Ingredients

  • 2/3 c. vegetable oil
  • 1 3/4 c. thinly sliced scallions
  • 1/2 c. chopped green pepper
  • 3 Tbsp. finely minced fresh parsley
  • 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce
  • 1 Tbsp. minced chives
  • 4 whole bay leaves, crushed
  • 2 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. cayenne
  • 1/4 tsp. chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp. dried basil
  • 4 tsp. fresh lemon juice
  • 2 lb. whole fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • boiled white rice
  • 1/2 c. flour
  • 1/3 c. celery
  • 1 c. chopped onion
  • 4 tsp. finely minced garlic
  • 1 lb. can Italian style whole peeled tomatoes, drained
  • 4 Tbsp. dry red wine
  • 6 whole allspice
  • 2 whole cloves
  • 3/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp. mace
  • 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
  • 2 c. water

Method

  • In a heavy 6 to 8-quart pot, heat the oil and gradually add the flour, stirring constantly.
  • Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until a medium brown roux, the color of rich peanut butter, is formed.
  • Remove from the heat and add the fresh vegetables and parsley.
  • Mix well with the roux, then return to low heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the vegetables begin to brown.
  • Mix in the canned tomatoes and tomato sauce, then add the chives, wine, seasonings and lemon juice and mix again.
  • Raise the heat under the pan and bring to a low boil.
  • Add the water and mix thoroughly.
  • When the mixture boils up again, reduce the heat and simmer for 45 minutes.
  • Add the shrimp and allow to come to a low boil again, then cover, reduce the heat slightly and simmer for 20 minutes.
  • Remove the pot from the burner and allow to stand, covered, at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving.
  • Serve over boiled rice.
  • Serves 4.
  • This takes time to prepare, but it is worth the effort.
  • When you try it, you will be transported to the Crescent City, New Orleans.