Cooking frozen shrimp on the stovetop is a straightforward process. Here's a simple method to cook frozen shrimp:
Ingredients:
- Frozen shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Garlic powder or minced garlic (optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
- Your favorite seasoning (optional, e.g., paprika, cayenne pepper, etc.)
Instructions:
Thawing the Shrimp (optional): If you have time, it's best to thaw the frozen shrimp before cooking. You can do this by placing the shrimp in a colander and running cold water over them for a few minutes. Alternatively, you can leave them in the refrigerator overnight to thaw slowly.
Seasoning the Shrimp: If you like, you can season the shrimp with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or any other seasoning of your choice. Toss the thawed shrimp in the seasoning to coat them evenly. If you are cooking directly from frozen, you can still season them after cooking.
Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil or a small amount of butter to the pan and let it heat up.
Add the Shrimp: Once the pan is hot, carefully add the shrimp in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the shrimp to steam rather than sear.
Cook the Shrimp: Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink and slightly browned. Flip the shrimp over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fully pink and opaque. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the shrimp and whether they were thawed or frozen.
Check for Doneness: To ensure the shrimp are fully cooked, cut one open to make sure it's opaque and no longer translucent.
Serve: Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the pan and serve immediately. You can squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp for added flavor.
Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the size of the shrimp and the heat of your stovetop. It's essential not to overcook shrimp as they can become tough and rubbery. Always keep an eye on them while cooking to achieve the perfect texture. Enjoy your delicious cooked shrimp!