shrimp

How to Cook Perfect Boiled Shrimp: A Simple Guide

Boiled shrimp is a quick, delicious, and versatile dish that highlights the natural sweetness of seafood. Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering it.

First, choose fresh shrimp: peeled or unpeeled, raw or frozen (thawed). For 1 lb (450g) of shrimp, bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add aromatics like 2 sliced lemons, 4 crushed garlic cloves, a sprig of thyme, and 1 tbsp of salt—avoid overseasoning, as the shrimp’s flavor should shine.

Once boiling, drop in the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes (for medium-sized shrimp) until they turn pink and curl into a “C” shape. Overcooking makes them tough, so watch closely immediately. Drain and transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process, ensuring a firm texture.

For serving, toss with melted butter, garlic, and parsley, or keep it simple with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning. Left shrimp are great in salads, pasta, or tacos. Enjoy this effortless yet elegant dish in under 15 minutes!