Cooked or Raw - Shrimp peeling

I'm not very good at peeling shrimp, but I've been practicing lately with raw shrimp. I have the theory that raw shrimp are peeled more easily than cooked.

Every time I try to peel a cooked shrimp, the flesh sticks to the skin. Is there a way to peel cooked shrimp easily?

As for method, I guess it's the same for cooked as for raw.

Take the head off.
Take the tail between thumb and index finger and peel the legs off.
Take the tail and the first section and 'break' the next section lose.
Take the tail off.
Take the first section of the body between the palm and little finger and with the index finger peel the back off the shrimp.

Done.

Do you use the same method as I? Should I apply another method for cooked shrimp?

Edit I've had no luck with another batch of shrimp. This time no method of mine worked, as the skin would stick to the flesh. Is this a problem of freshness (too fresh or not fresh enough)? (Should I post this edit in another question?)

peeling shrimp

Best Answer

I was always taught to take the head and tail between your fingers of each hand, pull it out straight, push together slightly, then pull apart. That should pull the whole carapace back off the body. Then you can pull off the head (and legs if they're still there) and you're done.

However, I've seldom gotten it to work when raw, and less so when cooked.

I agree, cooked shrimp are harder to peel, and just add an unwanted challenge to the diner when included in most dishes.

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Is it easier to peel shrimp raw or cooked?

Shrimp can be peeled either before or after cooking. Many find it easier to peel cooked shrimp. Cooking with the shells on also helps preserve the flavor. To peel shrimp, grasp the legs and tear them off.

Is it better to peel shrimp before or after cooking?

The shells add a lot of flavor to the meat, and they protect it from quickly overcooking. Besides, sitting around a table peeling and eating shrimp is a party right there. But if you do choose to peel the shrimp before cooking, save the shells and freeze them to make seafood stock for chowders and stews.

Is it better to buy peeled or unpeeled shrimp?

Shell-on shrimp are what we recommend. Shelled shrimp are often mangled and unappetizing. Shell-on shrimp also tend to be much cheaper.

How to peel a Green or Raw Prawn

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