Dried shrimp are nutritious and rich in various minerals essential to the human body, especially calcium, earning them the name "calcium warehouse." Moreover, the appropriate ratio of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus in dried shrimp facilitates the body's absorption and utilization of calcium. Although dried shrimp are high in calcium, they are not the best source for supplementation. Why? First, dried shrimp are high in salt, and we don't consume large quantities at a time. Second, while milk is not the highest in calcium, it is easy to consume 300-500 milliliters daily, whereas it is difficult to eat more than 100 grams of dried shrimp every day. Third, dried shrimp are hard in texture, leading to low digestibility and utilization of calcium, whereas milk has very high digestibility and utilization.
When selecting dried shrimp, first, observe with your eyes. High-quality dried shrimp should be large and uniform, firm and full-bodied, with complete heads and tails, and a color that is white or slightly yellowish with a lustrous sheen. Second, feel them with your hand. Grasp a handful tightly; if they scatter immediately upon release, they are a quality product with proper dryness. If they do not scatter and are powdery or sticky, they are inferior or spoiled. Third, taste them. You can place a small amount in your mouth. Good dried shrimp have a fresh, savory flavor of fish and shellfish, whereas poor-quality ones may have an ammonia-like or other off-putting odors.
After purchasing, dried shrimp can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer, and should be sealed after each use.
Before eating dried shrimp, soak them in warm water for 3-5 minutes, then rinse them twice with water. This serves two purposes: first, it reduces the content of nitroso compounds, thereby minimizing carcinogens. Second, it removes excess salt and any fine sand that might be present. Additionally, it eliminates any undesirable odors from the dried shrimp itself, making the dishes savory without being fishy.
Dried shrimp can be used in many ways. Take a small handful, add some sesame oil and chopped green onions, and add some seaweed. Pour boiling water over it, and a bowl of delicious, aromatic, and visually appealing soup is ready. Home-cooked dishes like dried shrimp tofu, dried shrimp with chives, dried shrimp with scallions, and dried shrimp radish soup are all delicious delicacies. Adding a bit of dried shrimp to wontons not only enhances their umami but also boosts their nutritional value.