Instant Pot Peel and Eat Shrimp Recipe

Deveined raw shrimp: These should be shell-on to ensure the best flavor and texture.

Water: Used to create steam in the Instant Pot for cooking the shrimp.

Old Bay seasoning: A classic spice blend that adds a savory, slightly spicy flavor to the shrimp.

Lemon: Sliced to add a fresh, citrusy note to the dish.

To enhance the flavor of your shrimp, consider marinating them in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and a bit of lemon juice for about 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse the shrimp with additional layers of taste, making them even more delicious.

• deveined raw shrimp, shell-on - Substitute with deveined raw shrimp, shell-off: If you prefer not to deal with shells while eating, shell-off shrimp can be used. They will still absorb the flavors well.

• deveined raw shrimp, shell-on - Substitute with cooked shrimp, shell-on: If you are short on time, pre-cooked shrimp can be used. Just reduce the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

• water - Substitute with chicken broth: Adds more depth and flavor to the dish compared to plain water.

• water - Substitute with vegetable broth: A good alternative for a richer flavor, especially if you prefer a vegetarian option.

• old bay seasoning - Substitute with cajun seasoning: Offers a similar blend of spices with a bit more heat.

• old bay seasoning - Substitute with homemade spice blend: Combine paprika, celery salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dry mustard, and ground bay leaves for a homemade version.

• lemon, sliced - Substitute with lime, sliced: Provides a similar citrusy tang with a slightly different flavor profile.

• lemon, sliced - Substitute with orange, sliced: Adds a sweeter citrus note to the dish, offering a unique twist.

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

• Transfer the cooled shrimp to an airtight container. If you have a vacuum sealer, use it to remove as much air as possible, which will help maintain the shrimp's freshness.

• For short-term storage, place the container in the refrigerator. The shrimp will stay fresh for up to 2 days.

• For longer storage, consider freezing the shrimp. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the shrimp are frozen solid.

• Once frozen, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date to keep track of its freshness. The shrimp can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker method, place the sealed bag of shrimp in a bowl of cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes until the shrimp are fully thawed.

• Reheat the shrimp gently to avoid overcooking. You can steam them for a few minutes or quickly sauté them in a bit of olive oil or butter.

• Serve with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of old bay seasoning to revive the flavors.

• 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 is hot, add the leftover shrimp.
  4. Stir occasionally for about 2-3 minutes 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 splash of water or a squeeze of lemon juice to keep them moist.
  3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent.
  4. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
  5. Stir and continue heating if necessary until the shrimp are warmed through.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Spread the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  3. Cover the shrimp with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  4. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the shrimp are heated through.
  5. Serve with extra lemon wedges for added freshness.

• Steaming Method:

  1. Fill a pot with a small amount of water and bring it to a boil.
  2. Place a steamer basket over the boiling water.
  3. Add the shrimp to the steamer basket.
  4. Cover and steam for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are warmed through.
  5. Serve immediately with a squeeze of lemon juice.

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

• Measuring cup: Used to measure the water accurately.

• Tablespoon: Used to measure the Old Bay seasoning.

• Knife: Used to slice the lemon.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to slice the lemon.

• Tongs: Useful for handling the hot shrimp after cooking.

• Serving platter: To present the shrimp attractively for serving.

• Lemon wedges: For garnishing and adding extra flavor when serving.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out old bay seasoning and slice the lemon in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use frozen shrimp: Opt for pre-deveined, shell-on shrimp to save time on preparation.

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

Serve with pre-cut lemon wedges: Have extra lemon wedges ready to serve immediately.