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close up of boiled shrimp

How to Boil Shrimp

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 113kcal
Author: Shinee
Boiling shrimp is one of the quickest and easiest methods of cooking shrimp. And they're perfect for classic shrimp cocktail, shrimp salsa, for sushi rolls and more! The best part it takes less than 5 minutes.
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Ingredients

  • 1 lb raw extra large shrimp peeled and deveined Note 1
  • 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
  • Lemon wedges optional
  • Black peppercorns optional
  • Bay leaf optional

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of water with aromatics, if using, to a boil. (TIP: About 2qt/2L of water is enough for 1-2lbs of shrimp.)
  • Add shrimp and simmer for about 2 minutes, or until shrimp turn opaque and pink. Immediately transfer the cooked shrimp into a bowl of ice water. (Note: Cooking time depends on the size of the shrimp. 2 minutes is perfect for 26/30 count shrimp.)

Notes

Note 1: Extra large shrimp is usually labeled as 26/30 count. Frozen EZ peel deveined shrimp is my go-to, as they’re super easy to peel and prep. Just make sure to thaw frozen shrimp before cooking.

Nutrition

Calories: 113kcal
Protein: 23g
Fat: 2g
Sodium: 1462mg