Shrimps are high in protein, calcium and iodine. . Shrimps are sometimes referred to as prawns which are crustaceans closer to the lobster family though by appearance they are almost indistinguishable from shrimp. Some countries use the two names interchangeably whilst others discern when using fresh water shrimp as opposed to marine shrimp. As such there are dishes that use prawns whilst others will use shrimps. Shrimps are definitely one of the most popular ingredients found in flavorful seafood dishes.
Shrimps can be boiled, fried, broiled or grilled. The more popular recipes include garlic shrimp, shrimp fried rice, coconut shrimp and curried shrimp. In cooking, preparation includes removal of the shrimp’s head, shell, tail and “sand vein” which is actually the digestive tract. When shelling the shrimp hold onto the tail and gently remove the shell around the body. The tail can be completely removed, or left on if desired. Once the shell is removed the shrimp can be “deveined” by inserting a shallow cut down the outer curve of the body to expose the dark looking vein. Use a pointed utensil to remove it. If the tail was removed during shelling the vein can be removed by grasping and pulling it from the tail end. It’s always best to prepare the shrimp whilst it is partially chilled.
When buying shrimp it’s best to select the ones that are not already deveined since deveining causes the shrimp to lose some of its flavor. There are several types of shrimp including Coldwater shrimp, Gulf shrimp, Farm raised shrimp, Imported shrimp and Tiger shrimp. The way a shrimp tastes and its tenderness or lack of is determined by where and how they were grown and the foods they eat, as such the type of shrimp used for a dish must be considered in its preparation. For example grilling is a good cooking method for Tiger shrimp as it enhances its naturally mild flavors.
The grilled shrimp is one of the fastest recipes to prepare. They are accompanied with marinades of marinades of lemon, lemon butter, tomato sauce, red wine vinegar, and wine. Grilling really enhances the flavors of the shrimp and ingredients used in the marinade. This delicious recipe is great for family and friends.
Ingredients
- 5 cloves minced garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce or can of diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2lbs fresh shrimp
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
Directions
- Combine the garlic, olive oil, tomato sauce or tomatoes, chili sauce and red wine vinegar. Use a food processor to emulsify if diced tomatoes are used.
- Add basil, salt and pepper and blend well. Add shrimp to mixture and toss until evenly coated. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat lightly oiled grill. Place shrimp on skewers and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on both sides.
