Dreamy Boiled Shrimp Recipe
The Boiled Shrimp Recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish featuring fresh shrimp simmered in a fragrant broth of herbs and spices. With just a handful of ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe yields tender, succulent shrimp that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it as a standalone appetizer, served chilled with cocktail sauce, or incorporate it into salads, pasta dishes, or seafood boils for a delightful burst of flavor. Versatile and delicious, boiled shrimp is a classic favorite that's sure to please seafood lovers of all ages.
Equipment
- 1 Pot
- 1 Knife
- 1 Strainer
- 1 Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 1 pound 16 ounces of fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined.
- Sufficient water to cover the shrimp for boiling.
- 1-2 tablespoons of salt for seasoning the boiling water.
Instructions
- Rinse 1 pound (16 ounces) of fresh shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a large pot, bring enough water to cover the shrimp to a boil.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of salt to the boiling water and optionally, add aromatics like lemon slices, bay leaves, peppercorns, garlic, or fresh herbs.
- Carefully add the prepared shrimp to the boiling water and cook them for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the shrimp from the boiling water and transfer them to a bowl of ice water or a colander under cold running water to stop the cooking process.
- Drain the shrimp thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Serve the boiled shrimp immediately as a standalone appetizer with cocktail sauce or refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 days for later use.
Notes
- Seasoning the Water - Use enough water to fully submerge the shrimp during boiling. Add approximately 1-2 tablespoons of salt per quart of water to season the boiling water. Enhance the flavor of the shrimp by adding aromatics such as lemon slices, bay leaves, whole peppercorns, garlic cloves, or fresh herbs to the boiling water.
- Boiling Process - Bring the seasoned water to a rolling boil before adding the shrimp. Boil the shrimp for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. Monitor the cooking time closely and remove the shrimp from the water as soon as they are cooked through.