steamed pork skin shrimp

How to Cook Steamed Mantis Shrimp: A Simple Guide

Steamed mantis shrimp, a beloved coastal delicacy, highlights the natural sweetness of the seafood with minimal effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide to perfecting this dish.

First, select fresh mantis shrimp—opt for those with firm, translucent shells and a briny ocean scent. Rinse them under cold water and use scissors to trim the sharp rostrum (head spike) and tail spikes for easier handling. For extra flavor, gently smash the shells with the back of a knife to help the marinade penetrate.

Next, prepare a simple marinade. In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of light soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and a few sliced ginger. Pour this over the mantis shrimp in a heatproof dish, adding a handful of scallions and 2-3 smashed garlic cloves for aroma.

For steaming, bring water to a rolling boil in a wok or steamer. Carefully place the dish in the steamer, cover tightly, and cook over high heat for 8-10 minutes (adjust time based on size—smaller shrimp need 8 minutes, larger ones up to 12). Avoid overcooking, as this will make the meat tough.

Once done, remove the dish and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of hot neutral oil to enhance the aroma. Garnish with extra chopped scallions and a sprinkle of white pepper if desired. Serve immediately with dipping sauce like a mix of soy sauce, vinegar, and fresh chili.

This method ensures the mantis shrimp remains tender, juicy, and full of flavor, letting the quality of the seafood shine. Enjoy this healthy and delicious dish as a starter or main course!