I love seafood, and shrimp is one of my all-time favorites. It’s versatile, delicious, and can be cooked in so many different ways. One of the quickest and easiest ways to cook shrimp is by using a microwave. However, knowing the right cooking time is crucial to ensure that the shrimp is perfectly cooked and not overcooked or rubbery. In this article, I will share with you the best cooking time for perfectly cooked raw shrimp in the microwave.
Choosing the Right Shrimp
Before we dive into the cooking time, let’s talk about choosing the right shrimp. When it comes to cooking shrimp, it’s essential to start with high-quality, raw shrimp. Look for shrimp that is firm to the touch, has a mild briny smell, and a translucent color. Avoid shrimp that looks mushy, has a strong fishy odor, or has black spots.
Cooking Time Guidelines
The cooking time for raw shrimp in the microwave depends on the size and quantity of the shrimp. Here are some general guidelines to follow:
For small shrimp (30-40 count per pound), microwave for 1-2 minutes.For medium shrimp (20-30 count per pound), microwave for 2-3 minutes.For large shrimp (15-20 count per pound), microwave for 3-4 minutes.Preparing the Shrimp
Before microwaving the shrimp, it’s important to prepare them properly to ensure even cooking. Here’s how you can do it:
Thaw the shrimp: If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them before cooking. You can thaw shrimp by placing them in a bowl of cold water or in the refrigerator overnight.Devein the shrimp: Use a sharp knife or shrimp deveiner to remove the vein that runs along the back of the shrimp. This step is optional but recommended for a better eating experience.Season the shrimp: Add your preferred seasonings to the shrimp. You can keep it simple with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice, or get creative with spices like paprika, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper.Microwaving the Shrimp
Now that your shrimp are prepared, it’s time to get them cooked in the microwave. Follow these steps:
Place the shrimp in a microwave-safe dish: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in a microwave-safe dish. This will ensure even cooking.Cover the dish: Use a microwave-safe cover or a microwave-safe plate to cover the dish loosely. This will help the shrimp retain their moisture and prevent them from splattering all over the microwave.Set the cooking time: Based on the guidelines mentioned earlier, set the appropriate cooking time for your shrimp. Start with the lowest recommended time and check the shrimp for doneness. Let the shrimp rest for a minute or two after cooking to allow the residual heat to finish cooking them.Check for doneness: Cooked shrimp should be opaque, firm to the touch, and pink in color. Avoid overcooking the shrimp as they can quickly become tough and rubbery.Testing for Doneness
To ensure that your shrimp are perfectly cooked, you can use a few different methods to test for doneness:
Visual inspection: As mentioned earlier, cooked shrimp should be opaque, firm, and pink in color.Internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the shrimp. Cooked shrimp should have an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).Texture test: Gently press the shrimp between your fingers. Cooked shrimp should be firm, yet slightly springy.Conclusion
Microwaving raw shrimp is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this tasty seafood delicacy. Remember to choose high-quality shrimp, prepare them properly, and follow the recommended cooking times. By doing so, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly cooked shrimp every time. So go ahead, give it a try, and elevate your seafood dining experience!
