Description
This Instant Pot Cajun Pepper Shrimp recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to enjoy spicy, succulent shrimp cooked to perfection with vibrant bell peppers and Cajun seasoning. Ready in just 20 minutes, it's perfect for a weeknight dinner that delivers bold Cajun flavors using the convenience of pressure cooking.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or avocado, sunflower, corn oil)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound (450 grams) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 3 small bell peppers (yellow, green, and red), diced
- ¼ cup vegetable stock (or chicken stock)
- Chopped fresh parsley (or cilantro) for garnish
Instructions
- Saute aromatics: Turn on the Instant Pot by pressing the SAUTE function and allow it to heat up for about a minute. Add the vegetable oil, then sauté the diced onion until it becomes soft and translucent, roughly 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Once done, switch off the SAUTE mode and deglaze the pot by adding a small amount of water, scraping the bottom to lift any browned bits.
- Add main ingredients: Add the diced bell peppers into the pot, followed by the raw shrimp. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pour in the vegetable or chicken stock. Stir all ingredients thoroughly to combine and distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Pressure cook shrimp: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the vent to the SEALING position. Select the PRESSURE COOK or MANUAL mode, set the cooking time to 0 minutes at LOW pressure. This allows the Instant Pot to come to pressure and instantly stop cooking, perfectly cooking the shrimp without overcooking.
- Release pressure and serve: When the cooking program ends, perform a quick release by carefully turning the vent to VENTING to release the steam. Open the lid safely once all pressure is released. Garnish the shrimp and peppers with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve warm over cooked rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Using 0 minutes on low pressure in the Instant Pot gently cooks the shrimp to prevent toughness.
- Feel free to substitute the bell peppers with your favorite vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes.
- If you prefer more heat, increase the chili flakes or add hot sauce after cooking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
- Serve over rice or cauliflower rice for a gluten-free option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Cajun