Shrimp is a food source rich in calcium and protein and is very popular for preparing dishes for family meals. However, to choose a fresh and delicious batch of shrimp and ensure quality, housewives need to pay attention to some basic things:
Shape, transparency of shrimp shell
Fresh and delicious shrimp often have slightly curved bodies, glossy outer shells and transparency. When observed under light, housewives can clearly see the meat sticking close to the shell.
Conversely, shrimp with round bodies and plump shells may be a sign that they have been pumped with water to gain weight. Therefore, avoid buying shrimp with shells that have turned cloudy or have dark patches that indicate that the ingredients have been left for a long time.
Joints on the body and head of the shrimp
Another point to observe is the joints on the shell, if it is fresh shrimp, there will be narrow and tight body joints. If the distance between these joints widens, it means that the shrimp has been left for a long time or is not well preserved.
In addition, the head and legs of the shrimp cling tightly to the body. If you see the shrimp head slightly separated from the body or the shrimp handle turns black, it is a sign that the quality of the raw materials is no longer fresh and delicious.
Elasticity and flavor
When gently pressing on the shrimp body, the fresh shrimp meat will have good elasticity, firmness and not be flattened. If the shrimp body is soft or sticky, it will be spoiled.
In terms of taste, fresh shrimp always has a characteristic taste of salty water, not fishy. Shrimp soaked in preservatives often have a beautiful appearance, but when touched, they become hard and lose the natural taste of seafood.