What Is Red Lobster’s Street Corn Shrimp?
Red Lobster’s Street Corn Shrimp is a seafood dish that combines the classic flavors of Mexican street corn, known as elote, with perfectly cooked shrimp. It features grilled or sautéed shrimp tossed in a creamy, spiced sauce, served atop a bed of roasted street corn kernels, and often garnished with cilantro and cotija cheese.
The Allure of Street Corn and Shrimp
The marriage of seafood and street corn might seem unconventional at first, but the pairing creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that has proven to be a culinary success. The sweetness of the corn complements the savory shrimp, while the creamy, spicy sauce ties everything together, creating a memorable dining experience. The dish taps into the popularity of street food flavors while elevating it with the premium appeal of seafood.
Deconstructing the Dish: Key Components
Understanding what makes Red Lobster’s Street Corn Shrimp so appealing requires a closer look at its individual components. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the overall flavor profile.
- Shrimp: Usually, a medium to large size shrimp is used, either grilled or sautéed to achieve a slight char and succulent texture. The cooking method impacts the flavor profile, with grilling adding a smoky dimension.
- Street Corn (Elote): This is the star alongside the shrimp. Red Lobster likely roasts or grills the corn kernels to enhance their sweetness and achieve a slightly smoky flavor. The kernels are then removed from the cob.
- Creamy Sauce: The sauce is crucial. It’s typically a blend of mayonnaise, sour cream or Mexican crema, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and sometimes a touch of cayenne pepper for heat. The specific recipe variations are a closely guarded secret, but the core ingredients remain consistent.
- Garnish: Fresh cilantro and crumbled cotija cheese (a salty, crumbly Mexican cheese) add the final touches. The cilantro provides a fresh, herbaceous counterpoint to the richness of the sauce, while the cotija contributes a salty, savory note.
Flavor Profile: A Symphony of Tastes
The Street Corn Shrimp offers a complex and appealing flavor profile that combines several key elements:
- Sweetness: Derived from the corn itself, enhanced by roasting or grilling.
- Savory: Provided by the shrimp, complemented by the cotija cheese.
- Creamy: From the mayonnaise/crema-based sauce.
- Spicy: From chili powder and optional cayenne pepper.
- Tangy: Contributed by the lime juice.
- Fresh: From the cilantro garnish.
Variations and Adaptations
While the core elements remain consistent, Red Lobster, and other restaurants offering similar dishes, often introduce variations. These may include:
- Different types of shrimp: Jumbo shrimp or variations like popcorn shrimp.
- Spice levels: Adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding hotter peppers for increased heat.
- Cheese variations: Substituting cotija cheese with queso fresco or Monterey Jack.
- Presentation: Serving the dish in a bowl, on a platter, or even as tacos.
- Additional toppings: Adding pico de gallo, avocado, or other complementary ingredients.
Red Lobster’s Edge: Quality and Consistency
What sets Red Lobster’s Street Corn Shrimp apart is not just the recipe itself but the restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and consistent execution. They have the resources to source high-quality shrimp and corn, and their standardized recipes ensure that the dish tastes the same every time. The restaurant’s established reputation and widespread availability also contribute to its popularity.
DIY Street Corn Shrimp: A Home Cook’s Guide
Creating your own version of Red Lobster’s Street Corn Shrimp at home is easier than you might think. Here’s a simplified guide:
- Prepare the Corn: Grill or roast corn on the cob until lightly charred. Remove the kernels.
- Cook the Shrimp: Grill or sauté shrimp with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Make the Sauce: Combine mayonnaise, sour cream (or crema), lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper to taste. Adjust the ratios to your liking.
- Assemble: Toss the cooked shrimp and corn kernels with the sauce.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and crumbled cotija cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kind of shrimp does Red Lobster use in its Street Corn Shrimp?
Red Lobster typically uses a medium to large size shrimp, often a white shrimp variety, in its Street Corn Shrimp. The exact type may vary depending on availability and regional sourcing, but the focus is on achieving a plump and juicy texture.
Is Red Lobster’s Street Corn Shrimp very spicy?
The spice level is generally considered mild to moderate. The dish includes chili powder, which provides a subtle warmth. However, you can ask your server if the kitchen can adjust the spice level if you are concerned.
Is the sauce in Street Corn Shrimp similar to what is used on elote?
Yes, the sauce is inspired by the traditional elote sauce, consisting of mayonnaise, Mexican crema, lime juice, and chili powder. However, Red Lobster’s version might have its own proprietary blend of spices and ingredients for a unique flavor profile.
Can I order the Street Corn Shrimp without cilantro?
Yes, most restaurants, including Red Lobster, are willing to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences. Simply request that your dish be prepared without cilantro when ordering.
Is Red Lobster’s Street Corn Shrimp gluten-free?
The dish’s gluten-free status is dependent on the ingredients used in the sauce. While the core ingredients (shrimp, corn, sauce components) are naturally gluten-free, some variations of mayonnaise or chili powder may contain gluten. It’s best to check with your server or the restaurant’s allergen information.
Can I substitute the shrimp for another protein, like chicken or fish?
While the dish is designed with shrimp in mind, some restaurants might be flexible and allow you to substitute with another protein. However, this is not guaranteed. Check with your server to see if this substitution is possible.
How many calories are in a serving of Red Lobster’s Street Corn Shrimp?
The calorie count can vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients. It’s best to consult Red Lobster’s official nutritional information for the most accurate data. This information is typically available on their website or upon request at the restaurant.
Is the Street Corn Shrimp a seasonal item on Red Lobster’s menu?
The availability of Street Corn Shrimp may vary depending on the location and time of year. It is not always a permanent fixture on the menu, so it’s best to check with your local Red Lobster to confirm its current availability.
Can I make Street Corn Shrimp at home using frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp to make this dish at home. Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Patting it dry also helps it to brown better in the pan.
What is cotija cheese and what can I use as a substitute?
Cotija is a firm, salty, and crumbly Mexican cheese. If you can’t find it, you can use feta cheese or queso fresco as a substitute. Both offer a similar salty and slightly tangy flavor profile.
Does Red Lobster offer a low-carb or keto-friendly version of the Street Corn Shrimp?
Red Lobster does not specifically offer a low-carb or keto-friendly version of the Street Corn Shrimp on its standard menu. However, you could potentially order the dish and ask for modifications to reduce the carbohydrate content, such as requesting it without the corn.
What are some good side dishes to pair with Red Lobster’s Street Corn Shrimp?
Good side dishes to complement Street Corn Shrimp include coleslaw, rice (especially cilantro-lime rice), grilled vegetables, and a simple salad. The refreshing flavors and textures of these sides help to balance the richness of the main dish.