How to Make Delicious Boiling Crab Shrimp at Home

Boiling crab shrimp has become a hugely popular dish, thanks to restaurant chains like The Boiling Crab that have made it their signature menu item. This cajun-style shrimp boil features tender shrimp soaked in a lip-smackingly spicy, garlicky butter sauce that is irresistibly finger-licking good.

While you may have to wait in line for hours at the restaurant you can easily recreate this dish at home with just a few simple ingredients and steps. In this article I’ll walk you through exactly how to make boiling crab shrimp that tastes just as amazing as the restaurant version.

Overview of Boiling Crab Shrimp

Boiling crab shrimp is a cajun-inspired shrimp dish where the shrimp are poached or boiled briefly, then coated in a thick, aromatic butter sauce packed with cajun spices. The shrimp is typically served unshelled in a bag to retain moisture and flavor.

This dish has its roots in the cajun seafood boils of Louisiana which feature shellfish like crawfish boiled in heavily seasoned water The Boiling Crab put a unique spin on this classic by using shrimp and creating an addictive butter sauce

The result is tender shrimp enveloped in a sauce that provides a tangy, spicy and garlicky flavor in every bite. It’s a fun, hands-on eating experience as you peel and devour each succulent shrimp. No wonder this dish has people lining up!

How to Make Boiling Crab Shrimp at Home

Recreating boiling crab shrimp at home is simple with just 10 ingredients and a few easy steps

Ingredients:

• Shrimp – peeled, deveined large shrimp
• Butter – salted or unsalted
• Garlic – minced
• Paprika
• Cayenne pepper
• Lemon pepper
• Cajun seasoning
• Old Bay seasoning
• Red curry paste
• Granulated sugar

Steps:

1. Melt butter in a pan over low heat.

2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.

3. Add all the seasonings and sugar. Simmer sauce for 2-3 minutes.

4. In a separate pot, briefly boil shrimp until just pink.

5. Toss shrimp in sauce, coating well.

6. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

7. Enjoy immediately while hot!

And that’s it! With just 10 ingredients you likely have on hand and less than 15 minutes of cooking, you can make delicious boiling crab shrimp any time.

Tips for Making Perfect Boiling Crab Shrimp

Follow these handy tips for choosing shrimp, making the sauce, boiling, and serving to nail this popular cajun shrimp dish:

Selecting Shrimp

• Go for large or jumbo shrimp with shells on to preserve moisture.
• Use fresh or thoroughly thawed frozen shrimp.
• Deveined shrimp peels easier.
• Raw shrimp works best to control doneness.

Making the Sauce

• Use real butter for the best flavor.
• Sauté garlic briefly to infuse flavor.
• Simmer sauce 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
• Use fresh spices and seasonings.
• Balance spice with a touch of sugar.
• Squeeze lemon juice in right before serving.

Boiling the Shrimp

• Use enough water to cover shrimp and bring to a boil.
• Turn off heat, add shrimp, cover and let sit 1-2 minutes.
• Drain immediately once opaque and pink.

Coating and Serving

• Toss shrimp in warm sauce to coat fully.
• Serve hot with napkins for messy peeling.
• Provide empty shells bowl and bread/corn for dipping.

Recipe Variations

Once you master the classic recipe, try these easy variations:

• Swap seafood seasoning for Old Bay.
• Add jalapeños or cajun spices to the boiling water.
• Use crab legs, mussels, clams instead of some shrimp.
• Make the sauce more indulgent with cream cheese.
• Fry the shrimp instead of boiling for crispy cajun shrimp.
• Serve over pasta or grits instead of on its own.

FAQs About Making Boiling Crab Shrimp

How long do I boil the shrimp?

Boil just until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, about 1-2 minutes. Overcooking makes them rubbery.

Can I adjust the heat level?

Yes, reduce or omit the cayenne and curry paste for milder flavor. Or add more for extra heat.

What if I don’t have certain seasonings?

Substitute similar cajun or seafood seasoning blends if you don’t have Cajun or Old Bay seasoning.

How long do leftovers last refrigerated?

Store leftovers 3-5 days. Reheat gently before serving again.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, make the sauce up to 5 days in advance then gently reheat before using.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely first and pat dry. Adjust boiling time as needed.

Can I bake instead of boil the shrimp?

Yes, bake at 400°F for 5-7 minutes until opaque throughout then coat with sauce.

Satisfaction of DIY Boiling Crab Shrimp

With these simple tricks, you can easily recreate a flavorful boiling crab shrimp feast in your own kitchen. Making it yourself lets you customize flavors and skip long restaurant wait times.

Bring the fun, finger-licking flavors of cajun shrimp boil to your next gathering. Prepare plenty of napkins and enjoy peeling, dipping and devouring boiled shrimp coated in rich, spicy butter sauce. The satisfaction of a homemade boiling crab meal is priceless!