Hey there! I’m a seafood enthusiast who’s always on the hunt for unique ocean delicacies. Today, I’m super excited to share everything I know about eating mantis shrimp – those incredible crustaceans that pack a punch (literally!) and taste amazing too.
Quick Answer
Yes, mantis shrimp are totally edible! While not super common in Western restaurants, these powerful little creatures are considered delicacies in many Asian countries. They’ve got a sweet, delicate flavor that’s kinda like a mix between lobster and regular shrimp
What Are Mantis Shrimp?
Before we dive into the culinary stuff, let’s get to know these fascinating creatures:
- They’re marine crustaceans found in tropical and subtropical waters
- Got their name ’cause they look like praying mantises
- Have incredibly powerful claws that can strike as fast as a bullet
- Come in over 450 different species
- Known for their amazing vision and striking colors
The Taste Profile
Here’s what you can expect when you eat mantis shrimp
- Sweet and nutty flavor
- Texture similar to lobster meat
- White, slightly flaky flesh when cooked
- Tender and juicy when prepared right
- Tail meat is considered the sweetest part
How to Cook Mantis Shrimp
I’ve tried several cooking methods, and here are my fave ways to prepare these bad boys:
1. Boiling/Steaming (Easiest Method)
- Bring water to boil
- Cook for 2-3 minutes
- Done when meat turns opaque
2. Grilling
- Brush with oil
- Season as desired
- Grill 2-3 minutes per side
3. Stir-Frying
- Heat wok until super hot
- Add your favorite veggies
- Quick-fry for 2-3 minutes
4. Raw Preparation
- Popular in Japanese cuisine
- Must be super fresh
- Best left to professional chefs
Safety Tips
Listen up! Here are some important things to remember:
- Handle with care – those claws ain’t just for show!
- Always buy from reliable sources
- Cook thoroughly to 145°F
- Eat immediately when prepared
- Store properly if not eating right away
Nutritional Benefits
These little guys are packed with good stuff
- High in protein (about 30g per 100g)
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Good source of:
- Vitamin B12
- Iron
- Calcium
Where to Find Them
You might find mantis shrimp at:
- Asian seafood markets
- Specialty fish markets
- Some high-end seafood restaurants
- Coastal areas in Southeast Asia
My Favorite Simple Recipe
Here’s my go-to way to cook mantis shrimp:
Garlic Butter Mantis Shrimp
- Clean and butterfly the shrimp
- Melt butter with minced garlic
- Add a splash of white wine
- Sauté shrimp for 2-3 minutes
- Finish with fresh herbs and lemon
Environmental and Ethical Considerations
We gotta think about sustainability too:
- Choose sustainably sourced shrimp
- Be aware of local fishing regulations
- Consider the environmental impact
- Support responsible fishing practices
Common Questions I Get Asked
Q: Can I eat them raw?
A: While possible in sashimi, it’s safer to cook them.
Q: How do I clean them?
A: Remove the head, split the shell, and devein like regular shrimp.
Q: How long do they last in the fridge?
A: Fresh ones last 1-2 days max when properly stored.
Wrapping It Up
So there ya have it! Mantis shrimp are not just powerful little creatures – they’re also delicious when prepared right. While they might look a bit intimidating at first, don’t let that stop you from trying this unique seafood. Trust me, once you get past their tough exterior, you’ll discover a sweet, tender meat that’s worth the effort!
Remember, if you’re trying mantis shrimp for the first time, maybe start with a cooked version from a reliable restaurant before attempting to prepare them yourself. And always, always handle with care – those claws aren’t just for show!
Would you like me to explain any part in more detail? Just drop me a comment below!
In what countries can you buy them?
These fascinating and colorful marine crustaceans find their way onto dinner plates in various countries.
In the Mediterranean, the Squilla mantis species is a common seafood, especially along the Adriatic coasts and the Gulf of Cádiz.
In Japan, the Japanese mantis shrimp (Oratosquilla oratoria) is known as shako and is enjoyed as sushi.
Mantis shrimp are also eaten in Vietnamese, Cantonese, Filipino, Hawaiian and Mediterranean cuisines.
We ate mantis shrimp in Hong Kong, and in Venice before!
Are mantis shrimp good to eat?
Mantis shrimp are indeed edible, although they are not commonly consumed in many countries. Their taste has been described as a delightful blend of seafood and vegetable flavors. When cooked, mantis shrimp have tender meat with a slightly sweet taste, reminiscent of langoustines or lobster. The overall effect is like enjoying a refreshing, light meal, perfect for a summer day.
These intriguing crustaceans can be prepared in various ways, including steaming, frying, stir-frying, and grilling. Their small size means there isn’t a lot of meat to eat.
Whether cooked or raw, mantis shrimp offer a unique flavor profile that seafood enthusiasts can appreciate.
Check our very own recipe below!