One of the more popular dishes of the south is a shrimp boil. Shrimp boils are very similar to a low country boil. This pot of food is the perfect combination of ingredients to feed the entire family or group of friends in one pot. Nothing is more simple than to monitor a single dish rather than juggling many items to roast, bake, or sautee. Because of its simplicity, it’s perfect for allowing the chef to socialize rather than be glued to the kitchen. What is a shrimp boil, and how do you cook one?

Why Is A Shrimp Boil Popular In The South? 

One of the primary reasons shrimp boils common to the southern states like Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina is the availability of fresh shrimp. Shrimp are prevalent in these states’ waters and can be sourced easily from the local seafood market or direct from the fisherman. 

What Types of Shrimp Can You Get In The Low Country? 

The two types of shrimp that are native to the region are brown and white shrimp. Brown shrimp are typically smaller in size, while white shrimp are much larger. Each offers slightly different taste characteristics. The brown shrimp is described as more earthy tasting compared to the white, which is mild and sweet. 

When the shrimp are purchased, they are sold in various forms to include head on or head off. The price per pound is higher if the heads of the shrimp are removed. Consider the time involved in preparing shrimp to be cooked. Peeling shrimp, especially with a large quantity, is labor-intensive. While buying them peeled will avoid some trouble, they also must be deveined. Deveining is the process of removing the vein that runs along the center of the bottom and top of the crustacean. 

How Much Shrimp Do I Need For A Shrimp Boil? 

To determine how much shrimp is necessary, consider the number of guests you will be having for dinner. This pot is filled with other nutritious vegetables and starch. On average, a half-pound of shrimp is sufficient per person. 

How do you cook a shrimp boil?

First, take into account what is needed to cook a shrimp boil. Most of these items are commonly found in the kitchen.

1. A pot up to 30 quarts depending on the number of people being served.
2. Cutting board.
3. Large knife for chopping.

What are the ingredients needed to prepare a shrimp boil?

The recipe allows four servings. Add additional ingredients if the party you’re serving is larger than four. 

1. Two pounds of peeled and deveined shrimp
2. Four ears of corn husked and cut in half width-wise
3. Two pounds of baby red potatoes cleaned
4. Two white onions cut in quarters
5. Seven cloves diced fresh garlic
6. Eight sprigs of fresh thyme tied together
7. Half to three-quarters cup of Old Bay seasoning depending on flavor preference
8. One lemon cut in half and a second lemon cut in wedges

How do you put all of these ingredients together to form the shrimp boil?

1. Take the pot and fill it with five quarts of warm or hot water. 
2. Add the lemon juice by squeezing in the lemon that was cut in half.
3. Drop in the diced onion, diced garlic, thyme, and Old Bay seasoning to your liking.
4. Bring everything to boil and let it simmer for about five minutes. 
5. Drop in the potatoes carefully and cook them for around five minutes and then add the corn. Cook for about a total of ten minutes or until the potatoes are soft in the center.
6. Add the shrimp to the simmering water and let them cook for three to four minutes.
7. Carefully drain the water from the pot and place the cooked meal in a serving dish.
8. Have plates or bowls on hand and allow the guests to scoop what they wish with a serving spoon.
9. Set out sliced lemons and hot sauce to spice things up.

The meal is pretty simple and comes out delicious. One-pot meals are the easiest to make while allowing for the opportunity to socialize with friends and family. Shrimp boils, while similar to Lowcountry boils, are slightly different. The next time you are looking for a local southern treat to serve your company, consider making a shrimp boil with seafood sourced from your backyard.