Description

Welcome to a culinary journey that takes us through the rich history and delightful flavors of Shrimp À La Newburg. This dish is a classic American creation that whispers tales of elegance and indulgence. Originating in the late 19th century, it is said to have been named after the Newburg Hotel in New York City, where it was first served. Shrimp À La Newburg is renowned for its creamy, luxurious sauce that envelops succulent shrimp, often served over buttered toast or in pastry shells.

Imagine the aroma of shrimp sizzling in butter, complemented by the richness of heavy cream, a hint of sherry, and a sprinkle of spices. It’s a dish that embodies comfort food with a sophisticated twist, perfect for impressing dinner guests or enjoying a cozy night in. The beauty of Shrimp À La Newburg lies not only in its sumptuous flavor but also in its versatility; it can be adapted to suit various occasions, whether you're hosting a special dinner or looking to elevate a weeknight meal.

This recipe is designed to be accessible for cooks of all skill levels. With clear instructions and tips along the way, you’ll find that creating this delightful dish at home is not as daunting as it may seem. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and prepare to delight your taste buds with this timeless classic.

Ingredients

• For the shrimp mixture:
• 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of button mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup of chicken or seafood stock
• 1/2 cup of dry sherry
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the sauce:
• 1/4 cup of unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
• 2 cups of heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
• For serving:
• Buttered toast points or puff pastry shells

Preparation Method

Begin by preparing your shrimp. If you haven’t done so already, peel and devein the shrimp, making sure to rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it ensures the shrimp sear beautifully without excess moisture.

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and one tablespoon of butter. Allow the butter to melt and foam slightly, which indicates that it’s hot enough. Then, add the chopped onion and sauté for about five minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant. The goal here is to infuse the oil with the sweet flavor of the onions without browning them too much.

Next, stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for an additional three to four minutes. The mushrooms should become tender, and you’ll notice their earthy aroma filling the kitchen. This is the perfect moment to add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about two to three minutes, just until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery if left on the heat for too long.

Once the shrimp are almost cooked through, pour in the chicken or seafood stock and the dry sherry. The sherry not only adds depth and a hint of sweetness but also balances the dish beautifully. Sprinkle in the paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow this mixture to come to a gentle simmer, cooking for about five minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Now it’s time to make the creamy sauce that will elevate your Shrimp À La Newburg to new heights. In a separate saucepan, melt the quarter-cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for about two minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden color. This step cooks out the raw flavor of the flour and gives your sauce a lovely base.

Gradually pour in the heavy cream while continuing to whisk. The mixture will thicken as you stir, and you’ll want to keep whisking until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. This usually takes about five to seven minutes. As it thickens, add the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard, stirring well to combine. These ingredients will enhance the flavor and add a subtle tang that balances the richness of the cream.

Once the sauce has thickened, gently fold in the shrimp mixture from your skillet, ensuring every piece of shrimp is well-coated in the luscious sauce. Allow this to simmer for another two to three minutes, just to heat everything through and meld the flavors.

At this point, taste your creation and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you feel adventurous, you can sprinkle in a bit more paprika or even a dash of hot sauce if you enjoy a kick of heat.

For serving, you can choose to plate your Shrimp À La Newburg in various ways. The classic approach is to ladle the creamy shrimp mixture over buttered toast points, allowing the bread to soak up the decadent sauce. Alternatively, if you prefer a more elegant presentation, you can serve it in puff pastry shells for a delightful crunch that complements the soft shrimp and creamy sauce.

Tips and Conclusion

For an added touch of freshness, consider garnishing your Shrimp À La Newburg with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving. This not only enhances the dish's visual appeal but also adds a burst of flavor. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or stock to restore its creamy texture.

Looking to serve this dish alongside something? A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness of the shrimp. Alternatively, steamed asparagus or a side of garlic bread can complement the meal wonderfully.



As you savor the rich and creamy flavors of your homemade Shrimp À La Newburg, take a moment to appreciate the culinary journey you've embarked on. This dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings warmth and joy to your table. Whether it's a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, Shrimp À La Newburg is sure to impress and delight.

If you enjoyed this recipe, why not explore more seafood dishes or creamy pasta options on our site? You might find new favorites that will become staples in your kitchen. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, inviting them to join in on the delicious experience. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with delightful aromas and flavors!