Drunken Shameless Spicy Shrimp (Dinosaur BBQ)

My first encounter with these fiery shrimp was at a bustling summer barbecue in Syracuse, New York, not far from the original Dinosaur BBQ. The air was thick with the aroma of wood smoke and grilling meats, but it was the vibrant, almost neon-pink shrimp piled high on a platter that caught my eye. One bite, and I was hooked. The initial sweetness of the shrimp gave way to a slow-burning heat that lingered long after I’d devoured the last morsel, leaving me craving more of that unapologetically bold flavor. It was an experience, not just a dish, and one I’ve been chasing ever since.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 minutes
• Total Time: 12 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Pescatarian

Ingredients

• 2 (16 ounce) bottles beer (or 12 oz cans)
• ½ cup cider vinegar
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons Old Bay Seasoning
• 2 lbs shrimp, in shell, large
• 2 tablespoons garlic, pressed (or garlic powder, to taste)
• 2 tablespoons creole seasoning (use Cajun Foreplay if possible)
• Dinosaur BBQ Seafood Cocktail Sauce (for serving)

Equipment Needed

• Large pot
• Colander

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the beer, cider vinegar, water, and Old Bay Seasoning. Place the pot over medium-high heat and cover.

2. Bring the mixture to a rapid boil. Once boiling rapidly, add the shrimp. Cover the pot again and cook for 2 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are just opaque. It’s crucial not to overcook them, as they will become rubbery.

3. Drain the shrimp in a colander. Immediately cover them with a layer of ice to chill them quickly and stop the cooking process. This ensures they remain tender and prevents them from continuing to cook from residual heat.

4. Once the shrimp are cooled, transfer them to a bowl. Add the pressed garlic and creole seasoning. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.

5. Cover the bowl and chill the shrimp thoroughly in the refrigerator until serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more complex and satisfying taste. The longer they chill, the better they become!

6. Serve the Drunken Shameless Spicy Shrimp chilled with Dinosaur BBQ Seafood Cocktail Sauce.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Spice Level Adjustment: The heat in this recipe comes primarily from the creole seasoning. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with a smaller amount of seasoning and add more to taste. For those who want an extra kick, a dash of cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added.
• Shell-On vs. Peeled: Cooking the shrimp in their shells helps to retain moisture and flavor. However, if you prefer peeled shrimp, you can use them, but be mindful that they will cook faster. Reduce the cooking time accordingly.
• Garlic Flavor: Freshly pressed garlic offers the most intense flavor. However, if you’re short on time, garlic powder can be used as a substitute. Start with a teaspoon and add more to taste.
• Make-Ahead Marvel: This dish is perfect for making ahead of time. The shrimp can be cooked, chilled, and seasoned up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, the flavors intensify as they sit, making it even more delicious.
• Brining: For extra juicy shrimp, consider brining them for 30 minutes before cooking. A simple brine of salt, sugar, and water can work wonders.
• Cajun Foreplay: The recipe calls for Cajun Foreplay if you can find it. If you can’t find it, look for a Cajun seasoning blend that includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, white pepper, oregano, and thyme.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Drunken Shameless Spicy Shrimp chilled, preferably on a bed of crushed ice, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh parsley. The Dinosaur BBQ Seafood Cocktail Sauce is a must-have accompaniment, providing a tangy counterpoint to the spicy shrimp.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be aware that the shrimp may become slightly firmer over time. Reheating is not recommended, as it can make the shrimp rubbery. It’s best to enjoy them cold. Do not leave the shrimp at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	339 kcal	17%
Total Fat	2.5 g	3%
Saturated Fat	0.7 g	4%
Cholesterol	442 mg	147%
Sodium	522 mg	22%
Total Carbohydrate	10.1 g	4%
Dietary Fiber	0.1 g	0%
Sugars	0.2 g	0%
Protein	48.7 g	97%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Beer Alternatives: If you prefer not to use beer, you can substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth. This will still provide a flavorful base for the poaching liquid.
• Spicy Level Adjustment: For those who prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of creole seasoning or use a milder seasoning blend. You can also add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the marinade to balance the heat.
• Lemon-Lime Twist: Add the zest and juice of a lemon and a lime to the poaching liquid for a citrusy twist.
• Herbal Infusion: Infuse the poaching liquid with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for an added layer of flavor.
• Grilled Shrimp: For a smoky variation, grill the shrimp instead of poaching them. Marinate them in the beer and spice mixture for at least 30 minutes, then grill them over medium heat until cooked through.
• Vegetarian “Shrimp”: Use hearts of palm to replace the shrimp for a creative vegetarian take. Prepare the poaching liquid and seasoning as directed, then marinate the hearts of palm before serving.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture for better seasoning adhesion.

Q: How do I know when the shrimp are cooked properly?
A: Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will become rubbery. The cooking time is very short, usually around 2 minutes.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, this dish is perfect for making ahead. The shrimp can be cooked, chilled, and seasoned up to 24 hours in advance. The flavors intensify as they sit.

Q: What if I can’t find Dinosaur BBQ Seafood Cocktail Sauce?
A: You can use any seafood cocktail sauce that you enjoy. Alternatively, you can make your own by combining ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce.

Q: Can I use different types of shrimp?
A: Yes, you can use different sizes of shrimp. However, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Smaller shrimp will cook faster than larger shrimp.

Final Thoughts

This Drunken Shameless Spicy Shrimp recipe is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. It’s a celebration of bold flavors and a testament to the power of simple ingredients. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the spice levels and make it your own. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your feedback. It’s the perfect appetizer for a summer barbecue, a game-day gathering, or any occasion that calls for a little bit of culinary adventure. Pair it with a crisp, cold beer or a refreshing margarita for the ultimate flavor combination. Enjoy!