Are you curious about how to incorporate dried shrimp into your meals?
These little crustaceans pack a flavorful punch and can be used in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to soups. But how do you prepare them for cooking?
Do you need to soak them first or can you eat them straight out of the bag?
In this article, we’ll explore the different ways to eat dry shrimp and provide tips on how to make the most of their unique flavor.
So, let’s dive in and discover the delicious world of dried shrimp!
How To Eat Dry Shrimp?
There are several ways to eat dry shrimp, depending on the dish you’re making. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Soak them: If you’re using dried shrimp in a stir-fry or soup, it’s best to soak them first. This will help to soften the shrimp and release more flavor. To soak them, simply cover the shrimp with water and let them sit for 20-30 minutes. For larger shrimp, you may need to soak them for a few hours.
2. Boil them: Another way to prepare dried shrimp is to boil them in salted water. This method is great for making shrimp stock or adding flavor to stews and gravies. To do this, heat up a pot of water with double the amount of salt you would normally use when boiling shrimp for eating. Boil the shrimp for about 10 minutes or until they turn pink and start to float. Remove the shrimp and strain the liquid for later use.
3. Grind them: Dried shrimp can also be ground into a fine powder and used as a seasoning in dishes like fried rice or noodle soups. Simply pulse the dried shrimp in a food processor until they reach your desired consistency.
4. Eat them as a snack: Some people enjoy eating dried shrimp as a snack, much like peanuts or other nuts. You can eat them straight out of the bag or mix them into salads for a crunchy texture.
5. Crush them: In Burmese cuisine, it’s common to crush dried shrimp into small bits and use them as a seasoning in dishes like fried rice or noodle soups. You can do this in a food processor or by hand using a mortar and pestle.
What Are Dry Shrimp And Where Can You Find Them?
Dry shrimp, also known as sun-dried shrimp, are a popular ingredient in many Asian cuisines. They are made by sun-drying fresh shrimp until they are small and shriveled for preservation purposes. The drying process intensifies their flavor and gives them a unique umami taste that is different from fresh shrimp.
Dry shrimp can be found in most Asian supermarkets, either packaged or sold in bulk in Chinatown or other large Asian markets. When purchasing dry shrimp, look for rich orange-colored shrimp. Avoid shrimp that have faded orange color with tiny white specks all over as it indicates that the shrimp has been stored too long or was not properly dried when stored.
Dry shrimp is used extensively in Chinese cuisine, particularly in the northern and southern regions. It is also commonly used in Malaysian, Korean, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisines. In the Philippines, it is known as hibe and is often added to sautéed vegetables to replace more expensive meat.
To use dry shrimp in your dishes, you can soak them in water to soften them before cooking. The soaking time depends on the size of the shrimp and how dry they are to begin with. Alternatively, you can add dry shrimp directly to dishes that involve boiling, poaching, or steaming, such as soups or stews.
Soaking Dry Shrimp: Is It Necessary?
If you’re using dried shrimp in a soup or braised dish, it’s important to pre-soak them before cooking. Soaking helps to soften the shrimp and release more flavor. As a general rule of thumb, dried shrimp should always be soaked before cooking. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.
For example, if you’re using dried shrimp in a recipe that involves boiling, poaching, or steaming, such as in soups, stews, or boiled rice, then you can add the dried shrimp at the beginning of the cooking process without any soaking being needed. This is because the shrimp will have plenty of time to rehydrate and release their flavor during the cooking process.
If you’re using dried shrimp in a stir-fry or other quick-cooking dish, you may be able to get away with not soaking them. Some people enjoy the hard, chewy texture of unsoaked dried shrimp in stir-fries. However, if you do choose to skip the soaking step, keep in mind that your shrimp may not release as much flavor as they would if they were soaked first.
When soaking dried shrimp, simply cover them with water and let them sit until they’re softened to the desired degree. The length of time required will depend on the size of the shrimp and how dry they are to begin with. For smaller varieties, a soaking of no more than ten or fifteen minutes may suffice. However, larger shrimp may need to soak for several hours or even overnight.
Whatever you do, don’t discard the soaking water! This liquid is rich in umami and can be used as dashi in soups and other dishes for extra flavor. Additionally, if you’re planning on doing a lot of preparation work ahead of time, you can simply put the soaking shrimp in a covered container in the fridge and let them sit overnight. This will save you time and effort when it comes time to cook your dish.
