Listen up seafood lovers! I’ve got something interesting to share with y’all today. If you’ve been tossing those shrimp heads in the trash you’re missing out on what many consider the tastiest part of the shrimp. Let me show you why fried shrimp heads are worth trying and how to enjoy them properly.
Why Should You Give Shrimp Heads a Try?
Here’s the thing – I know shrimp heads might look a bit intimidating at first. But trust me they’re packed with amazing flavors and benefits
- Super flavorful and umami-rich
- Excellent source of protein (about 3g per head)
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Contains chitin (good for gut health)
- Loaded with antioxidants
- Full of vitamins and minerals like zinc, iron, and B12
The Awesome Texture Experience
When you fry shrimp heads, you get this incredible contrast of textures:
- Crispy, crunchy exterior from the shell
- Creamy, custard-like interior
- Rich, juicy innards
- Briny, savory flavors throughout
How to Prepare and Fry Shrimp Heads
Here’s my tried-and-tested method for making crispy fried shrimp heads
-
Prep the heads:
- Twist heads off bodies if still attached
- Remove any visible veins
- Rinse well and pat super dry
- Season with salt and pepper
-
Frying method:
- Heat oil to 350-375°F
- Coat heads lightly in cornstarch
- Deep fry for 2-3 minutes until golden
- Drain on paper towels
- Season again while hot
Pro Tips for Eating Fried Shrimp Heads
For first-timers, here’s how to dive in:
- Start with the meaty end first
- Crunch through gradually to get used to texture
- Don’t be shy – use your fingers!
- Keep napkins handy (it can get messy!)
- Try dipping in sauces like:
- Sriracha mayo
- Sweet chili sauce
- Lemon aioli
Fun Ways to Serve Fried Shrimp Heads
We love getting creative with these crispy treats:
- Sprinkle over salads
- Add to fried rice
- Serve as bar snacks
- Top seafood soups
- Make shrimp head “lollipops”
- Add to nachos (trust me on this one!)
Safety Notes
While fried shrimp heads are generally safe to eat, keep these things in mind:
- Not for folks with shellfish allergies
- Chew thoroughly to avoid choking
- High in cholesterol – enjoy in moderation
- Best eaten fresh and hot
Making Stock from Leftover Heads
Don’t wanna eat the heads whole? No problem! Make a killer shrimp stock:
- Save heads in freezer bag
- Cover with water in pot
- Boil then simmer 15 mins
- Strain and use in:
- Risotto
- Seafood stews
- Rice dishes
- Any recipe needing stock
My Final Thoughts
Y’all, I was skeptical about eating shrimp heads at first too. But after trying them fried up crispy, I’m totally converted! The amazing mix of textures and flavors is something special. Plus, it feels good not wasting any part of the shrimp.
What about you? Have you tried fried shrimp heads before? Drop a comment below with your experience or questions! I’d love to hear your thoughts on this underrated seafood treat.
Would you like me to explain or break down any part of this article further?
There’s flavor in those shells
The biggest issue most people run into when trying to branch out into head-to-tail shrimp cuisine is one of texture. Even when deep fried—which we’ll get to in a moment—the feeling of chitin and tomalley (hepatopancreas) can take a little getting used to.
If you want to ease yourself into the world of no-waste, whole-shrimp enjoyment, you can start by using the shells, tails, and heads to make an umami-packed shrimpy stock. Just grab any leftover shells you have (I keep a bag in the freezer), cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and let cook for 15 minutes, tasting every once in a while, until your stock is packed with shrimp flavor.
If your tails came from a batch of seasoned shrimp—say a Cajun boil or scampi—you can expect a little bit of that flavor to come through, but the predominate notes will be deeply savory and a little funky. You know, shrimpy. Use your shrimp stock to make risotto (or plain rice), a seafood stew, or anything else you’d usually use a stock for.
Fry the whole thing
The easiest way to enjoy the heads and tails of a shrimp is to deep fry the entire thing, and then eat the entire thing. According to Chichi Wang of Serious Eats, fried shrimp heads are a symphony of contrasts:
The crispy and crunchy exterior gives way to the rich, juicy innards, creating an enticing bite. Wang’s recipe for Chinese-Style Deep-Fried Salty Shrimp may seem a little intimidating, but shrimp are small and fry fast, and the cornstarch creates a wonderful coating for your seasonings of choice to cling to. Once their fried and seasoned, eat them whole, no peeling needed.
Would you eat fried shrimp heads ? #youtubeshorts #shorts
FAQ
What part of shrimp do you not eat?
Is it healthy to eat the head of a shrimp?
Shrimp heads are a good source of antioxidants, including astaxanthin and selenium. Shrimp heads are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including zinc, iron, and vitamin B12. While cholesterol is often demonized, it is actually an essential substance our bodies need to function properly.
Is it okay to eat fried shrimp shells?
So, yes, shrimp shells are edible and, based on recent scientific research, may also provide health benefits, like lowering cholesterol and improving cartilage and joint health.
Why do shrimp heads taste good?
One of the primary reasons shrimp heads are so flavorful is their high concentration of glutamates, naturally occurring amino acids that are the building …Jun 23, 2025
Can you eat shrimp head?
Shrimp head often looks like a thing to whack with a broom or something even harder. But can you eat shrimp heads? Yes, you can eat shrimp head! In fact, several people believe it’s the nicest part of the shrimp. Even though the way it’s generally done is by sucking the fluid out of the head other than consuming the whole thing, shell and all.
Should you eat whole shrimp?
Ease yourself into the world of no-waste, whole-shrimp enjoyment. When it comes to eating animals, most white Americans seem to favor muscle and flesh over innards, heads, tails, tendons, and anything that isn’t, well, muscle and flesh. That’s too bad, because those are some of the best bits with the most flavor, particularly in the case of shrimp.
Are shrimp heads deep fried?
In some cultures, shrimp heads are deep-fried or sautéed and served as a snack or appetizer. The heads are typically removed from the body and cleaned before cooking, and the resulting dish is often described as rich, savory, and umami.
Are fried shrimp heads a symphony of contrasts?
The easiest way to enjoy the heads and tails of a shrimp is to deep fry the entire thing, and then eat the entire thing. According to Chichi Wang of Serious Eats, fried shrimp heads are a symphony of contrasts: What do you think so far? Be the first to post a comment.
Are shrimp heads edible?
Yes, shrimp heads are edible and can be consumed. However, some people may prefer to remove the shells before eating, while others enjoy the crispy texture and flavorful taste of the heads. Are shrimp heads healthy to eat? Shrimp heads are rich in protein and nutrients such as calcium, iodine, and chitin.
Are shrimp heads good for cooking?
When cooking shrimps, most people discard the shrimp heads and shells without giving them a second thought. However, shrimp heads are actually packed with flavor and can be used to make delicious dishes and sauces. Here are a few creative ways to make the most out of shrimp heads. Do you like this article?