Shrimp in Fennel-Pernod Sauce
Shrimp in Fennel-Pernod Sauce Recipe from Canada
Introduction
Shrimp in Fennel-Pernod Sauce is a delicious and elegant dish that combines the delicate flavors of shrimp with the aromatic notes of fennel and the subtle licorice flavor of Pernod. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner for two.
History
The origins of Shrimp in Fennel-Pernod Sauce can be traced back to French cuisine, where the combination of seafood, fennel, and Pernod is a classic flavor profile. This dish has been enjoyed for generations in France and has since become popular in many other parts of the world.
Ingredients
- 500 g shrimp (shell on)
- 15 ml butter
- 10 fennel seeds
- 1 shallot, minced
- 125 ml white wine
- 50 ml pernod
- salt and pepper
- 125 ml heavy cream
How to prepare
- Melt butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Add fennel seeds and shallot, and sauté until the shallot becomes translucent.
- Add wine, Pernod, and shrimp, and simmer just until the shrimp turn pink.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper, then add cream, and simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve as an appetizer or, accompanied by rice, as a main course.
Variations
- Add a pinch of saffron for a touch of luxury.
- Substitute the shrimp with scallops or white fish for a different twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- To devein the shrimp, make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp and remove the dark vein.
- Adjust the amount of Pernod to suit your taste preferences - a little goes a long way.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Shrimp in Fennel-Pernod Sauce over a bed of rice or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Garnish with fresh fennel fronds or chopped parsley for a pop of color.
Cooking Techniques
Sautéing, simmering
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have Pernod, you can use white wine or chicken broth as a substitute.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Cook the shrimp just before serving for the best texture.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Shrimp in Fennel-Pernod Sauce in individual bowls or on a platter for a stunning presentation. - Sprinkle with a pinch of paprika or smoked salt for an extra flavor boost.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
300 per serving
Carbohydrates
5g per serving
Fats
20g per serving
Proteins
25g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
Alergens
This dish contains shellfish and dairy.
Summary
Shrimp in Fennel-Pernod Sauce is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.
Summary
Shrimp in Fennel-Pernod Sauce is a sophisticated and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your guests. With its delicate balance of flavors and elegant presentation, this dish is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner at home. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Shrimp in Fennel-Pernod Sauce. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy little cottage by the sea. Maria was an incredible cook, and I always looked forward to our cooking adventures together.
On this particular day, Maria had a gleam in her eye as she pulled out a worn, stained recipe card from her collection. She handed it to me with a mysterious smile and said, "I think you're going to love this one, my dear."
I eagerly scanned the card, taking in the ingredients and instructions. Fennel bulbs, Pernod, fresh shrimp...it all sounded so exotic and delicious. I had never cooked with fennel or Pernod before, but I trusted Maria's taste and expertise. She had a way of making even the most complicated recipes seem effortless.
As we started prepping the ingredients, Maria began to tell me the story behind the recipe. She explained that she had learned it from an old French chef she had met while traveling through Provence many years ago. The chef had shared his secret recipe with her, and she had been making it ever since.
The scent of the fennel and Pernod filled the kitchen as we sautéed the shrimp in butter and garlic. The aroma was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish. Maria had a knack for combining flavors in unexpected ways, and I knew this dish would be no exception.
As we sat down to eat, the first bite of shrimp coated in the rich, anise-flavored sauce was pure heaven. The sweetness of the shrimp paired perfectly with the licorice notes of the fennel and Pernod. It was a symphony of flavors in my mouth, and I savored every bite.
From that day on, Shrimp in Fennel-Pernod Sauce became a staple in my culinary repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights at home with just my husband. Each time I cooked it, I thought of Maria and the French chef who had inspired her.
Over the years, I made a few tweaks to the recipe, adding a touch of lemon zest here, a pinch of red pepper flakes there. But the essence of the dish remained the same – a celebration of fresh, simple ingredients that came together in perfect harmony.
As I grew older and my grandchildren started asking me to teach them how to cook, Shrimp in Fennel-Pernod Sauce was always one of the first recipes I shared with them. I wanted to pass on not just the recipe itself, but the sense of wonder and joy that I had felt when I first tasted it.
Now, as I stand in my kitchen, surrounded by my grandchildren as they chop fennel and measure out Pernod, I can't help but smile. The tradition continues, the recipe lives on, and I know that one day they will pass it down to their own children.
I may have learned how to make Shrimp in Fennel-Pernod Sauce from Maria, but it has become so much more than just a recipe to me. It's a reminder of the power of food to connect us, to bring us together, and to create memories that last a lifetime. And for that, I am eternally grateful.
Categories
| Canadian Appetizers | Canadian Meat Dishes | Canadian Recipes | Fennel Seed Recipes | Heavy Cream Recipes | Pernod Recipes | Rice Recipes | Seafood Appetizer Recipes | Shrimp Recipes | White Wine Recipes |