How To Cook With Dry Shrimp: Tips And Tricks
Cooking with dry shrimp can add a unique and delicious flavor to your dishes. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the most out of your dried shrimp:
1. Choose the right size: Dried shrimp come in various sizes, from small papery shrimp to large and meaty ones. The size you choose will depend on the dish you’re making. Smaller shrimp work well in soups and braising dishes, while larger shrimp are better for stir-fries or as a standalone ingredient.
2. Store them properly: To keep your dried shrimp fresh, store them in a cool and dry place for at least three days. Make sure to check the color of the shrimp before using them in your dish. They should range from a light tan to a pretty pink color. If they are excessively dry, brittle, or have turned gray or dark brown, it’s best to discard them.
3. Soak them correctly: Soaking dried shrimp before cooking is essential to release their full flavor potential. Depending on the size of the shrimp, you can soak them in cold, warm, or boiling water. For smaller shrimp, soak them for 30 minutes to an hour. For larger shrimp, soak them for a few hours or overnight if possible.
4. Use them sparingly: Dried shrimp are highly concentrated and pack a strong umami punch. As a result, only a small amount is needed to add flavor to your dish. Be careful not to use too much, as it can overpower the other ingredients.
5. Experiment with different dishes: Dried shrimp can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from soups and stews to fried rice and dumplings. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different recipes and find what works best for you.
By following these tips and tricks, you can elevate your cooking game and create delicious dishes using dried shrimp as an ingredient.
Delicious Recipes Using Dry Shrimp As A Key Ingredient
If you have some dried shrimp at home and are looking for delicious ways to use them in your cooking, here are some recipes to try:
1. Thai Fishcakes with Cucumber Salad and Dipping Sauce: These crispy fishcakes are packed with flavor thanks to the addition of dried shrimp. To make the dipping sauce, simply rehydrate some dried shrimp in boiling water and chop them up before adding them to the sauce.
2. Quick Chilli Shrimp Oil: This spicy oil is perfect for adding a kick to rice dishes or noodle soups. To make it, fry some dried shrimp in vegetable oil with a pinch of salt for 5 minutes. Then, add chilli flakes and allow the mixture to cool before transferring it to a glass jar.
3. Shrimp Fried Rice: This classic dish gets an upgrade with the addition of dried shrimp. Simply fry the shrimp in sesame oil before adding beaten egg and cooked rice. Season with soy sauce, spring onions, and chopped coriander.
4. Stir Fried Cabbage with Bacon & Dried Shrimp: This hearty dish is perfect for a cold winter evening. Soak the dried shrimp in water before pounding them in a pestle and mortar. Stir-fry bacon and garlic before adding sliced cabbage, sugar, salt, pepper, and the dried shrimp mixture.
5. Sauteed Shrimp in Soy Sauce: This simple dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Sautee the dried shrimp in hot oil before sprinkling sugar evenly on top. Add a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, and sake (or mirin) before cooking for a few more minutes.
Health Benefits Of Incorporating Dry Shrimp Into Your Diet
Dry shrimp is a delicious and versatile ingredient that offers numerous health benefits when incorporated into your diet. Here are some of the key health benefits of dry shrimp:
1. Rich in Protein: Dry shrimp is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. Protein also helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied, making it a great option for weight management.
2. Low in Calories: Dry shrimp is low in calories, making it an ideal food for those who are trying to lose weight. It contains only about 4 calories per shrimp, making it a healthy and satisfying snack.
3. High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Dry shrimp is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Omega-3 fatty acids can help to lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and improve cholesterol levels.
4. Rich in Antioxidants: Dry shrimp is also rich in antioxidants, which can help to protect your cells against damage from harmful free radicals. Antioxidants can also help to reduce inflammation and lower your risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.
5. Good for Bone Health: Dry shrimp is rich in calcium and phosphorus, two minerals that are essential for strong bones and teeth. These minerals can also help to prevent osteoporosis and other bone-related diseases.
6. Boosts Brain Function: Dry shrimp contains choline, a nutrient that is important for brain function and development. Choline can help to improve memory and cognitive function, making it an important nutrient for people of all ages.
Incorporating dry shrimp into your diet is a great way to boost your overall health and wellbeing. Whether you eat them as a snack or use them as an ingredient in your favorite dishes, dry shrimp is a delicious and nutritious food that offers numerous health benefits.