How to Steam Shrimp: 6 Easy and Delicious Recipes

Introduction

Steamed shrimp is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for any occasion. However, for those who have never attempted to make this dish, it may seem intimidating. In this article, we will provide you with six different methods and recipes on how to steam shrimp. Each recipe has its unique flavor, making it easy for you to choose the one that suits you best. So, let’s get started!

The Classic Method

The classic method uses a traditional steaming basket or an oven-safe dish. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Fill a pot with enough water to boil but make sure that it does not touch the steaming basket when placed on top of the pot.
2. While waiting for the water to boil, rinse and peel the shrimp.
3. Once you see steam coming out from the pot, place the steaming basket on top of the pot.
4. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer inside the steaming basket.
5. Cover the basket with a lid and let it cook for about 5-6 minutes, depending on the size of the shrimp.
6. When the shrimp is fully cooked, it should turn pink with a slightly curled shape.
7. Remove the shrimp from the basket using a tong and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Note: It is essential to keep an eye on the cooking process as overcooking will cause the shrimp meat to turn tough and chewy.

The Asian Twist

For an Asian-inspired twist, here is a recipe that will give your steamed shrimp an extra kick:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
• 1 clove of garlic, grated

Instructions:

1. Mix all the ingredients in a bowl.
2. Add the mixture into a resealable plastic bag with the shrimp and marinate for at least 30 minutes to one hour.
3. Place the shrimp with the marinade in an oven-safe dish.
4. Cover with foil and steam the shrimp in a preheated oven for 10-12 minutes at 350°F.
5. Remove the foil and drizzle the extra marinade on top of the dish.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Note: Adjust the marinade flavor to your preference by adding more honey or soy sauce.

The One-Pot Wonder

If you are looking for a more convenient method with minimal clean-up, the one-pot wonder method is perfect for you:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup of vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 small tomato, chopped
• 1 tablespoon of Old Bay seasoning
• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
• 1 lemon, sliced

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine all ingredients except for the shrimp and parsley.
2. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Add the shrimp, stir and cover the pot.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink.
5. When fully cooked, remove from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley on top.
6. Serve hot in bowls with a slice of lemon.

Note: This method can also be adjusted using different seasoning and herbs depending on your preference.

The Grill Master

Incorporating a smoky flavor to your steamed shrimp using a grill? Here’s how:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons of butter, melted
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 lemon, sliced
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Cut four pieces of aluminum foil and place them on top of each other.
3. Combine melted butter, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
4. Add shrimp into the bowl and toss until coated well.
5. Divide the shrimp mixture onto the center of each foil.
6. Place lemon slices on top of each pile.
7. Close and fold the foil, sealing the edges well.
8. Place the foil packets on the grill, and cook for 10-12 minutes.
9. Remove from grill and carefully open the foil packets.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with sliced lemon.

Note: Use nonstick cooking spray on the foil and flip the packets halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.

The Southern Style

For a classic Southern-style steamed shrimp, here is what you will need:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon of cajun seasoning
• 1/2 cup of beer
• 1/4 cup of lemon juice
• 1/4 cup of hot sauce
• 1/4 cup of melted butter

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine all the ingredients except for the shrimp and butter.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook for about 5 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink.
4. Drizzle with melted butter and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Note: Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cajun seasoning and hot sauce.

The Low-Carb Option

For a delicious low-carb option, here’s how you can prepare and cook your steamed shrimp:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
• 3 cloves of minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon of salted butter
• 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley

Instructions:

For the cauliflower rice:

1. Cut the cauliflower into small florets and pulse it in a food processor until it has a rice-like texture.
2. In a heated skillet, add the olive oil and minced garlic until fragrant.
3. Add the cauliflower rice into the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until cooked.
4. Remove from heat and add chopped parsley.

For the garlic butter sauce:

1. In a small saucepan, melt butter and add minced garlic.
2. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add paprika and stir.
4. Add the shrimp, cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Note: This recipe is perfect for those on a low-carb diet, and it is also gluten-free.

Conclusion

Now, you know how to steam shrimp using six different methods. Each one has its unique flavor, making it easy for you to choose the one that suits you best. It is advisable to accompany each recipe with a refreshing beverage like lemon tea, pineapple juice, or a glass of white wine to enhance the overall taste. Additionally, to make a complete meal, consider pairing the steamed shrimp with a tasty side dish such as roasted vegetables, coleslaw or a good old-fashioned sandwich. Don’t hesitate to try each of these simple yet tasty recipes and impress your family and friends with your newfound culinary skills.