For those who wonder what is the history of shrimp etouffee, the answer may lie not in history books or cookbooks, but in a legend of sorts that has been passed down by word of mouth from generation to generation for decades. The interesting thing about lore is that without much written word to back it up, it has a way of changing over the years while still being built on a common premise.
Today, much of the dish’s legacy can be found in Cajun and creole shrimp etouffee recipes, although these tend to be stored in the mind rather than a prized recipe book in the kitchen. Perhaps this is due to the pride chefs take in creating this traditional Cajun cuisine, and the fact that they do not want to share their personal “je ne sais quoi” for fear that their own unique version of shrimp etouffee will be duplicated.
What Is Shrimp Etouffee?
As French exiles from Canada began moving into the southern U.S., much of their culture and heritage was brought with them. This influence was evident in both their language and their delicious food.
For instance, etouffee is a French word that means smothered. This is probably why the shrimp that goes into this dish is prepared by being smothered rather than fried or baked. To smother shrimp that goes into an etouffee recipe is to cook it in an amazing roux-based mixture that typically consists of butter, and the Holy Trinity of onion, green bell pepper, and celery.
Thankfully, people in Houston are no longer forced to cross state lines to get a taste of this delicious Cajun dish. Shrimp etouffee can be enjoyed in restaurants across Texas’ Bayou City, where it is made by chefs that each have their own original take on the recipe.
How Shrimp Etouffee Became a Culinary Favorite
Since much of the tradition of etouffee has been passed down by word of mouth over the years, the history of this dish is largely based on hearsay. However, many historians agree that etouffee appeared in the 1950s in the Pelican State in the city of Breaux Bridge. Yet, according to lore, some historians believe the dish could have made an even earlier appearance in the 1920s at the Hebert Hotel. The Hebert family are thought to have shared their etouffee recipe with a woman who eventually opened RendezVous Café and put etouffee on the menu, where it became renowned dish.
Since that time, the dish has remained Cajun and creole in nature but has also become known as a southern seafood dish that is savory and heavy on flavor. Cajun shrimp etouffee is a culinary delight that is marked by its slow and steady preparation. It is made with a special roux, the holy trinity of vegetables, and a wonderful blend of spices. Then a delectable protein such as crawfish or grilled shrimp is added to round out the dish. Most restaurants serve etouffee over a bed of rice that pairs well with the other ingredients and leaves patrons feeling happy and satisfied.
Where Can I Get Shrimp Etouffee in Houston?
With the rich history of shrimp etouffee in mind, we wouldn’t be surprised if you are craving some right now. The good news is that any season is shrimp etouffee season. One of the perks of living in Houston is the warm weather we enjoy most of the year. Whether you plan on cooking etouffee at home, going out to eat, or picking up takeout to bring back home and enjoy with family and friends, 7Spice Cajun caters to all three of these options.
In true Cajun tradition, shrimp etouffee is best enjoyed amongst family and friends with plenty of chatter and drinks to keep the conversation flowing. For this reason, consider hosting your next family or friend get together and putting shrimp etouffee on the menu. This dish is an ideal takeout option and is perfect for serving a hungry crowd.
If reading about the history of shrimp etouffee is making you crave this delicious Cajun dish, make your way to one of our Houston locations for your next meal. We believe in Cajun food done right and invite you to try our amazing shrimp etouffee.