Henny Butter Shrimp is a flavorful and indulgent dish that combines the richness of shrimp with the smooth, luxurious taste of Hennessy (a brand of Cognac) and butter. This dish is a blend of sweet, savory, and slightly smoky flavors, with the Hennessy adding a unique depth to the sauce. It’s perfect for a special occasion or when you want to impress your guests with a fun, bold twist on a classic shrimp recipe.
Here’s how you can make Henny Butter Shrimp at home:
Henny Butter Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tbsp butter (unsalted)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) Hennessy (Cognac)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce for more depth)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
- If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This ensures they cook evenly and get a nice sear.
- Season the shrimp with a bit of salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the Shrimp:
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp cook very quickly.
- Once the shrimp are done, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
3. Make the Henny Butter Sauce:
- In the same pan, lower the heat to medium and melt 2 tbsp of butter.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Carefully pour in the Hennessy (Cognac). It may bubble up a little, so be cautious. Stir the mixture and let the alcohol cook off for about 1-2 minutes.
- Add brown sugar, soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce), smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine and let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Add heavy cream and lemon juice, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust with salt, pepper, or extra sugar if needed for balance.
4. Combine the Shrimp and Sauce:
- Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss them in the Henny butter sauce until they are coated. Let them cook in the sauce for another 1-2 minutes so they absorb all the flavors.
- If you want the sauce a little thicker, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce further.
5. Serve:
- Transfer the shrimp to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for extra brightness.
- Pair the dish with rice, pasta, or a side of vegetables like sautéed spinach or roasted asparagus to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips:
- Adjust the sweetness: If you like your sauce a little sweeter, add more brown sugar. For a tangy twist, add a bit more lemon juice.
- Spicy kick: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a finely chopped jalapeño.
- Alcohol alternatives: If you don’t want to use Hennessy or Cognac, you can substitute with brandy or bourbon for a similar depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Over Rice: Serve the shrimp and sauce over fluffy white rice or jasmine rice to balance the richness of the dish.
- With Pasta: Toss the shrimp and sauce with some linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine for a luxurious pasta dish.
- On the Side: Pair with a light green salad, sautéed spinach, or grilled vegetables to keep the meal fresh and balanced.
Henny Butter Shrimp is a flavorful, indulgent dish that combines the sweetness of brown sugar, the richness of butter and cream, and the unique flavor of Hennessy, making it a memorable meal for any occasion