Shrimp Dip Full Of Memories

Wine & Dine Wednesday a family recipe that is full of wonderful memories. I wrote about this many years ago. My sister mustered up the energy to whip up a batch for when we arrived on Sunday. Along with inheriting the positive outlook gene from our father we both inherited the entertaining gene from our mother. Even while on chemotherapy and radiation she made sure we were well fed on our stay. There was never a Watson gathering that our mom did not have a bowl of shrimp dip at the ready. One taste of it brings back a flood of lovely memories. Plus it is so simple to make and is super tasty.

Take two 8 ounce blocks of cream cheese and leave out until soft. These really need to be soft to make this easy to mix. Once soft, put into a mixing bowl. I use a KitchenAid mixer, my sister uses a hand held mixer. Either is totally fine. Add two 4 ounce cans of tiny shrimp after you have drained them thoroughly. Fresh cooked shrimp is fine here too. Our mom always used the canned shrimp, so I try and make it just as she did so the flavor/memory is just the same. Then add 6 dashes of Worcestershire sauce. As well as a two teaspoons of garlic powder. Add a few pinches of fresh ground pepper. Start mixing these all together, adding whole milk as you go, until you get the desired consistency you like. Mom liked it creamier, my sister & I like it firmer. Once done, give it a taste and see if you want to add more Worcestershire sauce or garlic powder. That is it.

Serve with the best potato chips you can get your hands on. Our brother’s name is Tim, so we always try and serve it with those. Crackers are fab, as are slices of baguette. This really just takes me back to my youth and Midwest roots. It is amazing how food and tastes and flavors can do just that.

Thank you all for the kind messages and prayers sent these last few days. It means so much to our family. Keep them coming please. It is a long road ahead. It has been such a meaningful stay in Kansas City. As so many of you also know, this battling cancer journey can use all the positive energy, prayers and good vibes all along the way. Much love, T2+B