Creamy and flavorful Cajun shrimp risotto made quickly in the Instant Pot

4 stars
4.13 (15)
Creamy and flavorful Cajun shrimp risotto made quickly in the Instant Pot
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
25 mins
Total Time:
35mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on December 01, 2023

This incredible Instant Pot Cajun Shrimp Risotto is a creamy and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp, creamy risotto, and a spicy kick of Cajun seasoning. The Instant Pot makes it easy to cook risotto without constant stirring and results in perfectly cooked grains of rice. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner or for impressing guests with its delicious flavors. Serve it as a main course or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

  1. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with the Cajun seasoning until well coated. Set aside.
  2. Select the sauté function on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 2 minutes.
  3. Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat with the oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the rice is slightly toasted.
  4. Pour in the white wine and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  5. Add the broth to the pot and give everything a good stir. Cancel the sauté function.
  6. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure the valve is set to the sealing position. Select the manual/pressure cook function and set the timer for 6 minutes.
  7. Once the cooking time is complete, allow a natural release for 5 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
  8. Remove the lid and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and butter until melted and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  9. Add the seasoned shrimp to the pot, secure the lid again, and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the sauté function and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
  10. Serve the Cajun shrimp risotto hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Interesting Facts

  • Cajun cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors, influenced by the French-speaking Acadian population of Louisiana.
  • Using the Instant Pot ensures that the risotto cooks evenly and perfectly, without the need for constant stirring.
  • Arborio rice is the best type of rice to use for risotto, as it releases starches that create a creamy texture.
  • Cajun seasoning typically includes a mix of spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.