How to Use Zatarain’s Concentrated Shrimp and Crab Boil for Maximum Flavor

Zatarain’s Concentrated Shrimp and Crab Boil is a popular seasoning that can take your seafood boils to the next level. This liquid seasoning packs the bold, spicy flavors of New Orleans into a compact 4 oz bottle. But how exactly should you use it to get the most out of this versatile product? Here’s a complete guide to using Zatarain’s Concentrated Shrimp and Crab Boil to make your seafood irresistibly delicious.

An Overview of Zatarain’s Concentrated Shrimp and Crab Boil

Zatarain’s Concentrated Shrimp and Crab Boil is a liquid seasoning made by the McCormick company’s Zatarain’s brand. It comes in a 4 oz plastic bottle and has a transparent orange-red color. The main ingredients are water, polysorbate 80, spice extracts like capsicum, natural and artificial flavors, caramel color, and paprika extract.

This concentrated seasoning is designed to be used when boiling shellfish like shrimp, crawfish, and crab. It infuses the boiling water with robust flavors like garlic, lemon, and plenty of spice. The result is seafood with an authentic New Orleans-style seasoning that’s full of flavor in every bite.

Tips for Using Zatarain’s Concentrated Shrimp and Crab Boil

Here are some key tips to use Zatarain’s Concentrated Shrimp and Crab Boil to maximize the flavor:

• Use the recommended amount: The instructions say to use 1 tablespoon per 1 quart of water. Following this ratio is important to get the right flavor balance.

• Add it to vigorously boiling water Adding the seasoning to already boiling water allows it to disperse and infuse the water quickly

• Let the seafood soak: After returning the pot to a boil, let the seafood soak for 2-5 minutes for shrimp, 30 minutes for crawfish, and 30 minutes for crabs. This allows the seasonings to fully penetrate the seafood.

• Use for veggies too You can also add a bit to flavor boiled potatoes, corn, or other veggies. Start with 1/2 tablespoon per quart of water and adjust to taste

• Shake before use: Give the bottle a good shake before each use to disperse the spices and oils throughout the liquid.

• Store properly: Keep the bottle sealed and store away from direct light and heat to preserve the flavors. Refrigeration after opening can help it last longer.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Using with Shrimp

Here is a simple step-by-step guide for how to use Zatarain’s Concentrated Shrimp and Crab Boil when boiling shrimp:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 quarts water
• 2 tablespoons salt
• 2 tablespoons Zatarain’s Concentrated Shrimp and Crab Boil

Instructions:

1. Fill a large pot with 2 quarts of water and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.

2. Add 2 tablespoons of salt to the boiling water and stir to dissolve. This seasons the shrimp throughout.

3. Add the shrimp to the pot and let boil for 1 minute.

4. Add 2 tablespoons of Zatarain’s Concentrated Shrimp and Crab Boil. Stir to incorporate.

5. Once boiling again, let the shrimp soak for 2-5 minutes depending on size.

6. Turn off the heat and drain the shrimp into a colander.

7. Transfer shrimp to a serving plate and enjoy hot or chilled!

The soaking time lets those spices and flavors really soak into the shrimp, so they pack a flavor punch in every bite. Adjust the soaking time as needed for larger or smaller shrimp.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Boiled shrimp seasoned with Zatarain’s Concentrated Shrimp and Crab Boil make for a tasty appetizer or main dish in many ways:

• Chilled shrimp with cocktail sauce or remoulade

• Shrimp tacos with avocado, cotija cheese, and lime crema

• Shrimp salad with diced celery and onion

• Shrimp po’ boy sandwiches with lettuce, tomato, and spicy mayo

• Shrimp and cheesy grits

• Shrimp over creamy polenta

• Shrimp skewers brushed with barbecue sauce

The bold Cajun-Creole flavors of the boiled shrimp pair especially well with starchy sides like potatoes, corn, and bread to balance the spices. Some chilled beer or white wine are also great drinks with a shrimp boil seasoned with this versatile seasoning.

Tips for the Best Results

Here are a few final tips for getting the most flavor and the perfect boil when using Zatarain’s Concentrated Shrimp and Crab Boil:

• Use fresh shrimp within a couple days for optimal texture and flavor

• Peel and devein shrimp for the best presentation and eating experience

• Use shell-on shrimp for even more flavor infusion during boiling

• Allow 3-5 shrimp per person for a satisfying appetizer portion

• Control the level of spice by reducing soaking time for milder flavor

• Add lemon, bay leaf, garlic, or cayenne pepper for extra flavor dimensions

With Zatarain’s Concentrated Shrimp and Crab Boil, you can easily give your shrimp boils an authentic New Orleans-inspired kick of flavor. Follow these tips to make boiled shrimp, crawfish, and crab with lip-smacking Cajun-Creole flavor that your family and friends will love.