Old Bay Seasoned Steamed Shrimp Recipe

To ensure your shrimp are perfectly cooked, make sure they are arranged in a single layer in the steamer basket. This allows the steam to circulate evenly around each piece, ensuring uniform cooking. Additionally, avoid overcooking by keeping a close eye on the shrimp; they should turn pink and opaque, which typically takes around 5 minutes. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so it's crucial to remove them from the heat as soon as they are done.

• old bay seasoning - Substitute with homemade spice blend: Combine 1 tablespoon celery salt, ¼ teaspoon paprika, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, ¼ teaspoon dry mustard, ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg, ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon, ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves, and ⅛ teaspoon ground allspice. This blend mimics the complex flavors of Old Bay seasoning.

• old bay seasoning - Substitute with cajun seasoning: Cajun seasoning has a similar spice profile and can provide a comparable flavor with a bit more heat.

• water - Substitute with beer: Using beer can add a deeper, richer flavor to the shrimp, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

• water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds a savory depth to the shrimp, making the dish more flavorful.

• Allow the shrimp to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.

• Transfer the cooled shrimp into an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. If using a bag, try to remove as much air as possible to maintain freshness.

• Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of how long the shrimp has been stored.

• Store the shrimp in the refrigerator if you plan to consume it within 2-3 days. For longer storage, place it in the freezer.

• When freezing, consider portioning the shrimp into smaller servings. This makes it easier to thaw only what you need, reducing waste.

• To thaw frozen shrimp, transfer it to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. For a quicker method, place the sealed bag of shrimp in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed.

• Reheat the shrimp gently to avoid overcooking. You can steam it briefly or warm it in a skillet with a bit of olive oil or butter.

• If you have leftover lemon wedges, store them separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness.

• Avoid refreezing shrimp once it has been thawed, as this can affect the texture and flavor.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan.
  3. Once the oil or butter is hot, add the leftover shrimp.
  4. Stir occasionally, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are heated through.
  5. Serve immediately with a squeeze of lemon juice.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the shrimp in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
  3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
  4. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
  5. Stir and continue microwaving if needed, until the shrimp are heated through.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the shrimp in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Add a small amount of water or broth to the dish.
  4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
  5. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the shrimp are heated through.

• Steaming Method:

  1. Bring a pot of water to a boil.
  2. Place the shrimp in a steamer basket.
  3. Set the basket over the boiling water.
  4. Cover and steam for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are heated through.
  5. Serve immediately with lemon wedges if desired.

• Large pot: Used to bring water to a boil and create steam for cooking the shrimp.

• Steamer basket: Placed over the boiling water to hold the shrimp while they steam.

• Lid: Used to cover the pot and trap steam, ensuring the shrimp cook evenly.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the water and Old Bay seasoning accurately.

• Tongs: Handy for safely placing and removing the steamer basket from the pot.

• Serving platter: For presenting the steamed shrimp once they are cooked.

• Lemon wedges: Optional, for serving alongside the shrimp to add a fresh, zesty flavor.

Use pre-peeled shrimp: Buying pre-peeled and deveined shrimp saves you the time and effort of cleaning them yourself.

Measure seasoning ahead: Pre-measure the Old Bay seasoning and store it in a small container to quickly add to the boiling water.

Boil water in advance: Start boiling the water while you prepare the shrimp to cut down on waiting time.

Steamer basket prep: Have your steamer basket ready and set up over the pot before you start cooking.

Serve with pre-cut lemon wedges: Prepare lemon wedges in advance so you can serve the shrimp immediately.