How to Keep a Shrimp Tail Straight

A plate of shrimp with straight tails can look attractive. Straight shrimp are typically used in tempura fried shrimp. However, shrimp naturally have a curved appearance and their tails curl up even more when they are cooked. If you would like your shrimp to be straight, rather than curled, you can cut or skewer the shrimp prior to cooking them.

Things You'll Need

• Paring knife
• Skewers

Instructions

Cutting

1. Remove the shells from the shrimp while it is still raw.

2. Cut a couple of small slits, using a paring knife, into the stomach side of each shrimp. The stomach side is the inner curve of the shrimp, while the back side is the outer side where you can find the vein or digestive tract. Cutting these slits will prevent the shrimp from curling up.

3. Dip the shrimp in batter and fry it, or cook it using another of your favorite methods.

Skewering

1. Remove the shells from the shrimp or leave them on, depending on your preference.

2. Soak wooden skewers in water for about an hour. If you use metal skewers, you can skip this step.

3. Insert the skewer into the shrimp at the base of the tail. With the skewer tip remaining inside the shrimp, run the skewer all the way up the shrimp and out of its other side. The skewer should be running up the inside of the shrimp, making it completely straight.

4. Cook the shrimp, then remove the skewer. The shrimp will remain straight.

References

• Today's Family: Japanese Recipes
• Shrimp Magic: Barbecue Shrimp