Name: how to steam shrimp in instant pot?
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: Fresh or frozen shrimp (peeled and deveined) - about 1 pound; Water - 1 cup; Optional: Lemon wedges, garlic, bay leaves, or Old Bay seasoning for added flavor; Instant pot

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Step by Step Guide: how to steam shrimp in instant pot

Steaming shrimp in an Instant Pot is a quick and convenient way to prepare this delicious seafood dish.

With its high-pressure cooking capabilities, the Instant Pot ensures that your shrimp turn out perfectly tender and flavorful every time.

Follow this detailed guide to steam shrimp effortlessly in your Instant Pot.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Fresh or frozen shrimp (peeled and deveined) – about 1 pound
Water – 1 cup
Optional: Lemon wedges, garlic, bay leaves, or Old Bay seasoning for added flavor

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. If you’re using frozen shrimp, there’s no need to thaw them, but make sure they are peeled and deveined.

Step 2: Add Water to the Instant Pot

Pour 1 cup of water into the inner pot of the Instant Pot. This water is essential for creating the steam that will cook the shrimp.

Step 3: Insert the Steamer Basket

Place a metal or silicone steamer basket inside the Instant Pot. This will keep the shrimp above the water level, allowing them to steam rather than boil.

Step 4: Season the Shrimp (Optional)

If you want to enhance the flavor, you can season the shrimp before placing them in the steamer basket. You can toss the shrimp with a little salt, pepper, garlic, or your preferred seasoning.

Step 5: Load the Shrimp into the Steamer Basket

Carefully arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the steamer basket. This ensures even cooking. You can stack them slightly, but avoid overcrowding for best results.

Step 6: Secure the Instant Pot Lid

Close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the pressure valve is set to the sealing position.

Step 7: Set the Cooking Time

Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function on your Instant Pot and set the cooking time. For fresh shrimp, set the timer for 1 to 2 minutes; for frozen shrimp, set it for 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 8: Natural Release

Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for about 2-3 minutes. After that, perform a quick release by carefully turning the pressure valve to venting to release any remaining steam.

Step 9: Remove the Shrimp

Open the lid and carefully lift the steamer basket out of the Instant Pot. The shrimp should be pink and opaque, indicating they are cooked to perfection.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the steamed shrimp to a serving dish. You can serve them plain or with lemon wedges, dipping sauces, or alongside your favorite side dishes.

Pro Tip

For an extra boost of flavor, try adding aromatics to the water before steaming. Ingredients like lemon slices, garlic cloves, or fresh herbs can infuse the shrimp with additional taste while they cook, elevating your dish to a new level.

Steaming shrimp in an Instant Pot is a hassle-free method that yields delicious results. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy perfectly cooked shrimp that are great for a variety of meals or snacks.

Understand the benefits of using an Instant Pot for steaming shrimp

1. In Proteins

Shrimp is a great source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. For example, a 3-ounce serving of shrimp provides about 20 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for athletes or those looking to build muscle.

2. Low in Calories

Shrimp is low in calories, which can help you maintain or lose weight. For instance, a 3-ounce cooked shrimp serving has only about 84 calories, making it a guilt-free addition to your meals.

3. Rich in Nutrients

They are packed with vital nutrients like vitamins B12, D, and selenium. For example, seafood lovers can enjoy shrimp not only for its taste but also for its role in maintaining healthy nerves and red blood cells thanks to its B12 content.

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Shrimp contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. Including shrimp in your diet, such as in a shrimp salad, can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.

5. Antioxidant Properties

Shrimp contains the antioxidant astaxanthin, which is known to combat oxidative stress. For instance, enjoying grilled shrimp with veggies can provide a healthy dose of antioxidants that fight inflammation.

6. Versatile in Cooking

Shrimp can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups to salads to pasta. For example, shrimp tacos are a fun way to add variety and flavor to your meals without much hassle.

7. Quick to Cook

Shrimp cooks very quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. For instance, you can whip up a shrimp stir-fry in under 10 minutes, providing a nutritious meal in no time.

8. Low in Fat

Shrimp is low in saturated fat, which is beneficial for cardiovascular health. A 3-ounce serving has less than 1 gram of saturated fat, making it a heart-healthy option when compared to many red meats.

9. Supports Weight Loss

Due to its high protein and low-calorie nature, eating shrimp can help with weight management. For example, incorporating shrimp into a salad can make for a filling yet low-calorie meal.

10. Enhances Mood

Shrimp contains nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain health and can improve mood. Eating shrimp can be a delicious way to include mood-boosting nutrients in your diet, such as in a shrimp pasta dish.

By including shrimp in your diet, you can reap these numerous health benefits while enjoying a tasty and versatile ingredient!

Choose between fresh or frozen shrimp

1. Shelf Life

Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp typically has a much shorter shelf life. It can last in the refrigerator for only 1-2 days if properly stored.
Example: If you buy fresh shrimp for a weekend dinner, be sure to cook it by Sunday evening to avoid spoilage.

Frozen Shrimp: Frozen shrimp, on the other hand, can last for several months in the freezer, maintaining its quality as long as it’s properly sealed.
Example: You can purchase a large bag of frozen shrimp and keep it on hand for quick meals without worrying about it going bad quickly.

Best for Steaming: Frozen shrimp, when thawed properly, is often the best choice for steaming as it retains its quality longer.

