Shrimp 101: Nutrition, Benefits, How To Use, Buy, Store | Shrimp: A Complete Guide

What is Shrimp

Shrimp are tiny, shellfish creatures that fall under the order Decapoda and the infraorder Caridea. These little sea creatures can be found in oceans, and some types even live in freshwater. People love eating shrimp all over the world because they taste great and are low in calories.

Their unique flavor and adaptability make them a favorite ingredient in a variety of cuisines, from Asian and Mediterranean to American dishes. You can grill, boil, fry, or sauté shrimp, and they’re often added to salads, stir-fries, pasta, and soups to give them that special seafood twist.

Other Names of Shrimp

Shrimp are known by various names depending on the region and the species. Some common alternative names for shrimp include:

1. Prawns: In many parts of the world, especially in British English, larger species of shrimp are often referred to as prawns. However, the distinction between shrimp and prawns can vary by region.
2. Scampi: In culinary contexts, particularly in Italian cuisine, the term “scampi” often refers to large shrimp or prawns prepared in garlic, butter, and white wine sauce.
3. Langoustine: In some regions, particularly in Europe, the term “langoustine” is used to refer to small lobsters or specific types of shrimp.
4. Crawfish: In certain areas, especially in the Southern United States, small freshwater crustaceans resembling shrimp are called crawfish or crayfish.
5. Shrimplet: This term may be used to refer to very small shrimp, especially in the context of aquariums or shrimp farming.

These are just a few examples, and there may be additional regional or colloquial names for shrimp depending on the area and language.

Nutritional Value of Shrimp

Here’s the nutritional value of shrimp per 100 grams (3.5 ounces) of cooked shrimp:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~99 kcal
Protein	~24 grams
Total Fat	~1.7 grams
Saturated Fat	~0.3 grams
Cholesterol	~189 mg
Carbohydrates	~0 grams
Dietary Fiber	~0 grams
Sugars	~0 grams
Calcium	~19 mg
Iron	~1.4 mg
Magnesium	~35 mg
Phosphorus	~221 mg
Potassium	~259 mg
Sodium	~119 mg
Zinc	~1.4 mg
Vitamin C	~0 mg
Vitamin B6	~0.1 mg
Vitamin B12	~1.7 µg
Vitamin A	~48 IU
Vitamin E	~1.5 mg
Vitamin K	~0.3 µg
Selenium	~44.3 µg

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as cooking method and shrimp size.

Benefits of Shrimp

Shrimp offer several potential health benefits due to their nutritional content and unique properties:

Packed with Protein: Shrimp is a fantastic source of high-quality protein, helping with muscle growth, repair, and keeping our body in tip-top shape.

Low-Calorie Goodness: If you’re watching your weight, shrimp is a great choice! They’re low in calories but still provide essential nutrients.

Healthy Fats: Shrimp has omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA. These fats are superstars for our health, known to reduce inflammation, boost heart health, and even enhance brain function.

Loaded with Minerals: Shrimp is not just tasty but also rich in essential minerals like selenium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, and iron. These minerals play a key role in keeping our body running smoothly.

Vitamin Boost: Enjoying shrimp gives us a good dose of vitamin B12, vital for nerve and blood cell health, and vitamin D, important for strong bones and a healthy immune system.

Great for Muscles: Thanks to its high protein content, shrimp supports muscle health. It’s a perfect choice for those who are active or aiming to build lean muscle.

Brain Boost: The omega-3s in shrimp are not just good for the body; they’re great for the brain too! They can help enhance cognitive function and reduce the risk of conditions like Alzheimer’s.

Heart-Friendly: Eating shrimp can benefit our heart. The omega-3s and other nutrients in shrimp can help lower triglyceride levels, improve cholesterol, and reduce inflammation, all of which are good for heart health.

Delicious and Versatile: Beyond the health benefits, shrimp is just downright delicious! You can cook them in so many ways – grilled, boiled, sautéed – and they can be added to salads, stir-fries, pasta dishes, and more. So, they not only make a nutritious choice but also add flavor to our meals!

Varieties of Shrimp

There are numerous varieties of shrimp found worldwide, each with its own unique characteristics in terms of size, flavor, texture, and habitat. Some popular varieties of shrimp include:

1. Whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei): Also known as Pacific white shrimp, this species is widely cultivated in aquaculture due to its rapid growth rate and high market demand.
2. Tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon): Named for its distinctive striped pattern, tiger shrimp is another commonly farmed species known for its large size and sweet flavor.
3. Gulf shrimp (Penaeus aztecus): Found in the Gulf of Mexico, this species is highly prized for its firm texture and sweet taste. It includes varieties such as brown, pink, and white shrimp.
4. Rock shrimp (Sicyonia brevirostris): Rock shrimp are small, deep-water shrimp with a firm texture and mild, sweet flavor. They are often compared to lobster in terms of taste and texture.
5. Spot prawn (Pandalus platyceros): Found primarily on the west coast of North America, spot prawns are large, sweet-tasting shrimp known for their distinctive white spots on their bodies.
6. Northern shrimp (Pandalus borealis): Also known as pink shrimp or deep-water shrimp, this species is found in cold, deep waters and is known for its delicate flavor and tender texture.
7. Royal red shrimp (Pleoticus robustus): Found in deep waters off the southeastern United States, royal red shrimp have a rich, sweet flavor and firm texture.
8. Carabineros shrimp: Originating from Spain, carabineros shrimp are large, deep-sea shrimp known for their vibrant red color and sweet, lobster-like flavor.
9. Cherry shrimp (Neocaridina davidi): These small, freshwater shrimp are popular in the aquarium trade due to their bright colors and ease of care.
10. Amaebi shrimp: Amaebi, also known as sweet shrimp, is a prized variety in Japanese cuisine known for its sweet flavor and tender texture, often served raw as sushi or sashimi.

These are just a few examples of the many varieties of shrimp found around the world, each with its own unique characteristics and culinary uses.

Taste of Shrimp: A Simple Guide

Shrimp are like the chameleons of the sea, and their taste can vary depending on a few things like the type, size, and how they’re cooked. But let’s dive into what you can generally expect:

Sweetness: When fresh and cooked just right, shrimp have this lovely subtle sweetness that’s quite delightful.

A Touch of the Sea: Coming from the ocean, shrimp naturally carry a hint of saltiness, giving them a unique and briny flavor.

Savory Goodness (Umami): There’s a natural savory flavor in shrimp, adding a rich depth to their taste that’s hard to resist.

Delicate and Adaptable: Shrimp have a gentle flavor and texture that easily soaks up the flavors of whatever you’re cooking them with. Whether it’s garlic, butter, lemon, or herbs, they play well with others.

The Fresh Factor: Freshly caught shrimp? Oh, they’re something else! They have a crisp, vibrant taste that you might miss in the frozen or processed ones. Just a heads up though, overcooking them can turn them rubbery and dull their flavor.

Different Strokes for Different Shrimp: Not all shrimp are created equal. For instance, tiger shrimp have a bit more of a pronounced flavor compared to the sweeter spot prawns.

In a Nutshell: Shrimp are generally mild and sweet with a touch of saltiness and umami goodness. Their delicate flavor makes them a go-to in many dishes, letting you get creative with flavors and cooking styles. So, the next time you’re cooking shrimp, enjoy playing with its versatile and delightful taste!

How To Cook Shrimp

Cooking shrimp is a straightforward process, and there are numerous methods to prepare them, depending on personal preferences and the desired dish. Here are some common ways to cook shrimp:

1. Boiling: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, usually around 2-3 minutes for small shrimp and 3-4 minutes for larger ones. Drain and serve immediately or transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
2. Grilling: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Thread shrimp onto skewers or place them directly on the grill grates. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque, brushing with marinade or oil as desired.
3. Sautéing: Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pink and opaque. You can add garlic, herbs, spices, or sauces to enhance the flavor.
4. Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and any desired spices. Bake for 6-8 minutes, or until pink and opaque.
5. Stir-Frying: Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add shrimp and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Add vegetables, sauces, and aromatics like garlic and ginger for a flavorful stir-fry dish.
6. Steaming: Place shrimp in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 3-5 minutes, or until pink and opaque. Serve immediately with dipping sauce.

Regardless of the cooking method, it’s important not to overcook shrimp, as they can become rubbery and lose their delicate flavor and texture. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking. They are ready when they turn pink and opaque throughout. Enjoy your cooked shrimp in salads, pasta dishes, tacos, stir-fries, or as a standalone appetizer with dipping sauce.

How To Use Shrimp

Shrimp are incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide variety of dishes and culinary styles. Here are several ways to use shrimp in your cooking:

1. Appetizers:
   • Serve cooked shrimp with cocktail sauce or aioli as a classic appetizer.
   • Use grilled or sautéed shrimp as a topping for bruschetta or crostini.
   • Wrap shrimp in bacon and secure with toothpicks for a delicious appetizer.
2. Salads:
   • Add cooked shrimp to salads for a protein boost. They pair well with mixed greens, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and citrus fruits.
   • Make a shrimp Caesar salad by tossing cooked shrimp with romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Pasta Dishes:
   • Incorporate shrimp into pasta dishes like shrimp scampi, shrimp alfredo, or shrimp primavera.
   • Toss cooked shrimp with spaghetti, olive oil, garlic, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil for a simple yet flavorful pasta dish.
4. Stir-Fries and Curries:
   • Add shrimp to stir-fries with mixed vegetables and your choice of sauce (e.g., soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, sweet and sour sauce).
   • Include shrimp in Thai or Indian curries for a seafood twist. They pair well with coconut milk, curry paste, vegetables, and aromatic spices.
5. Tacos and Wraps:
   • Fill tacos or wraps with grilled or blackened shrimp, shredded cabbage or lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, and a drizzle of salsa or chipotle sauce.
   • Make shrimp quesadillas by layering cooked shrimp with cheese, peppers, onions, and salsa between tortillas.
6. Soups and Stews:
   • Add shrimp to soups and stews during the last few minutes of cooking. They work well in seafood chowders, gumbo, bouillabaisse, and Thai coconut soups.
7. Skewers and Kabobs:
   • Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers with vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes. Grill or broil until the shrimp are cooked through and slightly charred.
8. Rice and Grain Bowls:
   • Top rice or grain bowls with cooked shrimp, sautéed vegetables, sliced avocado, and a drizzle of sauce (e.g., soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, peanut sauce).

