New Orleans BBQ shrimp. The name itself conjures images of saucy, succulent shrimp swimming in a rich, buttery, and slightly spicy sauce, ready to be devoured with gusto. But what transforms this iconic dish into a complete and unforgettable meal? The answer lies in the sides. Selecting the right accompaniments is crucial to balancing the richness of the shrimp and elevating the entire dining experience. This article explores the best side dishes that complement New Orleans BBQ shrimp, offering a guide to creating a harmonious and truly satisfying meal.
The Foundation: Bread and Grains
The very essence of enjoying New Orleans BBQ shrimp lies in its sauce. The sheer volume of the flavorful liquid begs for something to soak it up. Therefore, bread is not merely a side; it’s an essential tool for enjoying every last drop of that delicious sauce.
French Bread: The Classic Choice
When it comes to soaking up that iconic sauce, nothing beats a crusty loaf of French bread. Its slightly chewy texture and subtle flavor profile provide the perfect canvas for the bold flavors of the shrimp. The crisp crust gives way to a soft interior, making it ideal for dipping and scooping. Look for a loaf with a good crumb structure that can withstand the saucy onslaught. Don’t be afraid to tear off large chunks and get your hands dirty; that’s part of the experience!
Garlic Bread: An Aromatic Enhancement
Taking the bread game up a notch, garlic bread offers an aromatic and flavorful twist. The garlic complements the spices in the BBQ shrimp, adding another layer of complexity to the meal. Whether you opt for a classic butter-garlic spread or a more elaborate herb-infused version, garlic bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Rice: A Neutral Canvas
While bread is the traditional choice, rice provides a lighter and more versatile alternative. Plain white rice, such as long-grain or jasmine rice, acts as a neutral base, allowing the flavors of the shrimp to shine through. Rice also works well for those who prefer a gluten-free option.
Grits: A Southern Staple
For a truly authentic Southern experience, consider serving your New Orleans BBQ shrimp with creamy, cheesy grits. The rich and savory flavors of the grits complement the shrimp beautifully, creating a decadent and satisfying combination.
Fresh and Vibrant: Salads and Vegetables
To cut through the richness of the BBQ shrimp, a fresh and vibrant salad or vegetable dish is a welcome addition. These lighter options provide a refreshing contrast and help balance the meal.
Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
The peppery bite of arugula pairs perfectly with the richness of the shrimp. A simple lemon vinaigrette adds a touch of acidity, brightening the flavors and cleansing the palate. Consider adding shaved Parmesan cheese or toasted pine nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Cucumber and Tomato Salad
A classic combination, cucumber and tomato salad offers a refreshing and hydrating side. The cool cucumbers and juicy tomatoes provide a counterpoint to the warm, spicy shrimp. A simple vinaigrette or a creamy dressing will complete the dish.
Roasted Asparagus
Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness and creates a slightly smoky flavor. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper are all you need to create a simple yet elegant side dish. The tender asparagus spears offer a pleasant textural contrast to the shrimp.
Coleslaw: A Creamy Contrast
A creamy coleslaw provides a cool and refreshing contrast to the spicy shrimp. Opt for a classic coleslaw recipe with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a mayonnaise-based dressing.
Hearty and Flavorful: Potatoes and More
For those seeking a more substantial side dish, potatoes offer a hearty and satisfying option. Their versatility allows for various preparations, each complementing the New Orleans BBQ shrimp in its unique way.
Roasted Potatoes with Herbs
Roasted potatoes are a simple and comforting side that pairs well with almost anything. Toss potato wedges with olive oil, herbs (such as rosemary and thyme), salt, and pepper, then roast them until golden brown and crispy.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy Comfort
Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting and indulgent side dish. Whether you prefer classic mashed potatoes with butter and cream or a more adventurous version with roasted garlic or herbs, mashed potatoes are sure to be a hit.
Sweet Potato Fries
For a touch of sweetness, consider serving sweet potato fries alongside your New Orleans BBQ shrimp. Their slightly sweet flavor complements the spices in the sauce, creating a delightful contrast.
Corn on the Cob: A Summertime Classic
During the summer months, corn on the cob is a perfect accompaniment to New Orleans BBQ shrimp. Grilled or boiled, corn on the cob offers a sweet and juicy addition to the meal.
Enhancing the Experience: Condiments and Garnishes
While the sides provide the foundation of the meal, certain condiments and garnishes can elevate the experience even further. These small additions can add pops of flavor, texture, and visual appeal.
Lemon Wedges
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors of the shrimp and adds a touch of acidity. Lemon wedges are a simple yet effective garnish that enhances the overall dining experience.
Hot Sauce
For those who enjoy a bit of extra heat, a dash of hot sauce can take your New Orleans BBQ shrimp to the next level. Choose a hot sauce that complements the flavors of the sauce, such as a Louisiana-style hot sauce or a vinegar-based hot sauce.
Chopped Parsley
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal to the dish. Parsley also provides a subtle herbaceous flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Green Onions
Thinly sliced green onions add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the dish. They can be sprinkled over the shrimp or used as a garnish for the sides.
Pairing with Drinks: Complementing the Flavors
Choosing the right drinks to accompany your New Orleans BBQ shrimp can further enhance the dining experience. Consider these options:
Crisp White Wine
A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the shrimp. The acidity of the wine cuts through the butter and spice, cleansing the palate.
