Instant Pot Peel and Eat Shrimp Recipe

Shrimp: Peeled and deveined, these are the main protein of the dish.

Water: Used to create steam in the instant pot.

Old bay seasoning: A spice blend that adds a unique and flavorful kick to the shrimp.

Lemon: Cut into wedges, it adds a fresh, tangy element when served with the shrimp.

To enhance the flavor of your shrimp, consider marinating them in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and a bit of olive oil for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This will infuse the shrimp with a zesty and aromatic taste, making them even more delicious when served.

• peeled and deveined shrimp - Substitute with peeled and deveined prawns: Prawns have a similar texture and flavor to shrimp, making them an excellent alternative.

• water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth adds more depth of flavor compared to plain water.

• old bay seasoning - Substitute with cajun seasoning: Cajun seasoning provides a similar spicy and savory profile that complements seafood well.

• lemon - Substitute with lime: Lime offers a comparable citrusy tang that pairs nicely with seafood dishes.

• Allow the shrimp to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.

• Transfer the cooled shrimp to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. If using a bag, try to remove as much air as possible to maintain freshness.

• For short-term storage, place the container or bag in the refrigerator. The shrimp will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

• For longer storage, consider freezing the shrimp. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer for about an hour. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Once the shrimp are partially frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

• When ready to use, thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave for a quicker option.

• To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat or briefly steam them. Avoid overcooking to maintain their tender texture.

• If you have leftover lemon wedges, store them separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be used to freshen up the shrimp when serving.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a splash of olive oil or a small pat of butter.
  3. Once the oil or butter is hot, add the leftover shrimp.
  4. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp are heated through.
  5. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the shrimp in a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Add a few drops of water or a splash of lemon juice to keep the shrimp moist.
  3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap.
  4. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to avoid overcooking.
  5. Let it sit for a minute before serving.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
  3. Drizzle a little olive oil or melted butter over the shrimp.
  4. Cover the shrimp with another piece of aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  5. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the shrimp are heated through.
  6. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon.

• Steamer Method:

  1. Fill a pot with a small amount of water and bring it to a boil.
  2. Place the leftover shrimp in a steamer basket.
  3. Lower the basket into the pot, making sure the shrimp are not touching the water.
  4. Cover the pot and steam for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are heated through.
  5. Serve with lemon wedges for added flavor.

• Instant Pot: An electric pressure cooker that will cook the shrimp quickly and evenly.

• Steamer basket: A basket that holds the shrimp above the water, allowing them to steam.

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the water accurately.

• Tablespoon: Used to measure the Old Bay seasoning.

• Knife: Used to cut the lemon into wedges.

• Cutting board: A surface to safely cut the lemon.

• Tongs: Useful for removing the steamer basket from the Instant Pot safely.

• Serving platter: A dish to present the cooked shrimp with lemon wedges.

Prep ingredients in advance: Measure out old bay seasoning and cut the lemon into wedges ahead of time.

Use pre-peeled shrimp: Buy peeled and deveined shrimp to save on prep work.

Quick release method: Utilize the quick release function on the instant pot to speed up cooking.

Steamer basket: Use a steamer basket for easy removal of the shrimp.

Serve immediately: Have your serving dishes ready so you can plate the shrimp as soon as they are done.