Recipe: Spicy Steamed Shrimp with Homemade Chesapeake Bay Seasoning

SPICY STEAMED SHRIMP WITH CHESAPEAKE BAY SPICES

"This method of cooking shrimp ensures finger-licking results-the shrimp must be peeled at the table, and the seasoning gets all over your fingers. Vary the steaming liquid according your mood. Many commercial seasoning blends are available, but I prefer to make my own, which is less salty than the supermarket versions. If necessary, grind whole spices in an electric coffee grinder. Use the seasoning in coatings for fried chicken and fish fillets, or in any steamed food, or-my favorite-sprinkled on buttered popcorn."

2 cups water, flat beer, or dry white wine
3 pounds medium shrimp
3 tablespoons Chesapeake Bay Seasoning (recipe follows)

Place a collapsible steamer basket in the bottom of a large pot. Add enough of the liquid to almost reach the bottom of the steamer. Bring to a boil over high heat. Add the shrimp in layers, sprinkling each layer with the seasoning. Cover tightly and cook until the shrimps turn pink and firm, about 3 minutes. Serve immediately.

CHESAPEAKE BAY SEASONING
Makes about 1/4 cup

Mix together:
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon ground celery seed
1 teaspoon sweet Hungarian paprika
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon ground bay leaf
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

The seasoning will keep indefinitely in a tightly covered container, stored at room temperature in a cool, dark place.

Makes 6 servings
Source: Simply Shrimp by Rick Rodgers