Whole Pound Shrimp Recipe
Make Whole Pound Shrimp Recipe in just 45m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Shrimp
Brine (optional but recommended)
Cooking / Finishing
Method
Brine (optional)
- 1
Prepare brine
In a medium bowl or container, dissolve 2 tbs kosher salt and 1 tbs granulated sugar into 4 cups cold water. Stir until fully dissolved.
- 2
Brine shrimp
Add the whole pound of shrimp to the brine, submerging them. Chill in the refrigerator for 15–30 minutes. This firms the flesh and seasons evenly. After brining, drain the shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels.
Cook and Finish
- 3
Heat pan
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tbs olive oil or melted butter and let it get hot and shimmering (but not smoking).
- 4
Sear shrimp
Add the drained, patted-dry shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1.5–2 minutes on the first side without moving them, until the edges turn pink and the shell begins to blush. Flip the shrimp and cook another 1–2 minutes on the other side until the flesh is opaque and the internal color is firm. Total cook time for 1 lb whole shrimp should be about 3–4 minutes depending on size.
- 5
- 6
Finish with lemon and herbs
Remove the pan from heat. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the shrimp, reserve the other half for serving. Sprinkle 2 tbs chopped fresh parsley, 1 tsp salt (or to taste), 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper, and 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes if using. Toss gently to coat.
- 7