How to Clean Shrimp
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Total Time
10 mins
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Servings
4 servings (4 oz each)
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Calories
113 kcal
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Course
Main Course, Appetizer
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Cuisine
American
How to Clean Shrimp
Description
Cleaning shrimp involves handling peeled or unpeeled shrimp properly to remove shells and the dark vein along the back, which is the digestive tract. Using scissors, cut along the back to remove the shell while leaving the tail intact for presentation. Then, a paring knife or shrimp deveiner is used to lift out the vein. Rinsing and patting dry completes the cleaning, preparing the shrimp for cooking.
Saving the discarded shells can provide a base for homemade shrimp stock, which adds depth to soups or sauces. Freezing these shells until a sufficient amount is collected is a practical way to reduce waste and create flavorful broth.
The cleaning and peeling step is fundamental for many shrimp recipes, ensuring a clean, tender result without grit or shell pieces.
Thawing shrimp properly ensures ease of cleaning and quality in the final dish. Overnight thaw in the refrigerator or cold water thawing with running water are recommended methods.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Shrimp thawed (see note 1)
Instructions
- If shrimp are still in the shell, use sharp scissors and cut along the middle back of each shrimp, leaving the tail intact.
- Using a sharp paring knife, cut along the dark vein on the back of each shrimp and remove it. Rinse out the back of each shrimp and pat dry with paper towels.
- Save shrimp shells in the freezer to make shrimp stock, if desired (see note 3).
Notes
- Thaw shrimp overnight in the refrigerator on a tray to catch any leaks.
- For faster thawing, place shrimp in a bowl of cold water and run a thin stream of cold water over them until thawed.
- Save shrimp shells in a freezer bag and accumulate at least 4 cups from 2 pounds of shrimp to make shrimp stock later.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings (4 oz each)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 113 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 4 oz | |
| Calories | 113kcal | 6% |
| Protein | 23g | 46% |
| Fat | 2g | 3% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Cholesterol | 286mg | 95% |
| Sodium | 881mg | 37% |
| Potassium | 91mg | 2% |
| Vitamin C | 5mg | 6% |
| Calcium | 164mg | 16% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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