Aside from lobsters and oysters, one of the most loved seafoods in the world is shrimp! Whether you like it steamed, fried, sauteed, buttered or grilled, shrimp simply adds luxury to every meal and celebration.
However, we often encounter times when we reheat shrimps, and they just turn chewy and rubbery. But don’t worry, as we asked a professional chef for his favorite way to reheat shrimps, as well as some more options to fit your needs!
Should I Reheat Shrimps?
Sure, you may eat leftover shrimp cold, but to reheat shrimps it is a better way to bring those delightful flavors back to life. However, if you want to reheat shrimps, use modest heat as excessive heat may cause it to overcook and turn rubbery.
Is it necessary to peel shell-on shrimp before reheating?
Yes! It’s ideal to leave the shell on shell-on shrimp, whether from a seafood boil or a peel-and-eat appetizer, so the juices stay within the shellfish while it warms up. Remove the shells and dig in after they’ve been reheated and slightly cooled.
Chef’s top recommendation: Reheat Shrimps on the Stovetop
If you’re looking for the best way on how to reheat shrimps, nothing beats your cooktop. According to Chef Daniel P. Craig, founder of Kitchen Deets, it enables for more exact temperature control and allows you to keep an eye on the shellfish. Here’s his simple procedure:
- Melt butter in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to the skillet.
- Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet.
- Heat for 2 to 3 minutes, flipping regularly, until thoroughly cooked.
Fastest Way to Reheat Shrimps: The Microwave!
In a pinch, this method works great, but be aware that it may leave a fishy odor in your microwave. Craig recommends the following:
- Place the shrimp in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover the seafood with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap pierced with a small hole.
- Microwave in 20- to 30-second increments on medium power. To avoid overcooking, check the shrimp at each interval.
- When the shrimp reaches the appropriate temperature, remove from the microwave. It should be warm but not heated.
Craving for Crispy? Reheat shrimps with the air fryer!
If you have leftover fried shrimp, the air fryer is your best chance – they cook in as little as 2 minutes. Here’s how it’s done:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place the shrimp in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 2 to 4 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Slice into one shrimp to check for doneness. It should be completely heated and no longer cold in the center.
No air fryer? Reheat shrimps using the oven!
Your oven, like an air fryer, circulates heat evenly over seafood, ensuring that it is heated all the way through without drying out. Here’s what you should do:
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place the shrimp on a baking sheet that has been lined with parchment paper.
- Heat the fish in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Keep an eye on the shrimp and take them out as soon as they’re done.
How Do I Know if the Cooked Shrimp Is Bad?
Check that your shellfish hasn’t gone bad before reheating it. Cooked seafood should be refrigerated and consumed within 3 to 4 days, according to the USDA. However, if the shrimp is mushy, has a strong odor, and/or is a poor color, you should throw it rather than risking food poisoning symptoms such as stomach aches and nausea.