Shrimp is a versatile and delicious seafood that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. But when it comes to cooking with frozen shrimp, determining the right amount to use can be a bit tricky.
Do you weigh them before or after they’re thawed? And how many pieces of shrimp make up 8 ounces?
In this article, we’ll break down the different sizes and counts of shrimp, as well as provide some helpful tips for cooking with this tasty crustacean.
So whether you’re making a shrimp cocktail or a seafood stir-fry, read on to learn how to get the perfect amount of shrimp for your recipe.
How Many Pieces Of Shrimp Is 8 Oz?
When it comes to determining how many pieces of shrimp make up 8 ounces, it’s important to understand the different sizes and counts of shrimp.
In the United States, shrimp are sold by count per pound, with the number on the label indicating the number of shrimp in the package. For example, if the label reads 21/25, there should be between 21 to 25 shrimp in each pound.
To get 8 ounces of shrimp, you can simply count out the appropriate number of shrimp based on their size and count per pound. For large shrimp, which are typically labeled as 26/30, you would need approximately 15 shrimp to make up 8 ounces.
It’s important to note that the size designation of shrimp can vary between stores and vendors. To ensure you’re getting the right amount of shrimp for your recipe, it’s best to shop according to count and calculate how many shrimp you’ll need for each person.
Understanding Shrimp Sizes And Counts
Shrimp sizes and counts can be confusing, but understanding them is crucial when it comes to cooking with shrimp. Shrimp sizes are denoted by numbers, such as 21/25 or U/15, with the smaller number indicating the range of shrimp in a pound. The “U” in the count means that there are “under” that number of shrimp in a pound.
Different recipes call for different sizes of shrimp, with smaller shrimp typically found in salads and larger shrimp used as appetizers or a main course. However, the size designations are not standardized, so it’s best to pay attention to the shrimp count instead.
Shrimp counts are always measured by how many there are in a pound, and the larger the shrimp, the smaller the count numbers get. Shrimp heads and shells also play a factor in determining count amounts, with head-on shrimp considered two counts larger and unpeeled shrimp with no heads considered one count larger.
Here is a list of commonly used sizes and their corresponding counts per pound:
– Colossal: U-10 (under ten colossal shrimp per pound)
– Jumbo: 11/15 (11 to 15 jumbo shrimp per pound)
– Extra-Large: 16/20
– Large: 21/30
– Medium: 31/35
– Small: 36/45
It’s important to keep in mind that while there are often many sizes in between, these are the most commonly used sizes. Additionally, the choice of words used to describe the size of the shrimp is not determined by any defined industry standard.
When it comes to cooking with shrimp, it’s best to shop according to count and calculate how many shrimp you’ll need for each person. While plain boiled shrimp are low in fat and calories, deep-fried or butter-rich garlic shrimp will increase that number significantly. So, make sure to pay attention to the size and count of your shrimp to ensure you’re getting the right amount for your recipe.
How To Measure 8 Oz Of Shrimp
Measuring 8 ounces of shrimp can be done in a few different ways depending on whether you’re using fresh or frozen shrimp. If you’re using fresh shrimp, it’s best to weigh them on a kitchen scale to ensure accuracy. Eight ounces of shelled, cooked baby shrimp will equal approximately 2.3 cups.
When it comes to frozen shrimp, it’s best to count out the appropriate number of shrimp rather than weighing them. Frozen shrimp are individually encased in icy shells that add weight, so if a recipe calls for 8 ounces of shrimp, counting out the appropriate number of shrimp based on their size and count per pound is the best way to ensure you have enough post-thaw.
For example, if you’re using large shrimp which are typically labeled as 26/30, you would need approximately 15 shrimp to make up 8 ounces. However, it’s important to note that the size designation of shrimp can vary between stores and vendors, so it’s best to shop according to count and calculate how many shrimp you’ll need for each person.
If you’re using really tiny shrimp (71+ per pound), it’s better to measure by the cup or ounce rather than counting each individual shrimp. A typical serving of shrimp is 3 ounces, which can be 12 to 20 small shrimp per person depending on their size.
Cooking Tips For Shrimp Dishes
When it comes to cooking shrimp, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind to ensure that you end up with perfectly cooked, juicy and tender shrimp every time.
First and foremost, make sure that your shrimp are deveined before cooking. This will ensure that they cook evenly and have a better texture.
For the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to sear or sauté shrimp on high heat. This will give them a nice crust on the outside while keeping them juicy and tender on the inside. Grilling is also a great option for cooking shrimp quickly with high heat.
If you’re grilling shrimp, it’s best to cook them in their shells whenever possible, as this will add flavor to the meat and protect it from overcooking. If you do choose to peel the shrimp before cooking, save the shells to make seafood stock for chowders and stews.
When cooking shrimp on the stove, make sure to heat your pan or skillet before adding the shrimp. This will help them cook evenly and prevent sticking. It’s also important to season your shrimp well with salt and pepper or your preferred seasoning mixture.
When sautéing shrimp, be sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will cause the shrimp to steam rather than sear, resulting in a less desirable texture. Cook them in batches if needed.
Finally, be careful not to overcook your shrimp. Shrimp cook quickly with high heat, so it’s important to keep an eye on them and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and are no longer translucent.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to cook up delicious shrimp dishes every time!
Buying And Storing Frozen Shrimp
When it comes to buying and storing frozen shrimp, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to note that frozen shrimp are individually encased in icy shells that add weight. This means that if a recipe calls for a specific weight of shrimp, it’s best to count out the number of shrimp you need instead of weighing them.
When shopping for frozen shrimp, look for the size designation and count per pound on the label. Larger shrimp, such as “colossal” or “jumbo,” will often be marked as “U-10,” indicating that 10 or fewer shrimp usually make up one pound. For smaller shrimp sizes, labels will be marked with a range like “26/30” to indicate the number of shrimp that will make up a pound.
When storing frozen shrimp, keep them in their original packaging or transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Shrimp can be stored in the freezer for up to six months.
To thaw frozen shrimp, place them in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for a few minutes until they are no longer icy. Avoid thawing shrimp at room temperature or in warm water, as this can lead to bacterial growth.
It’s also important to note that while plain boiled shrimp are low in fat and calories, deep-fried or butter-rich garlic shrimp will increase the calorie and fat content significantly. Keep this in mind when selecting recipes and serving sizes.
Recipes To Try With 8 Oz Of Shrimp
If you have 8 ounces of shrimp on hand and are looking for some delicious recipe ideas, here are a few to try:
1. Shrimp Scampi: Melt butter with olive oil in a skillet, add garlic and onion, then sauté until tender. Add fully cooked shrimp and heat through, then mix in lemon juice. Serve over linguine for a classic and flavorful dish.
2. Shrimp Tacos: Brush frozen popcorn shrimp with melted butter and seasonings, then bake according to package instructions. Serve in warm corn tortillas with shredded cabbage and a sour cream and salsa sauce.
3. Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo: This pasta dish is loaded with flavor from Cajun seasoning, chicken, and shrimp smothered in a creamy Alfredo sauce. Pair with fettuccine for a hearty meal.
4. Garlic Shrimp: Cook raw shrimp in a skillet with garlic, butter, and lemon juice for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner. Serve over cauliflower rice, spinach, or arugula for a low-carb option.
5. Bloody Mary Shrimp Cocktails: Mix crushed tomatoes with horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, celery, and vodka to make the cocktail sauce. Serve with cold cooked jumbo shrimp on the edges of martini glasses for a fun appetizer or party dish.
No matter which recipe you choose, 8 ounces of shrimp can go a long way in adding flavor and protein to your meals.
