Steaming Shrimp: Pressure Cooker Magic

Shrimp is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from appetizers to salads and pasta. If you're working with frozen shrimp, you might be wondering about the best way to cook them. One option is to use a pressure cooker, which can steam the shrimp and have them ready in minutes. However, there are some important things to keep in mind to ensure your shrimp turn out perfectly cooked and not overdone.

Using a pressure cooker like an Instant Pot is a convenient way to cook frozen shrimp without having to defrost them first. The process is simple: add water to the pot, place the frozen shrimp in a steamer basket, and cook at high pressure for a short time, usually around 0 to 5 minutes. The exact time depends on the size of your shrimp and whether they are raw or pre-cooked. It's important to use a steamer basket to keep the shrimp elevated above the water, as boiling them directly in the water will overcook them.

While the Instant Pot is great for convenience and speed, it's worth noting that it may not be the best option if you want precise control over the doneness of your shrimp. With a pressure cooker, you can't check on the shrimp as they cook, so there is a chance they might turn out slightly overdone.

For those who want more control over the cooking process, alternative methods like pan-searing, boiling, or broiling are recommended. These methods allow you to keep a closer eye on the shrimp as they cook, reducing the risk of overcooking.

How to prepare shrimp for steaming

The first step in preparing shrimp for steaming is to decide whether you want to steam them with the shell on or off. Shell-on shrimp will have more flavour, but shell-off shrimp are easier to eat. If you opt for shell-on shrimp, you can either steam them whole or remove the heads by twisting or chopping them off with a chef's knife.

Next, you'll need to peel the shrimp. To do this, grab onto the section of shell that meets the belly (where the legs are) and pull back. If you're serving the shrimp with their tails still on, use scissors or a knife to snip off the tail.

Once the shrimp are peeled, you'll need to devein them. To do this, use a paring knife to cut a slit along the back of each shrimp, exposing the dark intestinal tract. Remove the tract with the tip of your knife or your fingers, then rinse the shrimp.

At this point, you can choose to brine the shrimp for extra juiciness. Soak them in an ice water-salt brine for one hour before cooking. You can also add sugar and baking soda to the brine for extra crispness and snap. Just be sure to rinse the shrimp before steaming to wash off the baking soda.

Finally, you can add extra flavour to the shrimp by marinating them in lemon or lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for 30-60 minutes before cooking. Alternatively, sprinkle Old Bay Seasoning on the shrimp before cooking, or add minced garlic to the steaming liquid.

Instant Pot steaming vs boiling shrimp

There are several ways to cook shrimp, including steaming and boiling. But which method is better? In this article, we will compare the two methods and give you the pros and cons of each so you can decide which one is right for you.

Steaming shrimp in an Instant Pot

Steaming shrimp in an Instant Pot is a quick and easy way to cook shrimp. It only takes a few minutes to prepare and cook the shrimp, and you only need a few simple ingredients. Here's how to do it:

• Add water to the Instant Pot.
• Place the shrimp in a steaming basket and put the basket in the Instant Pot. You can also use a foil bowl to put the shrimp in if you don't have a steaming basket.
• Put a glass lid on top. You can use the official Instant Pot glass lid or check if one of your glass lids from your cookware set works.
• Press the "steam" function and set the timer for 5 minutes.
• When the timer goes off, check the shrimp. If they are small or medium, they may be done. The shrimp are considered done when they are pink and slightly curled.
• If you're cooking large shrimp, you might need to stir them and add an additional 4-5 minutes to the timer. Check the shrimp at 4 minutes and add 1-2 minutes if needed.
• Serve the shrimp immediately, or store them in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze cooked shrimp for 3-6 months if wrapped well.

The cooking time for shrimp in an Instant Pot will depend on the size of your shrimp. For smaller shrimp, reduce the cooking time to 3 minutes and watch them to prevent overcooking. Make sure to note the total cook time for the size of shrimp you're using so you can set the timer correctly next time.

It's important to note that this method does not use the pressure cooker function of the Instant Pot. Even using a pressure cooker with a quick release to the steam valve would easily overcook the shrimp.

Boiling shrimp in an Instant Pot

Another way to cook shrimp in an Instant Pot is by boiling them. Here's how you can do it:

• Add water to the Instant Pot and put the shrimp in the pot.
• Close the lid and turn the valve to the sealing position.
• Press the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" button and set the time to 0 minutes for frozen cooked shrimp or 1 minute for frozen raw shrimp on high pressure.
• When the Instant Pot is done cooking, quickly release the steam.
• Drain the shrimp and serve.

This method is also quick and easy, and you can serve the boiled shrimp with rice or quinoa, add them to salads, or toss them with some butter and minced garlic.

So, which method is better?