These are just a few ideas for using shrimp in your cooking. Get creative and experiment with different flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques to create delicious dishes featuring shrimp as the star ingredient.

Substitute for Shrimp

If you’re looking for a substitute for shrimp due to dietary preferences, allergies, or availability, there are several options you can consider depending on the recipe:

1. Other Seafood:
   • Crab meat: Lump crab meat or imitation crab can be used as a substitute for shrimp in many dishes, such as salads, dips, and seafood pasta.
   • Scallops: Scallops have a sweet and delicate flavor similar to shrimp and can be used in stir-fries, pasta dishes, and seafood soups.
2. Fish:
   • Fish fillets: White fish such as cod, tilapia, or halibut can be used as a substitute for shrimp in dishes like fish tacos, fish curry, or fish stir-fries.
   • Salmon: Salmon can be used in place of shrimp in salads, pasta dishes, and wraps. Smoked salmon also adds a unique flavor to appetizers and dips.
3. Vegetarian Options:
   • Tofu: Firm tofu can be cubed and used as a substitute for shrimp in stir-fries, curries, and noodle dishes.
   • Tempeh: Tempeh, a fermented soybean product, can be marinated and cooked similarly to shrimp in stir-fries, wraps, and salads.
   • Hearts of palm: Sliced hearts of palm have a texture similar to shrimp and can be used in salads, ceviche, and pasta dishes.
4. Other Protein Sources:
   • Chicken: Cooked chicken breast or thigh meat can be used in place of shrimp in salads, wraps, pasta dishes, and stir-fries.

When substituting ingredients, consider the flavor, texture, and cooking time required for the substitute to ensure that it complements the other ingredients in the recipe. Additionally, adjust seasonings and sauces as needed to achieve the desired taste and balance.

Where to Buy Shrimp

You can buy shrimp from various sources, including:

1. Grocery Stores: Most grocery stores carry fresh, frozen, and sometimes precooked shrimp in their seafood section. You can find a variety of shrimp sizes and types, depending on the store’s selection.
2. Seafood Markets: Local seafood markets often offer a wider selection of fresh shrimp, including different varieties and sizes. These markets may source their shrimp locally or regionally, offering a fresher option compared to supermarket shrimp.
3. Online Retailers: Many online retailers specialize in selling seafood, including shrimp. You can order fresh or frozen shrimp from reputable online seafood companies and have them delivered directly to your doorstep.
4. Fishmongers: Fishmongers, or specialty fish shops, may carry high-quality fresh shrimp sourced from local fishermen or suppliers. These shops often provide personalized service and can offer recommendations on selecting and preparing shrimp.
5. Farmers’ Markets: Some farmers’ markets feature vendors selling locally sourced seafood, including shrimp. This can be a great option for buying fresh, sustainably harvested shrimp while supporting local fishermen and businesses.

When buying shrimp, consider factors such as freshness, sustainability, and quality. Look for shrimp that are firm, translucent, and odorless, with no signs of discoloration or shell damage. Additionally, consider the environmental impact of shrimp farming and harvesting practices by choosing sustainably sourced options when available.

How To Store Shrimp

Storing shrimp properly is essential to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. Here are some guidelines on how to store shrimp:

1. Refrigeration:
   • Fresh shrimp should be refrigerated as soon as possible after purchase.
   • Store fresh shrimp in the coldest part of the refrigerator, usually in the back near the freezer compartment.
   • Place the shrimp in a shallow container or on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.
   • Cover the shrimp loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
2. Temperature:
   • Keep the refrigerator temperature at or below 40°F (4°C) to slow bacterial growth and maintain the quality of the shrimp.
   • Avoid storing shrimp in the refrigerator door, as temperatures can fluctuate more frequently, leading to quicker spoilage.
3. Use Quickly:
   • Consume fresh shrimp within 1 to 2 days of purchase for optimal freshness.
   • Cooked shrimp should also be consumed within 1 to 2 days and stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container.
4. Freezing:
   • If you don’t plan to use the shrimp within a day or two, consider freezing them to prolong their shelf life.
   • To freeze shrimp, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
   • Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
   • Frozen shrimp can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.
5. Thawing:
   • Thaw frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water.
   • Avoid thawing shrimp at room temperature or in warm water, as this can promote bacterial growth and compromise food safety.
   • Once thawed, cook shrimp promptly and do not refreeze them unless they have been cooked first.

By following these storage guidelines, you can help ensure that your shrimp stay fresh and safe to eat for as long as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)