Low Country Boil in a Bowl

I love Coastal Living magazine.  I love the ocean views, the beach-y cottages, and the regional recipes containing all varieties of fish and seafood.  So when I saw this recipe, last November, I knew that I had to try it.  I tore the page from the magazine and, as a reminder, placed it on top of my little jewelry armoire in the closet where I would see it every day.  And I did see it every day.  And when I would look at it I thought, gee, that really looks good, I should make this.  But I didn’t.  The recipe sat there for so long that eventually I had to dust it.  Twice.  Finally, growing weary of the dusting and the guilt, I purchased the needed ingredients (read: shrimp) and made it.  What took me so long?!  This is delicious!

 Now I made a few changes based upon what I had on hand and my personal/quirky preferences.

1.  I always substitute Melissa’s Fire Roasted Sweet Red Bell Peppers in place of fresh red peppers.  I find fresh peppers almost always overwhelm rather than compliment, plus I wanted the smoky taste.

2.  I used frozen corn kernels over fresh, and chose Trader Joe’s (Trader Jose’s) Fire Roasted Corn.  I have become completely enamored of this lately and have been adding it to everything.

3.  I did not have potatoes, so eliminated them completely.  I did not miss them; you may.  Instead I grabbed one of the containers of rice that I keep in the freezer (leftover from other dishes), warmed it, and placed a mound in the center of the bowl over which I poured the soup/stew.

4.  My seafood seasoning of choice is Old Bay, so that is what I used.

5.  I’ve been adding a few drops of hot sauce to everything savory this summer, so added about 4 drops of Crystal Hot sauce.

This recipe is easy, delicious, and delightfully seasonal.  Do give it a try. 

This post is linked to:

Totally Tasty Tuesdays

Try a New Recipe Tuesday

Seasonal Sundays