Smaller shrimp are sweet and better for sandwiches while larger ones are ideal for sauces.
Shrimp can be a delicious treat when coupled with any number of different flavors. When buying shrimp, opt for fresh whenever possible, as it ensures a better taste. The best shrimp are those still in their shells, with a firm and shiny coat. Likewise, their eyes should be glossy and their smell like that of salty seawater. Shrimp that meet this criteria burst with flavor and work well with any number of delicious sauces.
Butter
A simple, yet satisfying, sauce for shrimp is one where they are simply saut ed in melted butter and served over a bed of white rice. Some opt to marinade the shrimp in a number of ingredients, like sherry, minced garlic, olive oil, soy sauce, hot sauce and even Cajun spices. Shrimp scampi, a popular dish, calls for salt, butter, garlic, Vermouth, lemon juice and parsley. For those opting for a simple yet filling dish, salt and garlic work nicely.
Asian-Inspired
Many shrimp sauces are inspired by the delightfully nuanced flavors of Asian cuisine. For just such a treat, try a cocktail sauce with ginger, Serrano chili, soy sauce, radishes and lime juice, or a coconut-covered shrimp served alongside a peanut sauce, garlic, ginger, fish sauce and coconut milk. Finally, for tasty and easy fare, stir fry shrimp and any number of veggies in sesame oil and oyster sauce before serving over a bed of white rice.
Cream Sauce
Shrimp in a creamy white sauce has been known to whet the appetite of many. Instead of a tried and true Alfredo, opt for a sauce of heavy cream, sherry, shallots and paprika. Another delicious variation uses heavy cream, white wine, lemon juice, fresh dill, parsley, chives and tarragon. A shrimp and heavy cream sauce works especially well with pasta and a variety of Italian spices.
Curry Sauce
Whether Asia, India or the Caribbean is your inspiration, there are a number of options available to make a shrimp and curry dish just to your liking. A Thai-inspired version calls for coconut milk, red chilies and lemongrass, while an Indian one with coconut milk, curry powder and fresh ginger works well with basmati rice. For a Jamaican spin on shrimp curry, use curry powder, garlic, onion, sweet pepper and a bit of finely chopped scotch bonnet pepper. White rice is a great complement.
Tags: coconut milk, heavy cream, well with, curry powder, lemon juice, over white, over white rice