Both methods have their pros and cons. Steaming shrimp in an Instant Pot results in more tender shrimp compared to boiling them. However, boiling shrimp is also a quick and easy method that can be used to prepare shrimp for various dishes. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide which method you prefer based on your taste preferences and how you plan to use the shrimp.

What equipment to use for steaming shrimp

Steaming shrimp is one of the best ways to cook shellfish. The gentle cooking technique helps elevate the shrimp's flavour and tender snap. There are many options for steaming shrimp, and you can use a variety of equipment. Here is what you need to know about steaming shrimp and the equipment to use.

Pot & Steamer Combos

One of the most common setups is a large metal pot with a steamer basket insert that sits on top. The basket has holes or perforations to let steam through from the pot below. You can also buy a separate steamer basket that fits inside your pot and stands on little feet to keep it elevated from the water. Many feature a handle to make it easier to lift out of the pot. Some are even collapsible, making them easy to store.

Instant Pot

You can use an Instant Pot or another electronic countertop pressure cooker to steam shrimp, but it's important to note that the steam function on these devices also creates pressure, which can overcook or break apart the shrimp. Instead, use the steamer rack and the sauté setting to bring the water to a simmer. Cover with a cloth or plate instead of the pressure cooker lid to avoid creating a vacuum.

Tamale Pot

If you have a tamale pot, you can use it for steaming shrimp, especially if you intend to cook a large batch for a party or gathering.

Chinese-Style Bamboo Steamer

You can also use a Chinese-style bamboo steamer over a wok or another pot or pan. Steamer racks that are popular in Chinese and other East Asian cuisines can be quite inexpensive and sturdy enough to support a plate or bowl, which is important if you want to hold onto the shrimp's juices or coat them in a sauce.

No Steamer? No Problem!

If you don't have special steaming equipment, you can rig a regular stock pot to become a steamer by simply turning a heat-safe bowl upside down in your pot and placing a heavy, heat-safe plate on top. A heatproof colander set on top of a pot of simmering water also works perfectly. Alternatively, you can create a steamer by layering potatoes and corn on the cob inside your pot along with water or another liquid. Place your shrimp on top of the vegetables, which will keep them elevated above the liquid.

How to steam shrimp without a steamer

You can steam shrimp in an Instant Pot, but it's important to note that this is not the same as using a pressure cooker. Even using a pressure cooker with a quick release on the steam valve would too easily overcook the shrimp.

Firstly, fill a cooking pot with enough water to submerge 1 lb. of shrimp. Add 2 tbsp. of lemon juice, 1 tbsp. of garlic powder, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring the water to a boil on the stove top.

Next, add 1 lb. of fresh, raw shrimp to the boiling water. Stir well, then cover the pot with a lid. Turn the heat source off after five minutes. Allow the shrimp to soak up the marinade for 10 minutes.

Check for doneness by looking for opaque, white and pink flesh. Drain the marinade off of the shrimp. Preserve 1/4 cup of the marinade to serve with the shrimp if desired.

You can also steam shrimp in a mesh strainer or colander placed over a pot of simmering water. The water shouldn't touch the shrimp. Season the shrimp with a liberal amount of seasoning, such as Old Bay and/or Cajun seasoning. Steam the shrimp for about 6 minutes, until they are cooked through and tender.

Alternatively, you can use a medium pot with 1/2 inch of water and three golf ball-sized balls of aluminium foil on the bottom. Place a heat-proof plate on top of the foil balls, cover the pot, and bring the water to a boil. Add the shrimp to the plate, cover, and steam until they are cooked to your liking.

How to season shrimp and steaming liquid

When it comes to seasoning shrimp and steaming liquid, there are endless possibilities to suit your taste preferences.

If you want to let the natural flavours of the shrimp shine through, opt for plain water as your steaming liquid. Adding a few slices of lemon is also a traditional choice that complements the sweetness of the shrimp.

For a more adventurous option, you can swap water for stock, wine, beer, fruit juices, or any other beverage of your choice. There are no limits to the creative combinations you can experiment with.

To add extra flavour to your dish, consider tossing the raw shrimp in some cayenne pepper, black pepper, citrus zest, curry powder, or herbs before steaming. You can also add liquid seasonings like a splash of vermouth or sherry to enhance the shrimp's natural sweetness.

If you want to get creative with your steaming liquid, try adding aromatics like onions, celery, carrots, garlic, or ginger. Don't be afraid to explore your spice cabinet and herb garden for additional inspiration. Chili peppers, black pepper, bay leaves, thyme, cilantro, and parsley are all great options to infuse your shrimp with flavour.

Remember, when adding extra flavour to your shrimp and steaming liquid, it's important to heavily season the liquid. It should be almost too flavorful to consume on its own, as this will ensure that the steam imparts just the right amount of taste to your shrimp.

Frequently asked questions