Ingredients:
2 parts each:
coriander seeds
mustard seeds
dill seeds
1 part each:
celery seeds
whole cloves
whole allspice
black peppercorns
dried red chilies
1 hand-full of bay leaves
a few quartered yellow onions
a few lemons & oranges, quartered
a generous and seemingly diabolical amount of salt
Method:
In a large pot mix together about one cup of the seasoning blend with one gallon of fresh cold water. With a spoon taste the broth and adjust the flavors accordingly, now and later on before you add the goods, keeping in mind that it has to be very strong: The saltiness countering the sweet/sourness of the citrus, the various seasonings being in balance. Bring to a boil and then simmer for 45 minutes. Strain out the seasonings and return the flavored liquid to the pot; Or, just keep the seasoning mix bundled up in cheese cloth. Return to a hard boil and add some whole shrimp. Remove them from the pot just as the liquid is returning to a boil. Now the pot is seasoned wonderfully with the spices, the citrus and the shrimp. Boil potatoes, corn, artichoke, eggs. Andouille, cabbage, green onion heads..all are great additions. I have found it beneficial to hold the boiled goodies in a little bit of the boiling broth. Keeps everything moist and flavorful. So,save some of the boiling liquid to make remoulade sauce..