Light-Bodied Red Wine
For red wine lovers, a light-bodied red wine, such as Beaujolais or Pinot Noir, can also pair well with New Orleans BBQ shrimp. Choose a wine with bright fruit flavors and low tannins.
Iced Tea
A refreshing glass of iced tea is a classic Southern beverage that pairs well with New Orleans BBQ shrimp. Sweetened or unsweetened, iced tea provides a cool and refreshing contrast to the spicy and savory flavors of the dish.
Local Craft Beer
Explore local craft beers that complement the flavors of the dish. A pale ale or a lighter IPA can work well, providing a hoppy bitterness that balances the richness of the sauce.
Building Your Perfect Plate: A Guide
Creating the perfect plate of New Orleans BBQ shrimp and sides is all about balance and personal preference. Consider these suggestions:
Start with a generous portion of New Orleans BBQ shrimp, ensuring plenty of sauce.
Add a slice of crusty French bread or a scoop of rice to soak up the sauce.
Include a fresh salad or vegetable dish to provide a refreshing contrast.
Consider a hearty potato side for a more substantial meal.
Garnish with lemon wedges, chopped parsley, and a dash of hot sauce (if desired).
Remember that the best sides are the ones that you enjoy the most. Experiment with different combinations and find what works best for your palate. The key is to create a meal that is balanced, flavorful, and satisfying. The possibilities are endless, and the journey of culinary exploration is part of the fun!
Ultimately, the best side dishes for New Orleans BBQ shrimp are those that complement the rich, buttery, and spicy flavors of the dish. Bread is an absolute must for soaking up the delicious sauce, while fresh salads and vegetables provide a refreshing contrast. Hearty potatoes offer a more substantial option, and condiments and garnishes add pops of flavor and visual appeal. By carefully selecting your sides, you can transform New Orleans BBQ shrimp into a truly unforgettable meal. Enjoy!
What makes New Orleans BBQ Shrimp unique and different from other BBQ shrimp dishes?
New Orleans BBQ Shrimp is not your typical barbecue. It’s not smoked or grilled. Instead, it’s shrimp cooked in a decadent sauce of butter, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, herbs, and spices. This creates a rich, peppery, and slightly tangy flavor profile that’s utterly unique to New Orleans cuisine, requiring sides that can complement its robust nature.
The dish is traditionally served shell-on, encouraging diners to peel the shrimp and sop up every last bit of that incredible sauce with bread or suitable sides. The abundance of sauce and the need for dipping differentiates it from drier BBQ preparations found elsewhere.
Why is bread often suggested as a side for New Orleans BBQ Shrimp?
Bread, especially crusty French bread, is the quintessential accompaniment to New Orleans BBQ Shrimp. The rich, buttery sauce begs to be soaked up, and the bread serves as the perfect vessel to do so. The crusty exterior provides a nice textural contrast to the tender shrimp.
The simple, neutral flavor of the bread doesn’t compete with the complex flavors of the shrimp. It acts as a blank canvas, allowing you to fully appreciate the dish’s signature blend of butter, garlic, and spices.
What are some starchy alternatives to bread for soaking up the sauce?
While bread is classic, creamy grits are a fantastic alternative. The smooth texture and slightly sweet flavor of grits provide a lovely counterpoint to the peppery shrimp and the grits will absorb the flavorful sauce beautifully. Polenta, similarly, can work well.
Rice, especially a long-grain variety, also offers a great way to enjoy the sauce. Consider a simple, well-cooked rice, or a rice pilaf with herbs to complement the shrimp’s seasonings.
What vegetables pair well with New Orleans BBQ Shrimp?
Steamed or roasted asparagus spears offer a clean, slightly bitter counterpoint to the richness of the shrimp. The bright green color also adds visual appeal to the plate. Another excellent choice is a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
Grilled corn on the cob, especially when brushed with a little butter and herbs, brings a touch of sweetness that balances the spice. Sautéed green beans, seasoned with garlic and a squeeze of lemon, can also complement the dish beautifully.
What type of salad complements the richness of New Orleans BBQ Shrimp?
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is an excellent choice to cut through the richness of the shrimp. Opt for mixed greens, such as romaine and butter lettuce, and add a few crunchy elements like cucumber or bell pepper for textural contrast.
Avoid heavy dressings that might compete with the complex flavors of the shrimp. A lemon-herb vinaigrette or a simple balsamic vinaigrette works well, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, buttery sauce.
Can you suggest a beverage pairing that enhances the flavors of New Orleans BBQ Shrimp?
A crisp, dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, is an excellent choice. The acidity cuts through the richness of the butter sauce, while the citrusy notes complement the shrimp and spices. A light-bodied beer, like a Pilsner or a light lager, can also be a refreshing pairing.
For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime can be a great palate cleanser. Alternatively, an iced tea with a hint of mint can provide a refreshing and complementary flavor profile.
Are there any side dishes to avoid when serving New Orleans BBQ Shrimp?
Avoid sides that are overly rich or heavy, as they can overwhelm the palate. Creamy potato dishes, such as mashed potatoes with excessive butter or cream, might be too much. Also, steer clear of sides with strong, competing flavors, such as spicy salsa or strongly seasoned rice dishes.
Sweet sides, like candied yams or overly sweet coleslaw, can clash with the savory flavors of the shrimp. Focus on simple, clean flavors that complement, rather than compete with, the star of the show.