If you’re a seafood lover, then shrimp probably holds a special place in your heart. With its widespread popularity having spread beyond borders, shrimp has become a culinary delight all over the world. From classic scampi to seafood boils, chowders and even grilled garlic shrimp, this shellfish has become a staple in several countries worldwide.
Join us as we dive into the world of this culinary delight, exploring its universal appeal and the ways it tantalizes taste buds.
Shrimp Consumption in the U.S.
Not only is shrimp one of the most valuable seafood commodities in the world but it is also one of the most desirable. Shrimp is the most consumed seafood globally with the National Marine Fisheries Service, estimating that approximately 9 billion pounds of shrimp are consumed around the world annually. In the United States alone, the average per capita consumption of shrimp is around 4 pounds per year. This means that the average American consumes around 16-20 full servings of shrimp annually. Next, we will cover how many shrimp to serve per person based on the size of the shrimp.
Shrimp Serving Amounts (Per Person and Type of Shrimp)
- Jumbo Shrimp – In a one-pound bag of jumbo shrimp, there are around 22-30 shrimp. I recommend approximately 6-7 shrimp per 3oz serving.
- Medium Shrimp – In a one-pound bag of medium shrimp, there are around 41-50 shrimp. I recommend about 10-15 shrimp per 3oz serving.
- Popcorn (Small) Shrimp – In a one-pound bag of popcorn shrimp, there are around 80-90 shrimp. I recommend about 18 shrimp per 3oz serving.
Note: If you are a shrimp lover (or are hosting shrimp lovers like me), it would probably be best to bump the serving portions up to about 4 – 5 ounces per person.
Most Common Types of Shrimp
Shrimp might seem like a pretty straight-forward food choice, but with there being over 300 species of shrimp, choosing the right type can make a world of difference. Let’s cut through the confusion and check out some of the most popular types of shrimp so that you know exactly what to shop for:
- Rock Shrimp – Rock shrimp are on the smaller side with a hard shell, making them perfect for grilling. They have a meaty and buttery flavor but can be difficult to peel and eat which is why they’re now mostly sold after being peeled and deveined.
- Pink Shrimp – Pink shrimp are large, plump shrimp with a natural sweet and succulent flavor. They can be boiled, grilled, pan-fried, or steamed.
- Tiger Shrimp – Tiger shrimp are the largest species of shrimp sold for human consumption. Their name comes from the red and white striped pattern that appears after cooking them. Farmed tiger shrimp have almost a mild and bland flavor, but their wild-caught counterparts have a bold and briny flavor. As with all species of shrimp, I recommend opting for the wild-caught version whenever possible.
- Spot Shrimp – Spot shrimp are one of the easiest-to-cook varieties of shrimps available on the market. They have a sweet and buttery flavor and can be sauteed, steamed, grilled, or broiled in the oven.
Popular Ways to Cook and Prepare Shrimp
One of the main reasons for the widespread popularity of shrimp is because of the number of ways one can cook and enjoy this delicacy. Here are some of the most popular ways to cook shrimp:
Frying: There’s nothing like the satisfying crunch of fried shrimp. The flavorful meat goes perfectly with a crisp batter or breadcrumb coating. Think of crunchy shrimp tempura.
Sautéing: Since shrimp takes a fairly short amount of time to cook, sautéing is a great option to prepare shrimp for dishes like pasta, fried rice etc.
Grilling: Grilling is perfect for those jumbo or tiger shrimp. It leaves behind a perfect char, slightly bitter, moist and succulent meat.
Poaching: This is a less common but one of the best ways to cook shrimp. Shrimp are usually poached with the shells on to ensure delicious meat that’s not overcooked.
Health Benefits of Shrimp
Below are just a few reasons why shrimp is an excellent choice as part of a healthy diet:
High in Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
Low in Calories: Shrimp is relatively low in calories, making it a good option for those looking to manage their weight while still obtaining essential nutrients.
Rich in Nutrients: Shrimp contains various essential nutrients, including vitamins such as vitamin B12, vitamin D, and vitamin E, as well as minerals like selenium, copper, and zinc.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Shrimp is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), which are beneficial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation in the body.
Savoring the Endless Charm of Shrimp
Shrimp has become a symbol of culinary craftsmanship, delighting foodies worldwide. Whether it’s served with a light salad, in a pasta dish, or with gnocchi or quinoa, the distinct flavor of shrimp transcends culinary borders. Its versatility shines in countless cuisines, offering a taste of the sea in every bite.
