How to Prepare Fresh Shimp for Freezing

Shrimp - while very tasty - can be a little tricky. Follow these steps to keep your shrimp fresh and delicious.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• raw shrimp
• stockpot
• water
• salt
• freezer

1. Purchase your shrimp. Most all shrimp in your grocery store have been previously frozen (unless you are buying it off a shrimp boat) - it is standard practice for shrimp to be frozen immediately. It is then shipped to your store, where they may thaw and cook it. The best shrimp to buy would be raw frozen shrimp - with shells on.

2. Cook your shrimp. If you purchase frozen shrimp, you can take it home and store it in your freezer until you are ready to prepare it. Once you thaw the shrimp - you MUST cook it before freezing again. Fill your stockpot with enough water to cover all shrimp. Salt your water heavily. Put on stove and bring to boil. Once water is boiling, reduce heat and cover. When shrimp have turned pink all over, they are cooked. Remove and place in cool water.

3. Freeze the shrimp. Place the shrimp in a freezer safe container or bag, marked with the date. This will keep for a month or so. When you are ready to eat, remove them from the freezer and thaw in the refrigerator. Enjoy with cocktail sauce!

Tips & Warnings

• Do not thaw the shrimp at room temperature - always thaw in the fridge or under cold water.
• If you shrimp smells of ammonia or has a strong "fishy" odor, it may be bad.