More shrimp is sold every year than most crustaceans on the market. From seafood platters to curries, it is a favorite for cooks around the world. Flavorful and quick to cook, its tasty meat is easy to season and cooks within a few minutes. Because it can be easily overcooked, learn how to cook shrimp the right way to add a seafood twist to your daily menu.
Difference between Shrimp and Prawns
Using the terms “shrimp” and “prawns” interchangeably is one of the most common mistakes people make. This mix-up is completely understandable. Not only are they similar in appearance, but they sometimes have the same taste too. The difference between shrimp and prawns boils down to biology.
Contrary to popular opinion, not all shrimp is small. Some shrimp can be larger than prawns, while some popular prawn types are actually shrimp. The best way to know whether you’re buying shrimp or prawn is to ask your vendor. Otherwise, you can always substitute one for the other when it comes to cooking.
Nutrients in Shrimp
These lovable crustaceans are full of protein and omega fats. Protein is best known for its benefits in restoring muscle and curbing hunger. Omega fatty acids are considered to be “brain nutrients” because they support brain activity and can help fight inflammation. Shrimp also has plenty of selenium and vitamin B, which boost immunity and energy.
How to Shell Shrimp the Right Way
The best shrimp shelling technique is to hold down the tail and use your fingers to strip the entire shell by pulling to the left or right. It’s also important to gently slice the back of shrimp and remove the black vein.
How to Cook Shrimp on Stovetop
Step 1:
Start by thawing shrimp in the fridge overnight.
Step 2:
Fill a pot with water and boil over medium-high heat. You can dash the water with salt for seasoning.
Step 3:
When water starts to bubble, drop in the shrimp and cook for no more than 5 minutes. The best way to tell if shrimp is cooked is when it floats to the top of the water. Remove from heat and serve with garlic butter or tartar sauce.
How to Cook Shrimp in the Oven
Ingredients
- 1 lb. shrimp deveined
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450 F and shell shrimp.
- In a pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Once melted, add 1 teaspoon of minced garlic and a pinch of salt to the butter. Some prefer using Old Bay seasoning.
- Place shrimp in a wide baking dish and pour seasoned butter over it.
- Bake small shrimp for 6 minutes, medium shrimp for 10 minutes and large shrimp for 15 minutes until meat is opaque.
- Turn shrimp midway through cooking, remove from heat and serve.
Nutrition
Shrimp is versatile, delicious and simple to cook. It easily incorporates into other dishes and carries a lot of useful nutrients. Serve with garlic butter, tartar sauce, salsa verde and other sauces.
You can start by selecting Shrimp Recipes here that appeals to you.
Coney says
Hi Vanj,
There’s no shrimp here Down Under… just prawns.
Regards,