Shrimp-licious: All Interesting Facts About Shrimp

Ah shrimps! Who doesn’t love this sweet, juicy and flavorful sea creatures? It is one of the most versatile seafood to work with, enjoyable by all ages in a variety of cooking styles. Needless to say, a LuxoFood’s guide to shrimp is in order. Here are all the facts about shrimp that you didn’t think you need to know before

What Are Shrimps?

Shrimps belong in the crustacean family that live in marine waters. They are frequently trap-caught for food, taste delicious, and have a range of benefits you never thought possible. Shrimps contain selenium, copper, choline, zinc, niacin and vitamins B6 and B12- everything that our bodies might be lacking.

It is also a low-calorie source of protein, quick to  prepare and readily available! Just be mindful when sourcing your shrimp and other seafood, in case there is use of preservatives or sold in less than fresh quality. Of course, you can count on LuxoFood to purchase the excellent selection of seafood.

Prawns VS Shrimps

Not to be confused with prawns, shrimps have claws on two of their five pairs of legs while prawns have three of their five pair of legs. Shrimps are generally smaller than prawns and considered marine creatures. Meanwhile prawns live strictly in freshwater.

Aside from different anatomies, size and aquaculture, you can say that shrimps and prawns are interchangeably and basically the same thing-especially in cooking. The taste are pretty much the same too.

Types of Shrimp for Cooking

Shrimps can be a staple ingredient in your main dish, so be prepared to know the different types for your best cooking experience :

• Spot prawns: Usually served with their heads on. Many chefs choose to serve this variety because it has a buttery texture and sweet flavor.
• White shrimp: They have a mild, nutty flavor and firm texture, and can reach lengths of eight inches. White shrimp can be cooked in many ways, including boiling, steaming, frying, baking, grilling or stuffing.
• Maine shrimp: A variety that comes from the Gulf of Maine. They are small, live in cold water and are pink in color.
• Pink shrimp: Is what most people think of when they talk about shrimp. This variety has a plump, firm texture and classic shrimp flavor profile – best described as an ocean-like taste – that makes it ideal for frying.
• Brown shrimp: Has an earthier quality and higher iodine content. About 55 percent of domestically caught shrimp are of this variety, so they’re pretty easy to find in supermarkets. Because they have such a unique flavor compared to other kinds, many shrimp lovers will steam or boil brown shrimp to keep that taste intact.
• Tiger shrimp: Excellent for grilling and steaming. This variety has a very firm texture and mild flavor, making them ideal for people who are experimenting with cooking shrimp for the first time.
• Rock shrimp: Considered by some to have both shrimp and lobster elements in their flavor profile. They have a very firm texture, which makes them stand up well to broiling or grilling.
• Freshwater shrimp: They have a mild flavor and less-firm texture, so they easily absorb the sauces or rubs they are cooked with. Many chefs like to grill or fry freshwater shrimp.

Large prawns peeled (frozen)

Let’s move on from facts about shrimp, these are 6 best tips on how to cook shrimp!

• Fresh vs Frozen

Frozen shrimp means saving money and having more flexibility. Meanwhile raw shrimp has a shorter shelf life. So it is best to work around your own timing, but we’d recommend frozen shrimps with shells intact for better flavor and texture.

• Count Number

To get an estimate on your shrimp quantity, check the label for shrimp count number.

• Defrost with Care

To defrost your frozen shrimp, let thaw in lower fridge temperature or use cold running water. Avoid using room temperature or warm water with your frozen shrimps.

• Cleaning Shrimp

After thawing and before cooking, deveining or removing the dark threadlike vein along their curved backs. This will get rid of sandy residue, so use your knife or scissor and gently take it out.

• Shells Use

Shrimp shells can add flavor to the flesh, so when cooking or grilling, leave them on and peel later for eating.

• Cooking Period

Shrimps cook rather quickly and take only a few minute to start turning colors and curling up. When this happens, the shrimps are about done so pay close attention to your cooking.

For more shrimp recipes, check out our favorite one here and don’t forget to check out LuxoFood for the best quality food ingredients!