best steamed shrimp recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best best steamed shrimp recipe

I’ve been making steamed shrimp for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. The dish originated in China, where it’s known as ‘shrimp cooked with wine.’

It’s a simple yet elegant recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. The key to making great steamed shrimp is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients and to not overcook them.

I like to serve mine with a side of garlic butter sauce and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is one of their favorites.

We often have family gatherings at our house, and steamed shrimp is always on the menu. It’s a great way to get everyone together and enjoying good food without a lot of fuss.

Plus, it’s relatively healthy compared to some other seafood options. My husband loves the way the shrimp turn out tender and flavorful after steaming them in a flavorful broth.

I’ve tried various seasoning combinations over the years, but this recipe remains my go-to for its simplicity and delicious results.

Perfect Steamed Shrimp

4.9 from 1538 votes

This recipe yields plump, tender shrimp with a delicate briny flavor. The shrimp are steamed with aromatics for a quick and healthy meal that is ready in minutes.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time5 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time15 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 120 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Shrimp

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
1 cup water
1/2 cup dry white wine or additional water
2 cloves garlic, smashed
1 lemon, sliced into rounds
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
1/2 teaspoon salt

For Serving (optional)

Melted butter
Lemon wedges
Cocktail sauce

👨‍🍳Directions

1Fill a large pot with 1 cup water, 1/2 cup white wine, smashed garlic, lemon slices, bay leaf, peppercorns, and salt.
2Bring the liquid to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-high to maintain a steady simmer.
3Place a steamer basket or metal colander inside the pot, ensuring it sits above the simmering liquid.
4Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the basket, cover the pot tightly with the lid, and steam over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes.
5Check the shrimp for doneness: they should be opaque and pink all the way through, and the tails will curl into a loose C shape.
6Remove the basket from the pot immediately with tongs to prevent overcooking.
7For warm shrimp, transfer them to a serving platter and serve right away with melted butter or lemon wedges.
8For cold shrimp, plunge the steamed shrimp into a bowl of ice water for 2 minutes, then drain and refrigerate until chilled.

🔧Equipment

Large pot with tight-fitting lid
Steamer basket or metal colander
Tongs
Large bowl of ice water (if serving cold)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 120 kcal🧈Total Fat: 2g💛Saturated Fat: 0.5g❤️Cholesterol: 180mg🧂Sodium: 400mg🌾Total Carbs: 2g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 0g🥩Protein: 23g

📝Notes

Do not overcook the shrimp or they will become rubbery. For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the steaming liquid. The shrimp can be served warm or chilled, and they pair well with cocktail sauce, garlic butter, or a simple vinaigrette.

Watch Video Of How Perfect Steamed Shrimp Works

Steamed shrimp is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family dinner or a special event.

I love how easy it is to make and how versatile it is – you can serve it as an appetizer or main course with various sauces or seasonings.

It’s also relatively healthy compared to other seafood options, making it a guilt-free choice for mealtime.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Steamed Shrimp

Q: What type of shrimp is best for steaming?

A: For this recipe, you’ll want to use large or extra-large shrimp that have been peeled and deveined. You can also use frozen shrimp if you prefer, just thaw them first before using.

Q: How do you season the shrimp before steaming?

A: To add flavor to your shrimp, try mixing together minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, and olive oil before brushing it onto the shrimp before steaming.

Q: Can I steam the shrimp in advance?

A: Yes, you can steam the shrimp up to an hour before serving. Just be sure to keep them warm until you’re ready to serve by covering them with foil or placing them in a low-temperature oven (around 150°F).

Q: What temperature should I steam the shrimp at?

A: To cook the shrimp evenly, steam them at a medium-high heat (around 400°F) for 8-10 minutes or until they turn pink.

Q: Can I serve steamed shrimp as an appetizer?

A: Steamed shrimp makes an excellent appetizer when served with cocktail sauce or garlic butter sauce. You can also add some crusty bread or crackers on the side for snacking.

Q: Are there any variations on this recipe I can try?

A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different seasonings like Old Bay or Cajun spice mix for added flavor.

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