How to Prepare Pre-Steamed Shrimp

Shrimp sold in stores is often pre-steamed, or you may need to reheat leftover shrimp. When preparing pre-cooked shrimp, thaw them if necessary, and then use an oven, microwave, or stove to warm them up. Pre-steamed shrimp can be used in various dishes such as pasta or salads.

If possible, thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight. If the shrimp are frozen after being steamed, it is best to remove them from the freezer and place them in the fridge. They will thaw overnight, and by morning, they will be ready to reheat. This method is usually the most effective, so it’s recommended to thaw shrimp in the fridge whenever possible.

Defrost the shrimp in cold water for about 15 minutes. If you don't have time to defrost them overnight in the fridge, you can place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water, put it in the sink, and turn on the tap to a low stream of cool water. Let it sit in the sink for about 15 minutes to thaw.

Remove the black vein from the shrimp's back. Most shrimp that have been fully cooked already have the vein removed, but if you still see a black line running along the shrimp's back, use scissors to cut through the shell on its back, then gently pull the vein out with the scissors.

Reheat the shrimp in the microwave on high for about 1-2 minutes. Arrange the shrimp in a microwave-safe dish in a single layer, ensuring they don't touch each other. Pour a little water into the dish and cover it with plastic wrap. Heat the shrimp on high for 1-2 minutes.

• If the shrimp are not warm enough, you can heat them for an additional 30 seconds.
• Be cautious as the shrimp will be very hot, so let them cool down slightly before serving.

Steam the seasoned shrimp on the stove. If the shrimp have been seasoned, steaming is an ideal way to retain their flavor. Add water to a pot and place a steamer basket or colander inside. Arrange the shrimp in the steamer or colander, then place the pot on the stove and bring it to a boil. Steam the shrimp until they start to release a fragrant aroma.

• Be sure not to overcrowd the shrimp in the steamer and ensure they do not touch the water.

Bake shrimp coated in batter or shredded coconut in the oven. If the shrimp are coated in batter or shredded coconut, it's best to reheat them in the oven. Wrap the shrimp loosely in aluminum foil and place them on a baking tray. Bake the shrimp for 15 minutes at 150°C (300°F).

Heat the shrimp in a skillet. Pour enough oil into a skillet to coat the bottom, then place it over medium heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the pan and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side.

Mix shrimp into pasta dishes. Shrimp make an excellent addition to a simple pasta dish. Cook your favorite type of pasta and toss it with seasonings like Parmesan cheese, garlic, and dried basil for added flavor. Add the reheated shrimp to the pasta for a nutritious meal.

• For an extra nutritional boost, you can also add sautéed vegetables to the dish.

Combine shrimp with garlic butter. A little garlic and butter can enhance the shrimp with a delicate but delicious flavor. Add about a tablespoon of butter and a few chopped garlic cloves to the shrimp. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated in the garlic butter, then enjoy.

Serve shrimp as a snack. If you're hosting a party, heat up some steamed shrimp and arrange them on a plate next to cocktail sauce. Your guests can enjoy munching on shrimp with cocktail sauce all night long.

Mix shrimp into a salad. This salad makes for a perfect lunch or dinner option. To add more protein, toss a handful of shrimp into your salad. This way, your salad becomes more energy-packed and helps curb unnecessary snacking throughout the day.