This is a deliciously warm and comforting stew that's perfect for any season. With the savory flavors of shrimp and feta cheese, and the rich tomato base, this stew is a culinary delight. The dish is easy to prepare, and the ingredients are relatively simple. Yet, the result is a robust and flavorful stew that will surely impress your guests.
The most unique ingredients in this recipe are the large shrimp and feta cheese. While most supermarkets stock shrimp, it's crucial to choose fresh, large-sized ones to ensure the best flavor and texture. Fresh shrimp lend a sweet, slightly briny flavor that adds depth to the stew. Feta cheese, a Greek cheese variety, is tangy and salty, which contrasts beautifully with the sweet shrimp and rich tomato base. If feta cheese is unavailable, a good substitute would be crumbled goat cheese or cubed mozzarella.
Ingredients for Shrimp and Feta Stew
Olive oil: Adds a rich, fruity flavor to the dish and enhances the taste of the other ingredients.
Onion: Provides a sweet and savory base for the stew.
Garlic: Adds a deep, aromatic flavor.
Diced tomatoes: The foundation of the stew, adding a rich and tangy taste.
Dry white wine: Adds depth and complexity to the stew's flavor.
Dried oregano: Infuses the stew with a herbal note.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the stew.
Large shrimp: The star ingredient, which adds a sweet and slightly briny flavor.
Fresh ground black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and enhances the flavors.
Feta cheese: Adds a tangy and salty element to contrast with the sweetness of the shrimp.
Flat leaf parsley: Brightens up the dish and adds a burst of fresh flavor.
One reader, Bailey Christenson says:
This shrimp and feta stew recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The shrimp is perfectly cooked, and the feta adds a delightful creaminess. It's a must-try for anyone who loves seafood. I highly recommend it!
Key Techniques for Mastering Shrimp and Feta Stew
How to prepare the stew: This involves sautéing the onions and garlic, then adding the tomatoes, wine, and seasonings, and finally simmering the shrimp in the stew until they are cooked through.
How to devein and peel shrimp: To devein the shrimp, make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp and remove the dark vein. To peel, gently pull off the shell, starting from the legs and working towards the tail.
How to crumble feta cheese: Use a fork to crumble the feta cheese into small pieces, ensuring an even distribution throughout the stew.
How to garnish with parsley: Finely chop the parsley and sprinkle it over the finished stew just before serving to add a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
How To Make Shrimp-and-Feta Stew
Cooked in wine and tomato sauce, this shrimp and feta stew brims with signature Greek flavors from tangy cheese and pungent oregano taste.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ¼cupolive oil
- 1onion
- 2clovesgarlic
- 3cupsdiced tomatoes with their liquid,(29 oz)
- 1cupdry white wine
- 1tspdried oregano
- 1½tspsalt
- 1¾lbslarge shrimp
- ¼tspfresh ground black pepper
- ¼lbfeta cheese
- 4tbspflat leaf parsley,chopped
Instructions
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In a large saucepan, heat the oil over moderately low heat.
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Add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until translucent.
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Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds longer.
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Raise the heat to moderate and add the tomatoes with their liquid, the wine, oregano, and salt.
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Bring to a boil and cook over moderate heat, partially covered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
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Add the shrimp and pepper and bring back to a simmer.
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Simmer for about 2 minutes, covered, until the shrimp are just done.
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Stir in the cheese and 3 tablespoons of the parsley.
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Serve topped with the remaining 1 tablespoon parsley.
Nutrition
- Calories: 429.32kcal
- Fat: 22.07g
- Saturated Fat: 6.71g
- Trans Fat: 0.04g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 11.61g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.37g
- Carbohydrates: 14.68g
- Fiber: 4.26g
- Sugar: 7.70g
- Protein: 33.09g
- Cholesterol: 275.27mg
- Sodium: 1597.11mg
- Calcium: 331.69mg
- Potassium: 705.76mg
- Iron: 2.30mg
- Vitamin A: 194.86µg
- Vitamin C: 30.52mg
Expert Technique Tip for Elevating Your Shrimp and Feta Stew
When preparing the shrimp, ensure they are properly deveined and cleaned before adding them to the stew. This not only enhances the flavor but also ensures a better texture in the final dish. Additionally, be careful not to overcook the shrimp. They cook quickly and can become tough if left to simmer for too long. Aim for a firm yet tender consistency. Lastly, crumble the feta cheese instead of cutting it into chunks for a smoother, more evenly distributed flavor throughout the stew.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Shrimp and Feta Stew
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure out ingredients, and devein shrimp in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonder: Opt for a large, versatile pot or pan to minimize cleanup and simplify the cooking process.
Quick fix: Use pre-diced tomatoes and pre-peeled shrimp to cut down on prep time without sacrificing flavor.
Substitute Ingredients For Shrimp-and-Feta Stew Recipe
shrimp - Substitute with cubed firm tofu: Firm tofu can provide a similar texture and absorb the flavors of the stew.
feta cheese - Substitute with crumbled goat cheese: Goat cheese has a tangy flavor similar to feta and will add a creamy texture to the stew.
Presentation Tips for a Stunning Shrimp and Feta Stew
Elevate the plating: As a chef in a Top Chef scenario, presentation is key. Use a large, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the shrimp and feta stew. The contrast of the red tomatoes, pink shrimp, and white feta against the bowl will create a visually stunning presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving. The vibrant green color will add a pop of freshness and elevate the overall visual appeal of the dish.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Drizzle a swirl of high-quality olive oil over the stew just before serving. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also enhances the flavors of the dish.
