How Long Do You Boil Shrimp?

[texasgirl]

How long do you boil shrimp??

[abjcooking]

Just for a few minutes until they just turn pink. About 5-7 minutes

[abjcooking]

Depending on the size of the shrimp (if they are small) it could be a little less time

[marmalady]

I don't actually 'boil' at all. I mix a seasoning mixture of Old bay, lemons cut up, and bay leaf with water, bring that to a boil and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes; then drop the shrimp in, turn off the heat, cover and let sit for 5 or so minutes, til all the shrimp are pink . Make sure you have enough water to cover all the shrimp, and you might want to peek and give the shrimp a stir to make sure they're all cooking.


I guarantee this'll be the most tender shrimp you've ever had!

PS - If the shrimp are very cold to start, you can bring the water back up to a simmer after you've added the shrimp, then turn off heat and cover.

[kitchenelf]

I will have to agree with marmalady's timing. Big shrimp don't even take that long - maybe 2-3 minutes with the water at a rolling boil.

Once they float to the surface remove them - they will still continue cooking once you take them out.

[texasgirl]

Thank you, all!!

[jennyema]

Once again, I'm with Marm!


I dont boil.. I get the water boiling and infused with flavor, add the shrimp, take OFF the heat and let sit until done. How long depends on the size of the shrimp.

If you are serving them hot, remember to account for carry-over cooking time.

BOILING protein makes it tough.

[Otter]

If you want a good change of pace, try pan frying them. I heat some butter in the pan, season with Old Bay seasoning and give 'em a few minutes on each side. As the others said, until they turn pink (shrimp are accommodating that way - they have sort of a built-in thermometer).

[ironchef]

Or braise them in Olive Oil or Butter. Not the cheapest way or healthiest way, but lots of flavor.

[lutzzz]

Something I was taught by my next door neighbor lady, that helps me anyway.. is the old "C" and "O" rule.

That is.. cook your shrimp/prawns whatever way you cook them (other than on a skewer on the grill of course), until they JUST form a "C".. if they curl up more, into an "O",..they will be overdone.