2. Taste and Texture

Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp has a slightly sweeter taste and firmer texture, making it prized by chefs and seafood enthusiasts.
Example: Cooking fresh shrimp in a simple garlic butter sauce allows its natural sweetness to shine.

Frozen Shrimp: Although frozen shrimp can be delicious, it’s often blanched (partially cooked) before freezing, which can slightly alter its texture.
Example: Using frozen shrimp in a stir-fry can still yield tasty results, but you may notice a softer texture compared to fresh shrimp.

Best for Steaming: Fresh shrimp is ideal for those seeking the most authentic taste and texture while steaming.

3. Convenience

Fresh Shrimp: While delightful, fresh shrimp often requires more effort. You need to be mindful of when to cook it and how to keep it refrigerated.
Example: If you’re hosting a dinner and want fresh shrimp for a shrimp boil, you need to plan your trip to the market carefully.

Frozen Shrimp: Frozen shrimp is extremely convenient. You can keep it in your freezer and use it whenever you like, allowing for spontaneous meal planning.
Example: If you’re hungry for shrimp tacos on an unplanned weeknight, just pull some frozen shrimp from the freezer, thaw, and cook.

Best for Steaming: Frozen shrimp offers greater convenience, making it easy to steam a meal with little advance preparation.

4. Cost

Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp tends to be more expensive due to higher transportation and storage costs. Prices can vary depending on seasonality.
Example: A local seafood market might sell fresh shrimp at a premium, especially if they’re locally sourced.

Frozen Shrimp: Generally, frozen shrimp is more budget-friendly and widely available in different sizes and varieties.
Example: Supermarkets usually offer frozen shrimp in bulk, often making it a cost-effective option for families.

Best for Steaming: Frozen shrimp is typically the best choice if you’re looking to save money without compromising on quality.

5. Nutritional Value

Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is often touted for its high nutritional value, including omega-3 fatty acids and protein.
Example: A fresh shrimp salad can offer a nutritious meal packed with essential nutrients.

Frozen Shrimp: While some nutrients may decrease during the freezing process, frozen shrimp still retains most of its nutritional value unless it has been stored improperly.
Example: A frozen shrimp stir-fry made with lots of vegetables can still be a healthy and balanced dish.

Best for Steaming: Both fresh and frozen shrimp are nutritious; however, fresh shrimp may provide a more vibrant flavor profile.

In conclusion, whether you choose fresh or frozen shrimp will depend on your preferences and needs.

Prepare the shrimp before cooking

Step 1: Thawing Frozen Shrimp

If you’re using frozen shrimp, it’s important to thaw them correctly to maintain their freshness and flavor. Here’s how to do it:

Overnight Method: Place the frozen shrimp in the refrigerator for 8-12 hours before cooking. This allows them to thaw gradually.

Quick Thaw: If you’re short on time, place the shrimp in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Change the water halfway through to keep it cold.

Step 2: Rinse the Shrimp

Once thawed, rinse the shrimp under cold running water. This helps wash away any ice crystals and impurities for cleaner shrimp.

Step 3: Peeling Shrimp: To Peel or Not to Peel?

Depending on your recipe and preference, you may want to peel the shrimp. Here’s how to decide:

With Shells On: If you prefer a richer flavor during steaming, you might want to leave the shells on. They can impart additional taste while cooking.

Peeled Shrimp: If you’re looking for convenience or plan to use the shrimp in a dish where shells might be unwelcome, it’s advisable to peel them.

How to Peel Shrimp:

Remove the Head: If your shrimp still have their heads, twist them off gently.

Peel the Shell: Starting from the underside (the belly), insert your fingers and pull the shell away from the shrimp, removing it in sections.

Devein the Shrimp: Use a knife to make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp to expose the vein. Use the tip of the knife or your fingers to remove it.

Step 4: Pat Dry

After rinsing or peeling, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the shrimp cook evenly in the Instant Pot.

Step 5: Season (Optional)

Feel free to season your shrimp with salt, pepper, or any other spices you love. This adds additional flavor and enhances the overall taste.

Now your shrimp are prepped and ready to be steamed to perfection in your Instant Pot!

Tips for avoiding rubbery shrimp texture

1. Don’t Overcook

Example: Shrimp cooks quickly—usually in just 2-5 minutes in an Instant Pot. Keep a close eye on the timer. If you’re cooking large shrimp, aim for 2-3 minutes; smaller shrimp need only 1-2 minutes. Always use the lowest time suggested to prevent overcooking.

2. Use the Right Pressure Setting

Example: When steaming shrimp in an Instant Pot, use the “Steam” setting to ensure a gentler cooking process. Unlike other settings that might cook too aggressively, the steam function helps create the right environment for tender shrimp.

3. Brine Before Cooking

Example: Soak your shrimp in a simple brine of salt and water for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps the shrimp retain moisture during cooking, leading to a juicier result instead of a rubbery texture.

4. Ensure Freshness

Example: Always try to use the freshest shrimp possible. Fresh shrimp will be more tender and flavorful compared to frozen or outdated shrimp. When purchasing, look for firm bodies and a mild ocean smell, avoiding any shrimp that appears slimy or has a strong fishy odor.

how to steam shrimp in instant pot?

5. Use Ice Bath After Cooking

Example: Once your shrimp are done cooking, immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water for a few minutes. This shocking technique stops the cooking process instantly, preventing any residual heat from making the shrimp rubbery.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your shrimp come out supple and delicious every time!