Yes, You Can… Microwave and Steam Shrimp – Longmeadow Farm

I’ll never forget the time my sister decided to host a last-minute seafood boil for her birthday. Everything was prepped, the crawfish were practically begging to be spiced, and then…disaster struck. The steamer pot was MIA, likely borrowed by a neighbor for some forgotten summer cookout. A minor panic set in. I remembered my grandmother, a resourceful woman from Longmeadow Farm, once telling me about her microwave shrimp trick. Skeptical but desperate, we gave it a whirl, and to our utter amazement, perfectly cooked, succulent shrimp emerged. It saved the day and became a family legend.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 minutes
• Total Time: 8 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Dietary Type: Pescatarian

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp (can be shelled, or not shelled, we preferred not)
• 2 tablespoons butter (or margarine up to 3 tablespoons can be used)
• 2 tablespoons water (or chicken broth)
• 1 tablespoon Old Bay Seasoning (or any seafood seasoning)
• 1 small onion, sliced very thinly (optional)
• 1 garlic clove, minced fine (optional)
• Course ground pepper (optional)
• Seafood cocktail sauce, for dipping
• Toothpick, for stabbing (testing doneness)

Equipment Needed

• Microwave-safe dish or casserole dish
• Plastic wrap

Instructions

1. In your microwave-safe dish or casserole dish, combine the butter, water (or chicken broth), Old Bay Seasoning (or your chosen seafood seasoning), optional thinly sliced onion, optional minced garlic, and optional course ground pepper.

2. Heat this mixture in the microwave on high for 30 to 60 seconds, or until the butter is melted.

3. Carefully remove the dish from the microwave. Be mindful of steam!

4. Add the shrimp in a single layer. If using, distribute the onion and garlic evenly over the shrimp.

5. Add extra seasonings if desired. This is your chance to tailor the flavor.

6. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap, making sure to vent one side slightly to allow steam to escape. This is important to prevent the dish from exploding and to ensure even cooking.

7. Set your microwave timer for 3 minutes and cook on high.

8. After 3 minutes, carefully check the shrimp for doneness. They should be pink and opaque throughout. The toothpick test works well here; insert a toothpick into the thickest part of a shrimp. If it comes out clean, they’re done.

9. If the shrimp are not fully cooked, return the dish to the microwave and cook in 30-second intervals, checking after each interval until they are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook, as this will make them rubbery.

10. Remove the shrimp from the microwave and let them cool slightly.

11. Serve the shrimp immediately on top of crackers, with extra seasonings, and dipping sauces.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overcrowd the dish: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding will result in unevenly cooked shrimp, with some being overcooked and others undercooked.
• Watch the venting: The small vent in the plastic wrap is crucial. Too much venting will cause the shrimp to steam rather than microwave, and you may need to adjust cooking times. No venting, and you risk a messy explosion.
• Consider the size of your shrimp: Cooking times will vary depending on the size of the shrimp. Small shrimp will cook faster than jumbo shrimp. Adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure they’re fully thawed before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels for better results.
• Flavor Infusion: For even more flavor, try marinating the shrimp in the butter and seasoning mixture for 15-30 minutes before microwaving. This allows the flavors to penetrate the shrimp more deeply.
• Spice it up: Kick things up a notch by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve your perfectly microwaved shrimp immediately while they’re still warm and juicy. Arrange them artfully on a platter with lemon wedges and a bowl of your favorite seafood cocktail sauce. Alternatively, you can use them in shrimp tacos, salads, or pasta dishes.

Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed cold, but you can gently reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds if desired. Be careful not to overheat, as this will make them tough. Do not leave shrimp at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	171.4 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	69 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	7.7 g	11%
Saturated Fat	4 g	20%
Cholesterol	188.1 mg	62%
Sodium	209.3 mg	8%
Total Carbohydrate	1 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0 g	0%
Sugars	0 g	0%
Protein	23.1 g	46%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Old Bay seasoning to your liking, or substitute with other seafood seasonings like Cajun spice or Creole seasoning for a different flavor profile.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives can add a burst of freshness. Sprinkle them over the shrimp after cooking.
• Citrus: A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice can brighten up the flavor and add a zesty touch.
• Garlic Lovers: Double the amount of garlic for a more intense garlic flavor. You can also use roasted garlic for a sweeter, milder taste.
• Healthy Swap: Substitute the butter with olive oil or coconut oil for a healthier option.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels for best results.

Q: How do I know when the shrimp are done?
A: The shrimp should be pink and opaque throughout. You can also use a toothpick to check for doneness.

Q: Can I use a different type of seasoning?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite seafood seasonings. Cajun, Creole, or even Italian seasoning can be used.

Q: Can I cook the shrimp without the plastic wrap?
A: It’s not recommended, as the plastic wrap helps to trap the steam and cook the shrimp evenly. If you don’t want to use plastic wrap, you can cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted.

Q: What if my microwave is more or less powerful?
A: Microwave power varies. Always check the shrimp after the initial cooking time and adjust accordingly, cooking in 30-second intervals until done.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t cook delicious shrimp in the microwave. With this simple and foolproof method, you can enjoy perfectly cooked, succulent shrimp in just minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal, a party appetizer, or whenever you’re craving a taste of the sea. So go ahead, give it a try, and prepare to be amazed! And if you do try it, be sure to let me know how it turns out. Maybe pair them with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc for the perfect light bite. Happy cooking!