How to Cook Shrimp
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Before I go into how to cook shrimp, you need to know first how to thaw, shell and devein the shrimp.
How to defrost shrimp
There are a few ways to choose from to defrost shrimp. It all depends on how much time you have.
METHOD NO.1:
Get the shrimp out of the package and put them in a bowl. Cover and leave overnight in the fridge. The next morning they will be ready.
METHOD NO.2:
Place the shrimp in a waterproof plastic bag. Fill the sink with cold water enough to immerse the bag. It will take one hour to defrost 1 lb of shrimp using this method.
DO NOT thaw shrimp at room temperature or in a microwave.
How to cook shrimp using 3 different methods
Important: Do not over cook the shrimp, as it will make them tough
BOILING: In a large pot, add 4 cups of water for every pound of shrimp. Bring the water to a boil then add thawed shrimp and simmer. You’ll know the shrimp are done when the skin turns pink and the meat is opaque, and the shrimp will float to the top of the water.
It doesn’t take long, on average about 3 to 7 minutes depending on the size of the shrimp. When done, remove from the pot and place on ice.
GRILLING: Cooking shrimp on the BBQ is my favorite way. Place your shrimp in skewers. Ajust the heat to medium. Oil the grill grate lightly (or use Pam like I do). I also brush the shrimp with a mixture of olive oil, soya and garlic.
Place the shrimp over direct heat and cook 1 or 2 minutes on the first side, and 30 seconds to a minute on the second side. They will turn pink when done, but make sure by opening one and if opaque, then they are done!
PAN-FRYING: Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Add oil when the pan is hot. Add garlic, (optional) and sauté for 30 seconds. Add the shrimp, season with salt, and cook, stirring constantly.
When the shrimp turn pink, remove one and test for doneness by cutting it in half. If the shrimp are opaque throughout and no longer translucent, they’re done. Remove from heat as soon as the shrimp are cooked.