Boiled Shrimp A La Bob
Juicy boiled shrimp infused with garlic, onion, celery, and lemon deliver a flavorful, spicy seafood experience perfect for casual gatherings or seafood lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and devein the shrimp.
- In a large pot, bring at least 6 quarts of water to a boil.
- Add salt, chopped onion, garlic, and celery to the boiling water.
- Cut lemon into quarters, squeeze the juice into the water, and add the lemon pieces.
- Add bay leaf, seasoning bag, and cayenne pepper to taste.
- Bring the water to a boil and cook for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add the shrimp and cook for exactly 3 minutes, then turn off the heat.
- Let the shrimp soak in the hot water for 20 minutes.
- Drain the shrimp and serve hot or refrigerate.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh shrimp and adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference. If you don't have celery, try using fennel for a similar crunch and flavor. Adding a splash of white wine can enhance the broth. To make the dish even more flavorful, consider adding Old Bay seasoning if you have it on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the boiled shrimp hot with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges for a classic touch. They pair beautifully with a refreshing salad, like a light Tuna Royal, or alongside crusty bread for dipping. Consider serving with a side of garlic butter for extra flavor, or toss them into a seafood pasta dish for a delightful meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat or briefly microwave them, being careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become tough. They can also be enjoyed cold in salads or sandwiches.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Boiled Shrimp A La Bob contains roughly 913 calories, with 33g protein, 155g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (228% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (196% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 850mg per serving (37% 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 be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. For best results, leave them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain their texture.
What can I do with leftover shrimp?
Leftover shrimp can be used in various dishes. Try adding them to a seafood pasta like Shrimp And Noodle Casserole, mixing them into a salad, or incorporating them into tacos for a quick meal. Their versatility makes them a great addition to many recipes.
How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?
Shrimp are done cooking when they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes about 3 minutes in boiling water. Additionally, they should curl into a 'C' shape. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery and lose their delicate flavor.
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).