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I discovered shrimp butter at my grandmother's bridge party years ago and have been making it ever since. That perfect blend of sweet shrimp creamy butter and fresh herbs spread on a crispy cracker takes me right back to her kitchen. Now it's my go to party appetizer that always has people asking for the recipe.
What Makes This Special
Every bite brings that perfect balance of rich butter tender shrimp and bright herbs. Takes just a few ingredients but creates something that feels fancy enough for special occasions while being simple enough for casual gatherings. Plus you can make it ahead which is always a win when entertaining.
Your Shopping List
- The Stars: Fresh plump shrimp good quality unsalted butter like Kerrygold makes all the difference.
- Fresh Stuff: Bright lemon for zest and juice parsley and dill for color and flavor.
- Extra Magic: Worcestershire sauce adds depth celery seed brings that subtle spice.
- For Serving: Your favorite crackers baguette slices maybe some fresh lemon wedges.
Let's Make It
- Start With Onions
- Soak those finely minced onions in ice water takes away the bite keeps the flavor.
- Cook Your Shrimp
- Quick boil in salted water until pink and perfect cool them down pat them dry.
- Make It Smooth
- Chop those shrimp super fine or pulse them in your food processor if you've got one.
- Bring It Together
- Beat that soft butter until creamy mix in shrimp herbs lemon everything good.
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Kitchen Secrets
Get those shrimp really dry before mixing nobody wants watery butter. Room temperature butter mixes easier spreads better. Good quality everything makes a difference here especially the shrimp and butter. Give it time to chill lets all those flavors get friendly.
Serve It Right
Set it out with different crackers let people choose their favorite. Try it on warm pasta turns into an instant sauce. Some mornings I spread it on toast top with eggs pure heaven. Don't forget a glass of bubbly alongside makes everything feel special.
Save Some For Later
Keeps good in the fridge about a week perfect for making ahead. Want to freeze it? Roll it into a log wrap it tight slice what you need later. Just let it come back to room temperature before serving spreads like a dream that way.
Mix It Up
Try different herbs chives or tarragon bring new flavors. Add some heat with cayenne or smoked paprika. Switch lemon for lime makes it tropical. No shrimp? Roasted red peppers make a great vegetarian version.
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Make It Yours
Mix in some crab meat for extra luxury. Add sun dried tomatoes or capers when you want more punch. Stir in cream cheese makes it perfect for dipping. That's what cooking is about taking a recipe and making it sing your own tune.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long can I store shrimp butter?
- You can store it in the fridge for up to 1 week in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 1 month wrapped in plastic as a log.
- → Why do we soak the onions in water?
- Soaking onions in cold water helps mellow their sharp flavor. This step ensures the onions don't overpower the delicate shrimp taste.
- → Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
- Fresh shrimp is best for this recipe. Cooking them with shells on gives the best flavor, but you can use peeled shrimp if needed.
- → How do I serve shrimp butter?
- Let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. It's best spread on crackers or crusty bread as an appetizer.
- → Can I make this ahead for a party?
- Yes, you can make it several days ahead and keep it in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze it for up to a month. Just remember to let it soften before serving.