When buying shrimp, many people are unsure whether to pick straight shrimp or curved shrimp. In reality, the difference between the two is significant, and knowing how to choose can help you avoid purchasing low-quality or even spoiled shrimp.

If you pick shrimp without knowing these distinctions, you risk buying shrimp that has been stored too long. These shrimp may not only have a mushy texture but also a strong, unpleasant fishy smell. No matter how you cook them, the flavor and quality will be disappointing.

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Why Curved Shrimp Are Usually Better

When you go to a supermarket or local market, it’s recommended to choose curved shrimp. Here’s why:

• When shrimp die, their muscles become loose. Even if you try to bend straight shrimp, they will remain rigid and do not spring back, which is a sign of older or low-quality shrimp.

• Live shrimp naturally curl into a curved shape when exposed to low temperatures or mild heat. Therefore, fresh shrimp usually retain their natural curve even after handling or cooling.

So, the curvature of shrimp is an important indicator of freshness, but it’s not the only factor to consider.

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Other Signs to Avoid When Buying Shrimp

When selecting shrimp, pay attention to these key points to avoid buying shrimp that has been stored too long or has started to spoil:

1. Shrimp Missing Heads or Tails

   • If the shrimp are missing their heads or tails, it’s a clear sign they have been handled or stored for a long time.

   • The exposed parts often start to rot or soften, which affects the texture and flavor after cooking.

2. Red or Discolored Shells

   • Some shrimp shells turn red due to high temperatures during transport. Shrimp with red or unevenly colored shells have likely been processed or stored improperly, which can compromise taste.

   • Always choose shrimp with clean, uniformly colored shells.

3. Mushy or Soft Flesh

   • Fresh shrimp should have firm, elastic flesh. If the shrimp feels soft or mushy, it may already be starting to spoil.

   • The heads and tails of spoiled shrimp can separate easily, and the overall smell will be unpleasant. Avoid this type to ensure quality and taste.

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Tips for Cooking Shrimp to Preserve Freshness

• Boiling: Use boiling water with added Szechuan peppercorns, ginger, or even a bit of beer. These ingredients help neutralize the shrimpy smell.

• Timing: Eat shrimp immediately after cooking to preserve its tender texture and fresh flavor. Leaving cooked shrimp for too long will cause it to toughen and lose taste.

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Conclusion

When buying shrimp, always prioritize curved shrimp, as they are more likely to be fresh and of high quality. Pay attention to the color, texture, and presence of heads and tails. By selecting shrimp carefully and cooking them properly, you can enjoy sweet, tender, and delicious shrimp every time.

Next time you shop, remember: straight shrimp might look appealing, but curved shrimp are usually the tastiest and freshest choice!