Shrimp is a versatile and popular ingredient in cooking that can be used to create a wide variety of delicious dishes. Shrimp come in different sizes and varieties, with common types including white shrimp, pink shrimp, and tiger shrimp. The size of shrimp is often indicated by a count per pound, such as “16/20” or “41/50,” meaning there are 16 to 20 or 41 to 50 shrimp per pound, respectively.
Choosing and Preparing Shrimp
When buying shrimp, look for ones that are firm, shiny, and have a mild sea-like odor. Avoid shrimp that have a strong ammonia smell or appear slimy. If possible, choose fresh or frozen shrimp rather than pre-cooked ones for better flavor and texture.
Before cooking, shrimp should be cleaned properly:
- Remove the shell by gently pulling it off. You can leave the tail intact for aesthetic purposes or remove it as per your preference.
- Devein the shrimp by making a shallow cut along its back and removing the black vein using a knife or deveining tool.
- Rinse the shrimp under cold water to remove any remaining debris.
Cooking Shrimp
Shrimp can be cooked using various methods such as boiling, sautéing, grilling, baking, or frying. The cooking time for shrimp is relatively short, usually ranging from 2 to 4 minutes, depending on the size of the shrimp. Overcooking shrimp can make it rubbery, so it’s essential to monitor the cooking process closely.
Shrimp has a mild, sweet taste that pairs well with a variety of flavors. Some popular combinations include:
- Garlic and butter
- Lemon and herbs
- Chili and lime
- Teriyaki and ginger
This simple recipe is all about shrimp sautéed in garlic and butter and then immersed in a creamy white sauce. It is further seasoned with chili flakes, pepper powder, and oregano.
Shrimp can be used in various dishes, such as stir-fries, pasta dishes, salads, soups, tacos, skewers, and more. Some popular shrimp recipes include shrimp scampi, shrimp Alfredo, shrimp curry, shrimp cocktail, or shrimp stir-fry with vegetables.
If you have leftover shrimp, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume them within 1 to 2 days. Avoid leaving cooked shrimp at room temperature for an extended period, as it can lead to bacterial growth. Consider dietary restrictions or allergies when cooking with shrimp, and if you’re unsure, consult a recipe or seek professional guidance.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy butter garlic shrimp is often enjoyed with steamed rice, crusty bread, or pasta to soak up the flavorful sauce. This dish is rich, comforting, and perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to a scrumptious seafood meal. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for added freshness and color. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Creamy Butter Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients:
- Shrimp, cleaned and deveined – 250 g
- Butter – 3 tablespoons
- Vegetable oil – 1 tablespoon
- Finely chopped onions – 1
- Chopped garlic pods – 6
- Milk – 1 ½ cups
- All-purpose flour – 2 teaspoons
- Chili flakes – 1 teaspoon
- Pepper powder – 1/2 teaspoon
- Oregano – 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt – as needed
Method of Preparation:
- Remove the shell, wash, clean, and devein the shrimp.
- Heat butter and oil in a kadai (wok or pan).
- Add chopped garlic and stir for a few seconds.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until the color changes.
- Add cleaned shrimp and salt, then mix well.
- Cover and cook the shrimp for 5 to 6 minutes on medium flame.
- Add all-purpose flour and sauté for a minute.
- Slowly add milk in three portions, stirring continuously. Do not add all the milk at once.
- Stir for 2 to 3 minutes until the texture becomes creamy.
- Check salt and adjust as needed.
- Add chili flakes, pepper powder, and oregano.
- Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Your creamy butter garlic shrimp is ready to serve!
Enjoy this delicious dish with toasted cheese garlic bread or your preferred accompaniment.
Happy cooking and savoring this delightful creamy butter garlic shrimp recipe!
