Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs. Wild-Caught Jumbo or Colossal Shrimp: The key to a great shrimp dish is fresh, high-quality shrimp. Opt for wild-caught jumbo or colossal shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Make sure they’re deveined and cleaned for easy preparation.
- ½ Cup Unsalted Butter: Butter is the foundation of the rich sauce that coats the shrimp. Its creamy texture balances the heat from the peppers and adds a luxurious finish.
- 1 Cup Scotch Bonnet Pepper Sauce: You can use store-bought or homemade sauce for this recipe. This spicy, tangy sauce infuses the shrimp with an unmistakable Caribbean kick.
- 4 Garlic Cloves, Minced: Garlic adds a savory depth that complements the sweetness of the shrimp and the heat of the peppers.
- 2 Tablespoons Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika lends a subtle smokiness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 Tablespoon Lawry’s Seasoning Salt: A popular seasoning blend, this adds a savory punch and helps bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Pinch of Sea Salt and Black Pepper: These simple seasonings balance the flavors and enhance the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
- Handful of Fresh Thyme Sprigs: Thyme is an essential herb in Caribbean cooking. Its earthy aroma pairs beautifully with the shrimp and spices.
- 4–5 Scotch Bonnet Peppers, Chopped: For authentic Jamaican heat, scotch bonnet peppers are a must. If you prefer milder spice, you can substitute with habanero peppers or use fewer scotch bonnets.
Instructions
- Prepare Your Shrimp
- Start by cleaning and deveining the shrimp. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. This step ensures the shrimp are fresh and ready to absorb the flavors.
- Marinate the Shrimp
- In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, scotch bonnet pepper sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, seasoning salt, sea salt, black pepper, and chopped scotch bonnet peppers. Mix well to ensure each shrimp is evenly coated with the flavorful marinade. Let the shrimp sit for about 5 minutes to absorb the spices.
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a standard baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and to add a touch of richness to the dish.
- Assemble the Dish
- Spread the marinated shrimp evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cubed butter on top, ensuring a few pieces are tucked between the shrimp for even distribution. Nestle fresh thyme sprigs among the shrimp for an aromatic touch.
- Bake the Shrimp
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the shrimp turn a bright pink color and are tender to the touch. About halfway through the cooking time, gently stir the shrimp to ensure they’re evenly coated with the sauce and spices.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Once the shrimp are cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve the shrimp hot, garnished with additional thyme or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy as an appetizer, snack, or part of a larger meal.
Notes
- Adjusting the Heat: If you’re not a fan of intense spice, reduce the number of scotch bonnet peppers or use milder peppers like jalapeños. You can also serve the shrimp with a cooling dip, like a yogurt or sour cream-based sauce.
- Homemade Pepper Sauce: For a more personalized touch, make your own scotch bonnet pepper sauce at home. Blend scotch bonnet peppers with garlic, lime juice, vinegar, and a touch of sugar for a fresh, tangy sauce.
- Cooking Time: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque.
- Butter Alternatives: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes