Argentine red shrimp are wildly popular for their sweet, lobster-like flavor and delicate texture. However, before cooking these tasty crustaceans, it’s important to properly clean them.
Cleaning helps remove the inedible parts and any impurities ensuring the best flavor and food safety. Follow this simple, step-by-step guide to learn how to easily clean Argentine red shrimp at home.
Argentine red shrimp (Pleoticus muelleri) are a cold-water species found in the Atlantic Ocean near Argentina. They live at depths of up to 600 feet.
These shrimp are prized for their bright red shells and tails. Their meat is sweet, mild, and tender compared to many other shrimp varieties.
When fresh Argentine red shrimp have a translucent appearance and will curl tightly when cooked. Frozen and thawed shrimp should also curl up during cooking.
Step 1: Rinse the Shrimp
Rinsing helps remove any loose debris and thaw frozen shrimp. Place the shrimp in a colander and rinse under a steady stream of cool water.
Gently rub each shrimp between your fingers to dislodge any dirt or particulate matter. Rinsing also allows you to inspect the shrimp for any damage or signs of spoilage.
Step 2: Remove the Head
To detach the head, hold the body firmly in one hand and twist the head off with your other hand. You can also snip it off using kitchen shears.
Removing the head eliminates an inedible part that can add an unpleasant texture. For aesthetic purposes, leave the last shell segment and tail intact if desired.
Step 3: Peel Off the Shell
Next, grasp the sides of the shell with both hands. Peel it off in segments, working from head to tail. The shell protects the delicate meat inside, so work gently.
You can also use scissors to cut through the shell along the back. This exposes the vein for easy removal. The shells add flavor, so you can cook shrimp with shells on if you prefer.
Step 4: Take Off the Legs
The legs can get stuck in your teeth when eating shrimp. To remove them, simply pinch each leg at the base near the body and twist lightly.
Repeat this quick twisting motion for each leg. The legs should detach easily. Discard the legs before cooking the shrimp.
Step 5: Devein the Shrimp
Deveining removes the digestive tract which can harbor grit. There are two methods:
Cutting method: Use a paring knife to make a shallow cut along the back. Lift out the grayish vein with the tip of the knife. Rinse away any debris.
Skewer method: Insert a skewer into the vein cavity and hook the vein to gently pull it out. This leaves the shell intact.
Step 6: Rinse Again
Give the peeled, deveined shrimp another quick rinse under cold water. This removes any remaining veins or shell fragments after cleaning.
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels before cooking so they brown properly. Your shrimp are now ready for your favorite recipes!
Tips for Buying Argentine Red Shrimp
Follow these tips when purchasing raw Argentine red shrimp:
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Look for plump, semi-translucent shrimp with bright reddish shells. Avoid any with blackened, mushy spots.
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Opt for fresh or well-frozen, not thawed/refrozen shrimp. The shells should be firmly attached.
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Smell the shrimp. They should have a mild, briny aroma without any ammonia notes.
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For best value, buy shell-on shrimp and clean them yourself. Peeled shrimp are typically more expensive.
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Choose sustainably caught shrimp with MSC, ASC, or BAP certification whenever possible.
Storing and Handling Argentine Red Shrimp
Proper storage and handling prevents waste and keeps shrimp fresh longer:
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Store shrimp chilled below 40°F, tightly wrapped. Use within 2 days for raw shrimp.
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Freeze extra peeled shrimp in a single layer in freezer bags. They’ll keep 6-9 months.
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Thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the fridge. Don’t thaw at room temperature or in hot water.
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Cooked shrimp lasts 3-4 days refrigerated. It’s best consumed within 1-2 days for peak freshness.
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Always wash hands, prep tools, and surfaces that touched raw shrimp to prevent bacteria spread.
Cooking Your Fresh Argentine Red Shrimp
These versatile shrimp work in many quick and easy recipes. Here are some cooking methods to try:
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Sauté: Cook briefly in olive oil and garlic. Sprinkle with parsley.
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Grill: Toss in olive oil and grill 2-3 minutes per side over high heat.
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Bake: Coat with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and herbs. Bake at 400°F until opaque.
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Broil: Brush with butter and broil 4 minutes on high, turning once.
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Fry: Dredge in flour and quickly deep fry at 350°F for 2-3 minutes.
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Boil: Boil briefly in salted water or seafood broth until just curled.
Don’t overcook these tender shrimp. Cook just until flesh turns opaque, 1-3 minutes typically.
Enjoying Your Freshly Cleaned Shrimp
Now that you know how to properly clean Argentine red shrimp, you can enjoy their mildly sweet taste and tender texture.
Cleaning your own shrimp rather than buying pre-peeled lets you control quality. Plus, you can save the shells to make flavorful shrimp stock.
Follow this simple process to remove the inedible parts while keeping the shells on for added flavor during cooking if desired.
Rinsing, deveining, and peeling only takes minutes. Then you can savor the delicious taste of shrimp cooked to tender perfection.
More Delicious Recipes Featuring Argentine Red Shrimp
Once youve mastered cooking Argentine red shrimp with the shell on, the culinary possibilities are endless. From refreshing salads to hearty chowders, these recipes utilize the robust flavor and firm texture of the shrimp. The Argentine Red Shrimp and Avocado Salad is a healthy, light meal. The Argentine Red Shrimp and Corn Chowder will keep you warm. For a unique taste, try the Grilled Argentine Red Shrimp with Garlic-Lemon Butter. It has a smoky, tangy flavor that’s great for eating outside. Each recipe provides a unique way to enjoy this versatile seafood, enhancing your skills and expanding your menu. Share your tips and experiences cooking Argentine red shrimp with the shell on in the.
Cooking Techniques for Argentine Red Shrimp
There are different ways to cook Argentine Red Shrimp, so you can pick the one that works best for you. Here are a few popular techniques:
To infuse the shrimp with a smoky charred flavor, grilling is an excellent option. Make a marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Stick the shrimp on skewers to keep them in place. Grill over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
If you prefer a quick and easy stovetop method, sautéing is the way to go. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. After you add the shrimp, cook them for two to three minutes on each side, until they are fully cooked and a beautiful pink color.
Boiling shrimp is a classic cooking technique that maintains their natural flavors. Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they are firm and opaque. Drain the shrimp and serve them hot or chilled.
Wild Argentine Red Shrimp Peeling process
FAQ
Do you have to devein Argentine red shrimp?
Are red shrimp from Argentina safe to eat?
What’s the difference between Red Argentine shrimp and regular shrimp?
How do you clean Argentine red shrimp?
Cleaning Argentine red shrimp with shell on is essential to remove any impurities and ensure a delicious taste. Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water to remove any dirt or sand. Then, carefully peel back the shell, leaving the tail intact.
Can I eat raw shrimp?
Eating raw shrimp is not recommended. Raw shrimp can contain bacteria that can cause food poisoning. It is also a good source of purines, which can trigger gout attacks. If you want to eat shrimp, cook it thoroughly to reduce the risk of food poisoning and to help prevent gout attacks. Cook shrimp until it is opaque and pink to ensure that it is safe to eat.
How to cook Argentine red shrimp?
Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they are firm and opaque. Drain the shrimp and serve them hot or chilled. Now that your Argentine Red Shrimp are perfectly cooked, it’s time to think about how to serve them. Here are some delicious ideas:
Can you eat the shell of Argentine red shrimp?
Yes, you can eat the shell of Argentine red shrimp if it is cooked properly. The shell becomes crispy and adds a delicious texture to the shrimp. However, some people prefer to remove the shell before eating for convenience. It is a matter of personal preference, so feel free to enjoy the shrimp with or without the shell.