Shrimp scampi is a timeless dish, beloved for its balance of flavors and quick preparation. If you’re seeking a method to ensure perfectly cooked, juicy shrimp every time, sous vide cooking might just be your new best friend. This precise cooking technique guarantees consistency while enhancing the rich flavors of this classic dish.
With a little preparation and the magic of sous vide, you can create a scampi that rivals your favorite restaurant’s version. Ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients for Perfect Sous Vide Shrimp Scampi
- Essential Ingredients
- 6 large shrimp: peeled and deveined, tails left on
- 2 tablespoons sweet butter: unsalted
- 2 tablespoons white wine: such as chardonnay
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dehydrated onions: ground
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: or to taste
- 1 clove garlic: minced
- Optional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon sweet butter: unsalted
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs: preferably panko
- 1-2 pinches dried oregano
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese: for topping
How to Make Sous Vide Shrimp Scampi
Step 1: Prep and Prepare
Before diving in, make sure you have a sous vide machine ready to go.
If using frozen shrimp, defrost them beforehand for best results. While sous vide can cook shrimp straight from frozen, this recipe’s temperature and time are calibrated for defrosted shrimp.
Gather all your ingredients—mise en place is key to smooth cooking.
Step 2: Set Up Your Sous Vide
Place your sous vide machine in a pot of water and set it to 135°F (57°C).
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine butter, white wine, lemon juice, dehydrated onions, black pepper, and minced garlic. Heat gently until the mixture begins to simmer.
Let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes, then remove from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature, about 20 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare the Shrimp
Place the shrimp and cooled sauce into a resealable plastic bag (such as a Ziploc). Remove as much air as possible by using the water displacement method or a vacuum sealer.
Clip the bag to the side of your sous vide pot and cook for 35 minutes.
Optional Step: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping
If you’re adding the breadcrumb topping, melt the butter in a small pan and stir in the breadcrumbs. Toast until golden brown, about 3–5 minutes. Set aside.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Once the shrimp have finished cooking, transfer them and the sauce to an ovenproof dish.
If you’re using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the shrimp, then broil for 2–3 minutes, until the shrimp are lightly browned. Be careful not to overcook!
Step 6: Plate and Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and finish with a sprinkle of oregano and freshly grated parmesan (if desired). Serve hot, accompanied by toast points or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Sous vide cooking transforms shrimp scampi into a foolproof culinary masterpiece, ensuring succulent shrimp every time. The gentle, even heat preserves the delicate texture of the shrimp while allowing the rich flavors of butter, garlic, and wine to infuse deeply.
Whether you stick to the essentials or elevate the dish with crunchy breadcrumbs and parmesan, this recipe is bound to impress. Serve it as a star appetizer or a satisfying main course—either way, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds.
Embrace the ease and precision of sous vide cooking and savor the results. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!