Use elegant serving utensils: Opt for sleek and modern serving utensils to elevate the dining experience. Consider using minimalist tongs or ladles to serve the stew, adding a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Consider the placement of the feta: Instead of simply crumbling the feta over the stew, consider placing a few larger, more visually appealing chunks strategically on top of the shrimp. This will create an eye-catching focal point and add a sense of artistry to the dish.
Mindful portioning: Pay attention to portion sizes and ensure that each serving is meticulously arranged. The goal is to present a balanced and visually appealing dish that reflects the culinary expertise of a Top Chef.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the vibrant colors of the stew to shine. Avoid overcrowding the plate and let the dish speak for itself.
Attention to detail: Ensure that the rim of the bowl is clean and free of any spills or smudges. Attention to detail is crucial in presenting a dish that meets the standards of culinary professionals with 3 Michelin stars.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Shrimp and Feta Stew
- Large saucepan: A large, deep pan used for cooking stews, soups, and sauces.
- Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, blunt blade, used for mixing, spreading, and lifting.
- Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife with a broad blade, used for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
- Cutting board: A durable board used as a surface for cutting fruits, vegetables, and meats.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Utensils used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for recipes.
- Wooden spoon: A wooden cooking utensil used for stirring, mixing, and serving.
Storing and Freezing Guidelines for Shrimp and Feta Stew
Let the shrimp and feta stew cool down to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator or freezer. This will prevent the formation of harmful bacteria and ensure that the stew stays fresh for longer.
Transfer the cooled stew to an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. If using a container, make sure to leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of when the stew was made and how long it has been stored.
If storing in the refrigerator, the shrimp and feta stew will keep for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in the coldest part of the fridge, typically the back of the bottom shelf.
When ready to eat, reheat the stew gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through. Avoid boiling the stew, as this can cause the shrimp to become tough and rubbery.
If freezing the stew, it will maintain its best quality for about 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer the frozen stew to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can thaw the stew in the microwave using the defrost setting.
Once thawed, reheat the stew in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through. If the stew appears too thick after thawing, you can add a little water or white wine to thin it out to your desired consistency.
For best results, consume the thawed and reheated stew within 2 days. Do not refreeze the stew once it has been thawed, as this can affect its texture and quality.
How to Reheat Leftover Shrimp and Feta Stew
Reheat the shrimp and feta stew in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a simmer and the shrimp are heated through. This method ensures that the flavors meld together and the shrimp remain tender without overcooking.
If you prefer a quicker reheating method, transfer the leftover stew to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the stew is heated through and the shrimp are warm. Be careful not to overheat, as the shrimp may become rubbery.
For a more flavorful twist, reheat the stew in a saucepan over medium heat and add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to help revive the flavors. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has reduced slightly and the stew is heated through.
If you want to give your leftover stew a fresh taste, reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat and add some freshly chopped parsley, dill, or basil during the last minute of cooking. These herbs will brighten up the flavors and give the dish a new dimension.
For a creamy twist, reheat the stew in a saucepan over medium heat and stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving. This will add a tangy richness to the dish and help balance out the flavors of the tomatoes and feta cheese.
Interesting Trivia About Shrimp and Feta Stew
The shrimp and feta stew recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of juicy shrimp, tangy feta cheese, and aromatic herbs. This Mediterranean-inspired stew is a great source of lean protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients. It's a perfect dish for seafood lovers and those looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Enjoying this dish can be a delightful way to incorporate seafood into your diet, providing a variety of health benefits. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this shrimp and feta stew is sure to impress your guests with its rich flavors and textures.
Budget-Friendly: Is Shrimp and Feta Stew Economical?
This shrimp and feta stew recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of shrimp and feta cheese may increase the overall cost, but the dish's flavor and nutritional value make it worth the investment. The combination of tomatoes, olive oil, and herbs adds depth without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $30-$35. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its taste, versatility, and balance of cost and quality.
Is This Shrimp and Feta Stew Recipe Healthy?
This shrimp and feta stew recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-rich ingredients like tomatoes, onions, garlic, and shrimp, which provide vitamins, minerals, and lean protein. The use of olive oil as the cooking fat is also beneficial, as it contains healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. However, the recipe also contains a significant amount of salt and feta cheese, which can contribute to high sodium levels. Additionally, the white wine adds extra calories and sugar to the dish.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe, as the feta cheese already provides a salty flavor
- Use a low-sodium or no-salt-added variety of diced tomatoes to further reduce the sodium content
- Opt for a whole grain or legume-based side dish, such as quinoa or lentils, to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the meal
- Incorporate additional vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, to boost the vitamin and mineral content
- Use a reduced-fat feta cheese to lower the overall fat and calorie content of the dish
- Serve smaller portions of the stew and pair it with a larger serving of vegetables or a side salad to create a more balanced meal
Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on This Shrimp and Feta Stew Recipe
This shrimp and feta stew recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of fresh ingredients like garlic, tomatoes, and shrimp, along with the addition of feta cheese, creates a rich and savory stew. The cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and elegant. The addition of white wine adds a subtle depth to the stew, making it a perfect choice for a special dinner. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful showcase of Mediterranean flavors and is sure to impress anyone who tries it.
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Why trust this Shrimp-and-Feta Stew Recipe:
This recipe is a testament to the flavors of the Mediterranean, combining the succulent shrimp with the rich tang of feta cheese. The use of olive oil and garlic infuses the stew with a depth of flavor, while the addition of tomatoes and oregano brings a burst of freshness. The incorporation of white wine adds a touch of sophistication to the dish. With these high-quality ingredients, this stew promises to deliver a harmonious blend of savory and zesty notes, making it a trustworthy and delightful addition to any culinary repertoire.
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