One evening, inspired by the Gulf, we decided to host a shrimp boil feast at our campsite (or community cooking area if allowed). Here’s roughly how we did it, and how you can too (for family, seniors, or friends):
Ingredients (for 6–8 people):
- 2 lbs fresh shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 1 lb small red potatoes
- 1 lb sausage (andouille or smoked)
- 4–5 ears corn, cut
- 2 lemons, cut in halves
- 1/4 cup Old Bay or Cajun seasoning
- 3 garlic cloves
- Salt, pepper, bay leaves
Method:
- In a large pot of salted water, bring to boil.
- Add potatoes and sausage; cook 5 min.
- Add corn, garlic, and lemon halves; cook 5 min.
- Add shrimp and seasoning; cook 2–3 min until shrimp pink.
- Drain and dump onto a newspaper- or butcher-paper-lined picnic table, sprinkle extra seasoning, and serve family style.
We served this with coleslaw, crusty bread, and iced tea. The grandparents loved the communal style (sit & chat), kids raced to pick shrimp, and pet Olive sat under the table hoping for shrimp tails.
Afterward, we washed up and strolled to the dog park so our pup could run off some energy. That night, we all sat by the campfire, telling stories and enjoying warm Gulf breezes.