Big John'S Steamed Shrimp
Big John's Steamed Shrimp offers tender, flavorful seafood infused with Old Bay seasoning, vinegar, and a hint of pepper. Perfect for casual gatherings or seafood lovers, this simple dish highlights the natural sweetness of shrimp with a zesty, aromatic kick. Serve with lemon wedges and cocktail sauce for added zest.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- In a steamer, combine water and vinegar; bring to a boil.
- Place a layer of shrimp in the steamer basket.
- Sprinkle generously with the seasoning mixture.
- Repeat the process for approximately 3 layers of shrimp.
- Steam for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Gently stir the shrimp, then cover and cook until tender.
- Peel and eat the shrimp.
- Serve with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, marinate the shrimp in the seasoning mixture for 30 minutes before steaming. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning. You can substitute the Old Bay seasoning with a blend of paprika, thyme, and celery salt if needed. Steaming time may vary based on shrimp size, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the steamed shrimp warm with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges for a classic presentation. This dish pairs beautifully with sides like coleslaw or garlic bread, making it a perfect fit for a summer cookout. For an exciting twist, consider serving with a side of Crabmeat-Stuffed Mushrooms for a delightful seafood spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover steamed shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 3-5 minutes until heated through. Avoid using a microwave as it can make the shrimp rubbery. Serve warm with fresh cocktail sauce for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Big John'S Steamed Shrimp contains roughly 108 calories, with 16g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1134mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but it's best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water before cooking. Make sure to pat them dry to avoid excess moisture during steaming.
What type of vinegar works best for steaming shrimp?
White vinegar is commonly used for this recipe due to its mild flavor. However, apple cider vinegar can also add a subtle sweetness. Avoid strong flavored vinegars like balsamic, as they may overpower the shrimp.
How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They usually take about 8 to 10 minutes to steam, but larger shrimp may take a minute or two longer. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).