Cajun shrimp with cilantro pilaf

Cajun shrimp

1. Use tiger shrimps(or any other jumbo shrimp). Peel, de-vein. May leave tail on. Pat dry. (Thaw in cold water for 10-15 mins if using frozen shrimps. Drain)
2. Marinate in Cajun spice mix. (garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dry oregano, dry thyme)
3. In a pan, fry minced garlic in low heat until fragrant (do not brown). Add shrimp.(you may also add tomatoes and/or celery, Serrano chilies )
4. Season with salt and pepper/pakrika/kashimiri mirch (for color) and lemon juice. Serve hot.

Cilantro pilaf

1. Cook Basmati rice in a rice cooker.
2. In a pan add olive oil/butter , scallions, cilantro (and toasted nuts like almonds or pine nuts). Add the rice in installments while you stir to mix the ingredients. You may also use chicken broth for flavor. Season with salt to taste.