Steaming Shrimp: How Long Does It Take?

Steamed shrimp is a quick, easy, and delicious dish that can be served as an appetizer or a main course. The cooking time for steamed shrimp depends on the size of the shrimp and the desired level of doneness, but it typically ranges from 2 to 6 minutes. It is important to monitor the shape and colour of the shrimp during cooking to prevent overcooking, which can result in a rubbery texture.

How to steam shrimp without a steamer basket

If you don't have a steamer basket, there are several ways to steam shrimp. Here are some methods you can try:

• Use a metal or wire mesh colander: Simply place the colander inside a large saucepan or pot, making sure the water level is below the bottom of the colander.
• Make a makeshift steamer basket: You can create a steamer basket by using a stainless mesh strainer or colander placed into a pot.
• Use a heat-safe bowl and plate: Turn a heat-safe bowl upside down in your pot and place a heavy, heat-safe plate on top. This creates an impromptu steamer.
• Use a pot with potatoes and corn on the cob: Layer potatoes and corn on the cob inside your pot, along with water or another liquid. Place the shrimp on top of the vegetables, which will keep them elevated above the liquid.
• Poach the shrimp: If you don't have a steamer basket, you can also poach the shrimp by simmering them in water for about four minutes. Keep an eye on the shrimp and turn off the heat once they turn bright pink and firm.

Once you have your steaming setup ready, it's time to cook the shrimp. Here's a general guide on cooking times:

• Standard-size shrimp: For standard-size shrimp, it will take about 3-6 minutes to cook them thoroughly.
• Jumbo or colossal shrimp: For larger shrimp, add an additional 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.
• Check for doneness: Shrimp are done when they curl up into a "C" shape and turn opaque and bright pink in color. They should also be firm to the touch but still slightly bouncy.

How long to steam shrimp

Steaming shrimp is a great way to get the most flavour out of the shellfish. It's easy to steam with the right tools, and yields tender shrimp in no time.

Steaming shrimp takes 4-6 minutes, depending on the size of the shrimp. You'll know they're done when they've turned pink and are opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they'll become rubbery.

How to steam shrimp

First, place a steamer basket inside a large pot. Fill the pot with about 1 inch of water, making sure there are at least two inches between the bottom of the basket and the waterline. You can also add aromatics to the steaming liquid, such as onions, celery, carrots, garlic, and ginger.

Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil over high heat. Then, reduce the heat to medium and add the shrimp.

Steam the shrimp, covered, for 4 to 6 minutes, or until they are opaque and cooked through. If you're using frozen shrimp, give them a stir as they cook if they are frozen together. This will ensure they cook evenly.

Once they're done, transfer the shrimp to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process. Let them sit for about 5 minutes, then drain and serve.

How to tell when shrimp are overcooked

It's important to be able to tell when shrimp are overcooked, as this can ruin the texture and flavour. Here are some ways to identify overcooked shrimp:

Shape

One way to identify overcooked shrimp is by observing their shape. Raw shrimp tend to be quite flexible, straight, and long in appearance. As they cook, the muscle in the shrimp contracts, causing them to curl up. Overcooked shrimp will be tightly curled into an "O" shape. The ideal shape for cooked shrimp is a gentle "C" curl.

Colour

Checking the colour of the shrimp is another simple way to determine if they are overcooked. Raw shrimp have a grey, translucent appearance. When cooked, they should turn opaque and display pops of pink or red. Overcooked shrimp will be a solid white-pink colour, lacking any translucency.

Texture

Evaluating the texture of the shrimp is another sensory method to identify overcooked shrimp. Undercooked shrimp will feel fleshy and pliable, while overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery, making them difficult to chew. Perfectly cooked shrimp should fall somewhere in between the two.

Temperature

For a more scientific approach, you can use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the shrimp. Shrimp are considered safe for consumption when they reach an internal temperature of 120°F. However, keep in mind that thermometers may give slightly inaccurate readings, so it's always good to use this method in conjunction with the other indicators.

Timing

Lastly, it's important to keep an eye on the timing when cooking shrimp. They cook very quickly, so it's easy to overdo it. Depending on their size, shrimp usually take around 4 to 6 minutes to steam. Larger shrimp will take a little longer, while smaller ones will be faster.

Remember, it's always better to slightly undercook your shrimp than to overcook them. You can quickly pop them back into the steamer if they need a little more time.

What to serve with steamed shrimp

Steamed shrimp is a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer or a main course. Here are some ideas for what to serve with steamed shrimp:

As an Appetizer

Steamed shrimp can be served as a simple appetizer with melted butter, cocktail sauce, or tartar sauce for dipping. Lemon wedges are also a great addition, as the acidity of the lemon juice can enhance the flavour of the shrimp.

As a Main Course

If you're serving steamed shrimp as a main course, there are numerous side dishes that can complement the dish. Here are some options:

• Salads: A fresh salad can be a great pairing with steamed shrimp. Options such as a Roquefort pear salad, a Greek salad, a spinach and orzo salad, or a simple tomato, cucumber, and avocado salad can add a refreshing element to the meal.
• Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or grilled fruit and vegetable kabobs can add a healthy and tasty side to your steamed shrimp.
• Starchy Sides: Potatoes are a classic side dish and can be prepared in various ways, such as oven-roasted red potatoes, air-fryer smashed potatoes, or potato onion pierogi. Other starchy options include easy coconut rice, cilantro lime rice, or baked sweet potatoes.
• Pasta: Shrimp goes well with pasta, and there are several options to choose from. Lemon butter pasta, pesto penne pasta, or a shrimp and burst cherry tomato pasta can be delicious accompaniments to your steamed shrimp.
• Breads: Cheesy garlic bread or rosemary cornbread can be a tasty side to soak up any juices or dips you serve with the steamed shrimp.

How to store steamed shrimp

Storing steamed shrimp is a straightforward process, but it's important to act quickly as shrimp is delicate and doesn't stay fresh for long. Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1: Cool the Shrimp

After steaming, it's essential to stop the cooking process by quickly cooling the shrimp. Create an ice water bath by filling a large bowl with ice and water. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the shrimp to the ice bath, and let them sit for about 5 minutes. This step helps prevent overcooking and locks in the shrimp's flavour and texture.

Step 2: Dry the Shrimp

Once the shrimp are cooled, remove them from the ice bath and pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture will help prevent the growth of bacteria and ensure the shrimp stays fresh for longer.

Step 3: Choose Your Storage Container

You can store the shrimp in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Make sure the container or wrapping is suitable for food storage and creates a seal to minimise air exposure.

Step 4: Refrigerate or Freeze

For short-term storage, place the shrimp in the refrigerator. Set the temperature to 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4°C) or lower. Steamed shrimp will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

If you want to store the shrimp for a more extended period, consider freezing them. Wrapped tightly in freezer-grade plastic or foil, cooked shrimp can be frozen for up to 3 months while maintaining their best quality. Place the shrimp in the freezer as soon as possible after cooking to maximise their shelf life.

Step 5: Defrost and Reheat

When you're ready to enjoy your shrimp, take them out of the freezer and defrost them in the refrigerator. This slow thawing process helps prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Avoid defrosting shrimp at room temperature or under warm water, as this can promote bacterial growth.

Once defrosted, the shrimp can be eaten cold or briefly reheated. Some quick and easy ways to enjoy your steamed shrimp include:

• Shrimp cocktail with a zesty cocktail sauce
• Adding to a quesadilla with cheese and salsa
• Enhancing a bowl of clam chowder or potato soup
• As a generous topping for a salad
• Stirring into fried rice with green onions and carrots
• Mixing with pasta and sauce

Frequently asked questions