Nothing beats a batch of perfectly boiled shrimp – juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re preparing a classic shrimp cocktail, a seafood feast, or just craving a quick protein-packed snack, this boiled shrimp recipe is as simple as it is delicious. With a few pantry staples and some easy steps, you can make restaurant-quality shrimp right at home.
Why You’ll Love This Boiled Shrimp Recipe:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes from start to finish.
- Flavorful: Seasoned to perfection with aromatic herbs and spices.
- Versatile: Ideal for shrimp cocktail, salads, pasta, or as a stand-alone dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp (fresh or frozen, peeled or shell-on)
- 4 cups water
- 1 lemon (halved)
- 1 onion (quartered)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 celery stalk (minced)
- 2 bay leaf
- Ice (for an ice bath)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, thaw them under cold running water for 5-10 minutes. If fresh, rinse and clean as needed.
- Boil the Water: In a large pot, combine 4 cups of water, lemon halves, Old Bay seasoning, garlic, salt, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Shrimp: Once the water is boiling, add the shrimp. Boil for 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them – shrimp cook quickly!
- Cool the Shrimp: Immediately transfer the shrimp to an ice bath (a bowl filled with ice and cold water). This stops the cooking process and keeps the shrimp tender and juicy. Let them cool for about 5 minutes.
- Serve & Enjoy: Drain the shrimp and serve them with cocktail sauce, lemon wedges, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Perfect Boiled Shrimp:
- Shell-on or Peeled? Shell-on shrimp are more flavorful but peeled shrimp are easier to eat. Choose based on your preference.
- Don’t Overcook: Shrimp only need 2-3 minutes to cook. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery.
- Extra Flavor Boost: Add additional spices like black peppercorns, fresh herbs, or a splash of hot sauce to the boiling water for a flavor kick.
How to Store Boiled Shrimp:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover boiled shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze cooked shrimp in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Serving Ideas:
- Shrimp Ceviche: Serve chilled in clamato juice with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños for a refreshing seafood appetizer.
- Shrimp Cocktail: Serve chilled with tangy cocktail sauce.
- Salads: Toss boiled shrimp into your favorite green or pasta salad.
- Tacos: Use as a filling for shrimp tacos with fresh salsa and avocado.
With this simple and flavorful boiled shrimp recipe, you’ll have a delicious seafood dish ready in no time. Perfect for a quick snack, an elegant appetizer, or the centerpiece of your next seafood spread. Enjoy!
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