Creative Ways to Spice Up Boiled Shrimp

Boiled shrimp are a versatile and delightful ingredient, but did you know that there are numerous ways to add some zing to them? Whether you're serving them as a quick meal or as an appetizer, these tips will help you elevate your shrimp to new heights.

Adding Flavor with Seasonings

Why limit yourself to just plain boiled shrimp when you can add some excitement? Adding a few key ingredients can really transform your shrimp into a gourmet delicacy. Begin by quartering a lemon and slicing a couple of bay leaves. You might also want to include a few sprigs of fresh dill and parsley for a pop of freshness. For a bit of heat, sprinkle a few shakes of red pepper flakes for that perfect balance.

Exploring Marinating Options

Making shrimp even more flavorful doesn't have to be complicated. You can try marinating your shrimp before boiling or even after. For a cumin-based marinade, mix some olive oil with ground cumin, garlic, and a touch of salt. Alternatively, you could opt for a lemon and lime with garlic marinade, which infuses the shrimp with fresh, tangy flavors. Another popular choice is to boil the shrimp and then coat them with butter and Old Bay seasoning. Another fun option is to BBQ the shrimp and sprinkle Johnny’s Dock seasoning on top for an added burst of flavor.

Seasoning Suggestions

Some might suggest using a non-salt herb seasoning, but most people recommend creating a well-seasoned sauce to go with your shrimp. Choose from a variety of options such as chili sauce, BBQ sauce, butter and Parmesan sauce, or cajun sauce, or even incorporate salsa verde for a fresh twist. A well-seasoned sauce will not only add flavor but also make your shrimp more appetizing.

Frying Shrimp for a Deeper Flavor

If you prefer frying your shrimp, you can achieve a delicious golden-brown texture by using a mix of cracker meal and flour. Add a dash of seasoned salt, and a pinch of lemon pepper to give your shrimp an extra kick. Fry the shrimp until they are golden brown, and serve them with tartar sauce or red sauce for dipping. There's no better way to enjoy your shrimp fry than with a side of tasty dipping sauce.

The Best Shrimp Spice: Old Bay

One seasoning that reigns supreme in the world of shrimp is Old Bay. It's a blend of spices that perfectly compliments the natural sweetness and texture of shrimp. Sprinkle some Old Bay over your boiled shrimp, and it adds both flavor and that unmistakable taste that elevates the dish. Even with the shells on, the seasoning on the outside of the shrimp rubs off, seasoning your fingers and enhancing your eating experience. If you have cooked your shrimp without seasoning and missed the boat, you can still add flavor by creating a sauce, such as a sweet chili or any other type of sauce, to glaze the shrimp externally. Be creative and experiment with different flavors until you find the one you like the most!

A Final Thought

While it might be a bit late to add seasoning to your already-boiled shrimp, you can still enhance their flavor by adding a sauce. Just be sure to not add too much, as you want the flavors to stick to the shrimp without overpowering them. The key is to be creative and have fun, as the best shrimp are the ones that are well-seasoned and have that special something that sets them apart.