning to compensate.
- How do I prevent the egg yolks from turning green?
- To prevent the egg yolks from turning green, make sure to cool the eggs quickly in an ice bath immediately after boiling. Overcooking can also contribute to the green discoloration, so stick to the recommended cooking time of 13 minutes.
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, and season them well with Cajun seasoning before searing.
- What are some other garnish options for these deviled eggs?
- Besides the suggested green onions, Cajun seasoning, and jalapeños, you can also garnish these deviled eggs with fresh parsley, paprika, a drizzle of hot sauce, or even a sprinkle of crumbled bacon for added flavor and texture.
