How to Devein and Clean Shrimp

Fresh shrimp usually needs to be cleaned and deveined.

Although shrimp can be bought already cleaned and deveined, it's not difficult to do the cleaning yourself. The deveining process removes the vein on the back of the shrimp. Some people take it out just so the shrimp is visually appealing, but the vein can change the taste of the shrimp.

Things You'll Need

• Paring knife

Instructions

1. Use to knife to make a small slice down the back of the shrimp.

2. Pull off the small legs of the shrimp first. Peel back and remove the shell. Run the shrimp under water and slide off any remaining shell. Leave the tail on if you plan to make shrimp cocktails.

3. Hold the shrimp in one hand with the tail end facing you and the curved side up.

4. Using the knife or a deveining tool, make a shallow cut down the curved back of the shrimp. This should expose the black digestive tract, or "vein."

5. Put the shrimp under running water. Slip the tip of a knife or a toothpick under the vein and pull the vein out. You can also remove it with your fingers.

Tips & Warnings

• Leave the shell on if you plan to boil the shrimp. The shell will help retain flavor and moisture.

References

• Free-Shrimp-Recipes