Boiling shrimp is one of the quickest and easiest methods of cooking shrimp. And they’re perfect for classic shrimp cocktail, shrimp salsa, for sushi rolls and more! The best part it takes less than 5 minutes.
Visual cues of fully cooked shrimp:
- opaque
- pink with bright red accents
- curl into a perfect C shape
Why you’ll love this recipe:
Wonder why one would want to boil shrimp? Well, boiled shrimp is incredibly versatile and can be used in many dishes, like homemade sushi rolls, or served as an appetizer. Shrimp cocktail, anyone?
Plus, this method is so simple and quick!
How to Make Perfectly Cooked Shrimp Every Time
Should you peel shrimp before cooking?
Strain the shrimp and allow them to cool before you remove their shells, or allow your guests to peel their own. Boiling shrimp remains one of the most common cooking methods along with grilling, sauteing, frying and baking. Fresh shrimp will still have their shells, so a cook has the option whether to peel the shrimp before boiling them.
Can I eat raw shrimp?
Eating raw shrimp is not recommended. Raw shrimp can contain bacteria that can cause food poisoning. It is also a good source of purines, which can trigger gout attacks. If you want to eat shrimp, cook it thoroughly to reduce the risk of food poisoning and to help prevent gout attacks. Cook shrimp until it is opaque and pink to ensure that it is safe to eat.
Should you boil shrimp before cooking?
Boiling shrimp remains one of the most common cooking methods along with grilling, sauteing, frying and baking. Fresh shrimp will still have their shells, so a cook has the option whether to peel the shrimp before boiling them. How you plan to use your shrimp helps that decision along.
Can you buy fresh shrimp after boiling?
Buy fresh or frozen shrimp, but you should generally go with ones with the shells intact. Look for shrimp that fully fill out their shells. This will give you the most fresh-tasting shrimp after boiling. Wash the fresh shrimp thoroughly in preparation for boiling. If you buy frozen shrimp, defrost them in cold water or in the refrigerator.