Have you ever wondered what a mantis shrimp would taste like if you were ever bold enough to try one? This alien creature routinely resides in shallow tropical waters around the world and is known for its incredible colors, temperature-sensitive eyesight, and lightning fast strikes.
Taste buds might be curious about this exotic dish, but it can seem just as intimidating to cook. In this blog post we’ll explore the flavors of mantis shrimp and help home cooks create their own delicious versions of popular dishes featuring these ocean-dwellers!
What is Mantis Shrimp?
The Mantis Shrimp is a fascinating creature that lives in shallow waters around the world. Although they may look harmless, these small creatures are incredibly powerful and can deliver a punch stronger than a 22-caliber bullet.
Mantis shrimps have incredibly advanced eyes that enable them to see colors we cannot even perceive, and they can also use their claws to crack open mollusks, crabs, and even shells.
These crustaceans are also known for their mesmerizing movements, which have fascinated scientists and artists alike.
With so much beauty and power packed into such a small creature, it’s no surprise that the Mantis Shrimp has captured the attention of marine enthusiasts worldwide.
Related: What Do Snow Crab Taste Like
What Does Mantis Shrimp Taste Like?
If you’re a fan of seafood, chances are you’ve tried a variety of different types of fish, shrimp, and crab. But have you ever had mantis shrimp? This creature is popular in Southeast Asian cuisine, where it’s often grilled or stir-fried.
While it’s not as widely known as other types of seafood, it’s definitely worth trying if you get the chance. So, what does mantis shrimp taste like? Well, some people say it has a slightly sweet, nutty flavor, while others compare it to lobster or crab.
The texture is said to be more firm and dense than other types of shellfish. Overall, if you’re feeling adventurous in the kitchen, it might be time to give mantis shrimp a try!
How To Cook Mantis Shrimp?
Mantis shrimp may seem like a daunting choice for a meal, but with the right preparation, it can be a delicious and unique addition to your seafood repertoire. To start, make sure to clean and prep your mantis shrimp thoroughly before cooking.
To enhance the natural sweetness of the meat, try grilling or roasting it with olive oil, garlic, and lemon. Another popular method is to stir-fry the mantis shrimp with ginger, scallions, and soy sauce for a savory dish with a bit of kick.
Regardless of the technique you choose, be sure not to overcook the shrimp to avoid making the meat tough and rubbery. Experiment with different spices and flavors to find the recipe that works best for you and your taste buds.
Finding Fresh Mantis Shrimp – Where to Buy or Catch Your Own
Mantis shrimp, also known as “thumb splitters,” are not only one of the most fascinating sea creatures, but also one of the most delicious. If you’re a seafood lover looking to add a little excitement to your taste buds, trying fresh mantis shrimp is definitely worth it.
But where can you find them? You have a few options. If you’re lucky enough to live in coastal areas such as Florida, California, or Hawaii, you may be able to find them fresh at local seafood markets.
However, if you’re not close to the coast or don’t want to rely on others, you can try catching them yourself. Mantis shrimp can be found in warm saltwater, hiding in rocky areas and holes.
Just make sure you have the proper gear before you head out on your adventure. Happy hunting and bon appétit!
What Do Mantis Shrimp Taste Like
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh Mantis Shrimp
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Start by cleaning and deveining the Mantis Shrimp. Remove the shell and tail, leaving the meat intact.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Sprinkle the paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the garlic, stirring to combine.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the Mantis Shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over low heat, allowing it to brown slightly for extra flavor.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, coating them with the butter sauce.
- Cook for an additional minute, tossing the shrimp to ensure they are evenly coated.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Serve the Mantis Shrimp immediately with lemon wedges on the side.