Creamy Shrimp Newburg

Creamy Shrimp Newburg is a luxurious, elegant dish that blends the richness of a buttery cream sauce with the delicate sweetness of shrimp. This classic recipe, originating in the 19th century, has stood the test of time as a decadent and flavorful entrée. Shrimp Newburg’s velvety sauce is infused with a touch of sherry or brandy, a hint of nutmeg, and a delicate balance of spices, making it perfect for special occasions, holiday dinners, or even a romantic meal at home. Served over rice, toast points, or puff pastry, this dish is as versatile as it is indulgent. Despite its fancy reputation, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare, allowing you to create a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant and Timeless: Shrimp Newburg is a classic recipe that’s perfect for impressing guests or celebrating special occasions.
• Rich and Flavorful: The cream-based sauce, flavored with sherry and nutmeg, is irresistibly decadent.
• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
• Customizable: Use lobster, scallops, or crab for a twist on the traditional recipe.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, pasta, or pastry for a dish that fits any occasion.

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 generous portion

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails removed)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ½ cup dry sherry or brandy
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup seafood or chicken stock
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 egg yolks (lightly beaten)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Chopped fresh parsley or chives, for garnish

Optional Serving Suggestions:

• Toast points
• Puff pastry shells
• Steamed rice or noodles

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shallots and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant and softened.

Step 4: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour into the skillet, stirring constantly to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to lose its raw taste but without letting it brown.

Step 5: Deglaze with Sherry

Slowly pour the sherry or brandy into the skillet, stirring continuously to deglaze the pan and incorporate the roux. Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 6: Add the Cream and Stock

Gradually stir in the heavy cream and seafood stock, whisking until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken.

Step 7: Flavor the Sauce

Stir in the Dijon mustard, paprika, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 8: Temper the Egg Yolks

In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly add a ladleful of the hot sauce to the yolks, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Once combined, stir the tempered yolks back into the skillet, stirring to create a silky, velvety sauce.

Step 9: Finish the Dish

Return the shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the sauce. Add the lemon juice and let everything heat through for 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp.

Step 10: Serve

Serve the Creamy Shrimp Newburg hot over your choice of toast points, rice, puff pastry, or pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Ingredient Background

Shrimp

Shrimp are the star of this dish, offering a sweet, tender protein that pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy sauce. Large or jumbo shrimp are ideal, as they hold their shape and texture during cooking.

Sherry or Brandy

A splash of sherry or brandy adds depth and complexity to the sauce, complementing the richness of the cream and the sweetness of the shrimp.

Egg Yolks

The egg yolks give the sauce its luxurious, velvety texture. Tempering them ensures they don’t curdle when added to the hot sauce.

Nutmeg

A hint of nutmeg provides a warm, subtle spice that enhances the creaminess of the dish without overpowering the other flavors.

Technique Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Remove them from the skillet as soon as they’re pink and opaque.
• Temper the Egg Yolks: Whisking a small amount of the hot sauce into the yolks prevents them from scrambling when added to the skillet.
• Use a Whisk: A whisk ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce, especially when incorporating the flour and liquids.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Lobster Newburg: Swap the shrimp for lobster meat for an even more luxurious version of this classic dish.
• Seafood Newburg: Combine shrimp with scallops, crab, or even chunks of white fish for a seafood medley.
• Vegetarian Newburg: Substitute the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms and asparagus for a plant-based twist on the original.

Additional Tips for Success

• Room-Temperature Ingredients: Bring the cream and egg yolks to room temperature before using to prevent curdling.
• Cook in Batches: If your skillet isn’t large enough to cook all the shrimp at once, work in batches to ensure even cooking.
• Deglaze Thoroughly: Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet when adding the sherry or brandy for maximum flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Shrimp Newburg: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Garlic Lover’s Newburg: Double the amount of garlic for a more robust flavor.
• Lightened-Up Newburg: Use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or stock if the sauce thickens too much.
• Freeze: While the sauce can be frozen, it may separate upon thawing. To freeze, store the sauce and shrimp separately, then reheat and combine before serving.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use Olive Oil: Replace some or all of the butter with olive oil for a lighter option.
• Reduce the Cream: Swap half the cream for unsweetened almond milk or chicken broth to cut down on fat and calories.
• Serve Over Greens: Instead of rice or toast, serve the shrimp over a bed of sautéed spinach or kale.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Dinner Party Starter: Serve smaller portions in ramekins or shallow bowls with puff pastry or crostini.
• Holiday Main Course: Present the dish in a large, decorative platter surrounded by toast points or puff pastry shells for a festive centerpiece.
• Romantic Dinner: Pair the dish with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, for a romantic, elegant meal.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: A wide, heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even cooking and prevents the sauce from scorching.
• Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth, lump-free sauce.
• Instant-Read Thermometer: Useful for checking that the shrimp are perfectly cooked without overdoing them.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well for this recipe. Thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

2. Can I omit the sherry or brandy?

If you prefer to skip the alcohol, substitute an equal amount of chicken or seafood stock.

3. What’s the best way to temper egg yolks?

Whisk the yolks in a small bowl, then slowly drizzle in a ladleful of the hot sauce while whisking constantly. This gradual heating prevents the yolks from curdling.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently before adding the shrimp. Cook the shrimp fresh for best results.

5. Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

6. What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half, whole milk, or coconut cream can be used, though the sauce will be less rich.

7. How do I keep the sauce from curdling?

Ensure that the cream and egg yolks are at room temperature and avoid boiling the sauce. Low, gentle heat is key.

8. What other proteins can I use?

Lobster, scallops, crab, or even chunks of white fish like cod or haddock make excellent substitutions.

Conclusion
Creamy Shrimp Newburg is a timeless classic that brings a touch of elegance to any meal. With its velvety sauce, perfectly cooked shrimp, and versatile serving options, this dish is as impressive as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, Shrimp Newburg is sure to leave a lasting impression. So grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a dish that’s rich in flavor and history!

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