Marinating shrimp and varying the boiling liquid can add a broad range of enticing flavors to a healthy meal. Before boiling, you can season your shrimp with dry Cajun spices or marinate them in a sauce of your choosing. As some of the marinade may dissolve when boiled, dry spices will work better when boiling. Add a sachet of spice to the boiling water to add further flavor.
Step 1
Choose shrimp with the shells still on for boiling. If possible, choose shrimp that have been deveined, which means they have had the digestive system on the back side of the shrimp removed.
Step 2
Add spices or marinade to your shrimp. If not cooking immediately, leave shrimp in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
Step 3
Add 4 cups of water to a pan along with spices, and bring to a boil. A simple base liquid can include salt, pepper and lemon to taste, although variations could include beer, wine, bay leaves and other spices.
Step 4
Add shrimp to the pan, taking care not to splash boiling water. Only cook about a half pound of shrimp at a time to avoid overcooking them.
Step 5
Bring water back to a boil and cook shrimp for three minutes. Strain and place in a serving dish. Continue cooking the rest of your shrimp.
Tips and Warnings
- Boiled shrimp are commonly served with seafood sauce containing ketchup and fresh horseradish.
Things You'll Need
- 1 lb. deveined shrimp, with shells
- 4 c water
- Pan
- Salt
- Pepper
- Lemon
- Beer (optional)
- Wine (optional)
- Bay leaves (optional)
- Strainer
- Serving dish
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