Barbecue shrimp is a mouthwatering dish that seafood lovers adore, perfect for summer grilling or a quick weeknight dinner. If you’ve ever wondered how to make barbecue shrimp that’s juicy, flavorful, and packed with that irresistible smoky-sweet tang, you’re in the right place. This article will guide you through an easy-to-follow recipe and tips to help you create the perfect barbecue shrimp every time.
What Is Barbecue Shrimp?
Despite the name, barbecue shrimp isn’t always cooked over an open flame or on a traditional barbecue grill. There are different styles, but the most common approach involves shrimp cooked quickly with a rich, tangy barbecue sauce that caramelizes beautifully. Some recipes, like the famous New Orleans-style barbecue shrimp, are cooked in a buttery, spicy sauce on the stovetop rather than grilled, while others use the grill to add a smoky char.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a simple and delicious grilled barbecue shrimp, gather the following ingredients:
– 2 pounds of peeled and deveined shrimp (thawed if frozen)
– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– ⅓ cup of your favorite barbecue sauce (honey BBQ sauce works great)
– Optional: 1 teaspoon liquid smoke for extra smoky flavor
– Fresh lemon juice for finishing
– Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Barbecue Shrimp
1. Prepare the Grill and Shrimp
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread 4 to 5 shrimp onto each skewer.
Brush the shrimp lightly with olive oil and season them evenly with salt and pepper.
2. Mix the Barbecue Sauce
In a small bowl, combine your barbecue sauce with the optional liquid smoke if you want a deeper smoky flavor. Set aside half of this mixture for basting while grilling and keep the other half for serving as a dipping sauce.
3. Grill the Shrimp
Place the shrimp skewers on the hot grill. Cook for about 2 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink and slightly charred.
Flip the skewers and brush the cooked side with the barbecue sauce. Grill for another 2 minutes, then flip again and baste the other side. Continue flipping and basting every 30 to 60 seconds until the shrimp are fully cooked and nicely glazed. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp become tough quickly.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Once done, remove the shrimp from the grill and squeeze fresh lemon juice over them. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately with the reserved barbecue sauce for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Barbecue Shrimp
– Don’t overcook: Shrimp cook fast. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque.
– Choose good quality BBQ sauce: The sauce flavor really shines in this dish, so pick one you love.
– Add a smoky touch: Liquid smoke or a quick char on the grill adds depth.
– Serve with sides: Barbecue shrimp pairs wonderfully with rice, garlic bread, or a fresh salad.
– Try New Orleans style: For a different take, cook shrimp in a buttery, spicy sauce on the stove instead of grilling.
Alternative: New Orleans-Style Barbecue Shrimp
This version is less about grilling and more about a rich, buttery sauce infused with garlic, lemon, and spices. The shrimp are cooked in the sauce until tender and served with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. It’s a classic and indulgent way to enjoy barbecue shrimp without a grill.
Barbecue shrimp is a quick, flavorful dish that can easily become a favorite. Whether grilled with a sweet and smoky barbecue sauce or simmered in a spicy buttery sauce, the key is fresh shrimp and bold flavors. Fire up your grill or stovetop and enjoy this seafood delight tonight!