Red Lobster is well-known for its mouth-watering seafood dishes, and one of its most popular offerings is Walt’s Favorite Shrimp. This dish is named after Walt Kolenda, who was a long-time executive chef at Red Lobster. The dish features succulent shrimp coated in a crispy batter and served with a zesty cocktail sauce. In this article, we will explore the history of Walt’s Favorite Shrimp, its ingredients, nutrition facts, and tips to make it at home.
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The Story Behind Walt’s Favorite Shrimp
Walt Kolenda was an executive chef at Red Lobster for over 30 years, and he played a key role in developing many of the seafood dishes that are now staples on the restaurant’s menu. One of his most beloved creations is Walt’s Favorite Shrimp, which was introduced in the late 1990s. The dish was an instant hit, and it has remained a fan favorite ever since.
What is in Walt’s Favorite Shrimp?
Walt’s Favorite Shrimp is a simple yet delicious dish that consists of lightly breaded shrimp and a tangy cocktail sauce. The batter used to coat the shrimp is a mixture of flour, cornstarch, and spices, which gives the shrimp a crispy texture and a slightly spicy flavor. The cocktail sauce is made from a blend of ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice, which adds a zesty kick to the dish.
How to Make Walt’s Favorite Shrimp at Home
If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll be happy to know that you can make Walt’s Favorite Shrimp at home. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious dish:
- Clean and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails intact.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
- In a separate bowl, beat together an egg and a cup of milk.
- Dip the shrimp in the egg mixture and then coat them in the flour mixture.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large pot until it reaches 375°F.
- Fry the shrimp in batches until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain the shrimp on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve the shrimp with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges.
What is the Nutrition Information for Walt’s Favorite Shrimp?
While Walt’s Favorite Shrimp is undoubtedly delicious, it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition information for a serving of Walt’s Favorite Shrimp, which includes six shrimp and two tablespoons of cocktail sauce:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 440 |
| Total Fat | 21g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5g |
| Cholesterol | 150mg |
| Sodium | 1760mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 41g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 14g |
| Protein | 24g |
Tips for Serving Walt’s Favorite Shrimp
Walt’s Favorite Shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served in many different ways. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of this mouth-watering seafood dish:
Pair it with a Salad
Walt’s Favorite Shrimp is a fairly heavy dish, so it pairs well with a light and refreshing salad. Consider serving it with a simple green salad dressed in a vinaigrette or a citrusy dressing.
Serve it with Rice or Pasta
If you’re looking for a heartier meal, consider serving Walt’s Favorite Shrimp with rice or pasta. The shrimp and cocktail sauce pair well with a variety of grains and noodles, and they make for a filling and satisfying meal.
Make it a Party Appetizer
Walt’s Favorite Shrimp is a great appetizer for parties and gatherings. You can serve it on a platter with toothpicks and dipping sauce, and your guests can enjoy it as a finger food.
Question and Answer about Walt’s Favorite Shrimp
Q: Is Walt’s Favorite Shrimp spicy?
A: Yes, the batter used to coat the shrimp includes cayenne pepper, which gives the shrimp a mildly spicy flavor. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the batter to your liking.
Q: Can I use a different type of sauce with Walt’s Favorite Shrimp?
A: Yes, you can use any type of dipping sauce that you like with Walt’s Favorite Shrimp. Some popular options include tartar sauce, garlic aioli, and sweet chili sauce.
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp to make Walt’s Favorite Shrimp?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp to make Walt’s Favorite Shrimp. Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before using them in the recipe.
What People Are Saying About Walt’s Favorite Shrimp
Customers who have tried Walt’s Favorite Shrimp at Red Lobster rave about its delicious flavor and crispy texture. Many reviewers on Yelp and TripAdvisor describe the dish as their favorite item on the menu, and they often recommend it to others. Some customers have even tried to replicate the recipe at home with great success.
Conclusion
Walt’s Favorite Shrimp is a classic seafood dish that has been delighting customers at Red Lobster for over two decades. With its crispy texture, mildly spicy flavor, and tangy cocktail sauce, it’s easy to see why this dish has become a fan favorite. Whether you enjoy it as an appetizer, a main course, or a party snack, Walt’s Favorite Shrimp is sure to satisfy your cravings for delicious seafood.
