Butterflying shrimp is a classic culinary technique that enhances the presentation and allows for even cooking, whether frying, grilling, or baking. 

This simple process opens up the shrimp, creating a larger surface area perfect for absorbing marinades or breading. 

We’ll teach you how to butterfly shrimp, provide tips for cooking them to perfection, and answer questions like how long to fry butterfly shrimp for optimal flavor.

At Texas Gold Shrimp, we pride ourselves on delivering wild-caught shrimp perfect for butterflying and creating unforgettable dishes. Follow along and improve your shrimp preparation skills!

Why Butterfly Shrimp?

• Better Presentation: The shrimp's expanded shape looks stunning in recipes like shrimp cocktail or tempura.
• Improved Cooking: Butterflied shrimp cook evenly, whether fried, grilled, or sautéed.
• More Flavor Absorption: The opened surface soaks marinades, sauces, or breading for maximum flavor.

How to Make Butterfly Shrimp: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Gather Your Tools

You’ll need:

• Fresh shrimp (Super Colossal or Jumbo for best results).

• A sharp paring knife.

• Cutting board.

• Paper towels for patting the shrimp dry.

2. Prepare the Shrimp

• Peel the shrimp, leaving the tail intact for a professional look.

• Remove the vein if it hasn’t already been cleaned.

3. Make the Cut

• Place the shrimp on the cutting board, belly-side down.

• Using your paring knife, make a shallow cut along the back, starting from the tail and moving toward the head. Be careful not to cut all the way through the shrimp.

4. Open the Shrimp

• Gently press the sides of the shrimp outward to spread it open, creating the butterfly shape.

5. Optional: Marinate or Bread

• At this stage, you can season, marinate, or coat the shrimp with breading for frying or grilling.

How Long to Fry Butterfly Shrimp?

Frying butterfly shrimp is quick and easy:

• Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

• Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown.

• Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.

How to Make Butterfly Shrimp: Recipe Idea

Garlic Butter Butterfly Shrimp

Ingredients:

• 8 butterflied Super Colossal Shrimp

• 4 tbsp garlic butter

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• Lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions:

Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Brush butterflied shrimp with garlic butter. Then grill or sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred. Finally, garnish with parsley and lemon wedges.

Tips for Perfect Butterflied Shrimp

Now that you know how to butterfly a shrimp, there are a few tips to help you perfect this technique: 

• Choose Fresh Shrimp: Wild-caught shrimp, like those from Texas Gold Shrimp, have superior flavor and texture.

• Use the Right Size: Super Colossal or Jumbo shrimp are easiest to butterfly and create a stunning presentation.

• Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly; watch them closely to maintain their tenderness.

Why Choose Texas Gold Shrimp?

Texas Gold Shrimp provides wild-caught shrimp perfect for butterflying and creating restaurant-quality dishes at home. 

Delivered fresh to your doorstep, our shrimp are sustainably sourced from the Gulf Coast, ensuring premium quality and taste in every bite.

Order Your Wild-Caught Texas Gold Shrimp

Mastering how to butterfly shrimp is easier than you think, and it opens the door to creating stunning and delicious shrimp dishes. 

Whether you’re frying, grilling, or baking, butterflied shrimp are sure to impress your family and guests.

Ready to start? Order fresh, wild-caught shrimp from Texas Gold Shrimp today and take your culinary creations to the next level!