Potted shrimp is an English delicacy that is perfect for afternoon tea or as a light appetizer. It is a simple but delicious recipe that combines fresh shrimp with butter and spices to create a rich, creamy flavor that is sure to impress your guests. In this article, we will guide you through the ingredients, instructions, and nutrition of this classic dish, so you can enjoy it in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients
To make potted shrimp, you will need the following ingredients:
1 pound of fresh shrimp
8 ounces of unsalted butter
1 teaspoon of ground mace
1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon of ground white pepper
1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
Salt to taste
Choosing the Shrimp
When it comes to choosing the shrimp for this recipe, it's best to go for the freshest and highest quality you can find. Look for shrimp that are still in their shells and have a firm texture. You can also use pre-cooked shrimp, but fresh is always better.
Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients, it's time to start cooking. Here's how to make potted shrimp:
Start by boiling the shrimp in salted water for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Drain and rinse under cold water.
Peel the shrimp and remove the tails. Chop the shrimp into small pieces and set aside.
Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Add the mace, nutmeg, white pepper, cayenne pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
Add the chopped shrimp to the butter mixture and stir to coat the shrimp evenly.
Transfer the shrimp mixture to small ramekins or jars. Press the mixture down with a spoon to pack it tightly.
Refrigerate the potted shrimp for at least 2 hours, or until the butter has set.
When you're ready to serve, remove the potted shrimp from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious potted shrimp with toasted bread or crackers!
Tips for Success
To make the perfect potted shrimp, here are some tips to keep in mind:
Make sure the butter is melted slowly over low heat to prevent it from burning.
Use freshly ground spices for the best flavor.
Don't overcook the shrimp or they will become tough and rubbery.
Be sure to pack the shrimp mixture tightly into the ramekins or jars to prevent air pockets.
Refrigerate the potted shrimp for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
Nutrition
One serving of potted shrimp (3 ounces) contains approximately:
Calories: 345
Protein: 16 grams
Fat: 32 grams
Carbohydrates: 1 gram
Fiber: 0 grams
Sugar: 0 grams
Sodium: 534 milligrams
Conclusion
Potted shrimp is a classic English dish that is easy to make and delicious to eat. With its rich, creamy flavor and delicate shrimp texture, it's no wonder this dish has stood the test of time. Whether you're hosting a tea party or looking for a light appetizer, potted shrimp is sure to impress your guests. So why not give this recipe a try and savor the taste of a true English delight?