Are you ready to spice up your seafood game? Look no further! We’ve got a mouth-watering collection of 18 spicy shrimp with heads recipes that will transport your taste buds around the world. From the bold flavors of Korean Gochujang Glazed Shrimp to the tangy zip of Mexican Chipotle Lime Grilled Shrimp, these dishes are sure to satisfy even the most discerning seafood lovers.
In this article, we’ll be diving into a diverse range of recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of shrimp. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy and bold or light and zesty, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to please.
Garlic Butter Head-On Shrimp Skillet
A flavorful and succulent shrimp skillet recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With the rich aroma of garlic and butter, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 12 large head-on shrimp
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet.
6. Stir in paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the shrimp with the garlic butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Thai Coconut Shrimp with Heads
This recipe is a flavorful and spicy twist on traditional shrimp dishes, featuring succulent heads-on shrimp coated in a bold mixture of coconut flakes, chilies, and aromatic spices. Perfect for seafood lovers and those who enjoy a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp with heads and shells intact
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1-2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, seeded and chopped (depending on desired level of heat)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together coconut flakes, curry paste, fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, cumin, smoked paprika, and chilies.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Remove the shrimp from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Fry the shrimp in batches until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cajun Grilled Head-On Shrimp
Get ready to spice up your grilling game with this bold and flavorful recipe for Cajun Grilled Head-On Shrimp. The spicy kick from the Cajun seasoning pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the shrimp, making it a perfect addition to any outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 head-on shrimp
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush the shrimp with olive oil and sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the shrimp.
4. Place the shrimp on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Chinese Salt and Pepper Whole Shrimp
This classic Chinese recipe is a staple at many dim sum restaurants. The combination of crispy-fried shrimp, savory salt, and aromatic pepper creates an irresistible flavor profile that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whole shrimp (peeled and deveined)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1 teaspoon white pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large bowl, mix together salt, white pepper, and cornstarch.
3. Add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Add the shrimp and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and start to curl.
7. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spanish Gambas al Ajillo with Heads
Gambas al ajillo is a classic Spanish dish that’s perfect for seafood lovers. This recipe adds an extra layer of flavor and drama by using the shrimp heads, which are packed with rich seafood goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, heads removed (save for this recipe)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp heads under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp heads to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re lightly browned.
4. Add the smoked paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve the Gambas al Ajillo hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Herb Roasted Head-On Shrimp
Brighten up your seafood dish with this zesty recipe that combines the sweetness of lemons and herbs with the simplicity of roasting. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound head-on shrimp
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, lemon juice, and honey.
4. Place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the mixture evenly over the shrimp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Korean Gochujang Glazed Shrimp with Heads
Elevate your shrimp game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the spicy kick of gochujang with the tender sweetness of shrimp. This dish is perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp with heads, shells removed (except for the heads)
– 2 tablespoons gochujang paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and vegetable oil.
3. Add the shrimp heads and toss to coat evenly.
4. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and brush with toasted sesame oil.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Vietnamese Caramelized Head-On Shrimp
Savor the rich flavors of Vietnam with this simple yet impressive dish that combines succulent head-on shrimp with a sweet and savory caramel sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound head-on shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup fish sauce (nuoc nam)
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
2. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, fish sauce, water, and lime juice. Pour the caramel mixture over the shrimp.
4. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Indian Masala Whole Shrimp Curry
Experience the bold flavors of India with this simple and aromatic whole shrimp curry recipe. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, as it’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whole shrimp (head on, shells removed)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup water or shrimp broth
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they start to caramelize (5-7 minutes).
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and stir to coat with spice mixture.
5. Pour in diced tomatoes and water or broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the shrimp are cooked through.
7. Season with salt and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Japanese Ebi Fry with Heads-On
Experience the authentic taste of Japan with this simple recipe that combines succulent shrimp with crispy fritters. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these flavorful bites are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound heads-on large shrimp
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup potato starch
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, potato starch, salt, white pepper, and baking powder.
2. Add the beaten egg to the dry ingredients and mix until a batter forms.
3. Peel the shrimp, leaving the heads and tails intact. Dip each shrimp into the batter, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the battered shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Remove the fried shrimp from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Mediterranean Garlic Lemon Head-On Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the boldness of garlic, the brightness of lemon, and the sweetness of Mediterranean herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 head-on shrimp
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the head-on shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the marinated shrimp in a single layer.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Mexican Chipotle Lime Grilled Shrimp with Heads
Add a burst of flavor to your grilled shrimp with the bold combination of chipotle peppers, lime juice, and Mexican spices. Perfect for a quick and impressive dinner or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp with heads, peeled and deveined
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chipotle peppers, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add shrimp to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove shrimp from marinade and grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with a squeeze of lime juice and garnished with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Filipino Sinigang na Hipon (Sour Shrimp Soup)
Sinigang na Hipon is a popular Filipino soup that combines the sweetness of tomatoes and tamarind broth with the savory flavor of shrimp. This recipe is a classic take on this beloved dish, using fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, cleaned and peeled
– 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup tamarind broth or tamarind paste
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– Fresh vegetables like spinach, bok choy, or pechay for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine tamarind broth, chopped tomatoes, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and fish sauce (if using), and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh calamansi (Filipino lime) and garnished with your choice of vegetables.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Malaysian Sambal Head-On Shrimp Stir-Fry
In this recipe, we combine the bold flavors of Malaysian sambal with succulent head-on shrimp for a spicy and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound head-on shrimp
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2-3 dried red chilies, seeded and chopped (or substitute with sambal chili paste)
– 1/4 cup Malaysian sambal sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and chilies; stir-fry until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through (about 2-3 minutes per side).
4. Stir in sambal sauce, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); simmer for 1 minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Greek Ouzo-Marinated Whole Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the boldness of ouzo with the sweetness of succulent shrimp. Perfect for a quick and impressive appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whole shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup ouzo
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together ouzo, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
5. Remove shrimp from marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
6. Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peruvian Aji Amarillo Head-On Shrimp Ceviche
Experience the bold flavors of Peru with this vibrant and refreshing shrimp ceviche, infused with the spicy kick of aji amarillo peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound head-on shrimp
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2-3 aji amarillo peppers, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt to taste
– 1 avocado, diced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large bowl, combine lime juice, onion, cilantro, and aji amarillo peppers.
3. Add the shrimp to the marinade and mix well.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with diced avocado, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! This ceviche is best served immediately after preparation, when the shrimp are still firm and the flavors are bright and zesty.
Caribbean Jerk Spiced Whole Shrimp
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouth-watering Caribbean Jerk Spiced Whole Shrimp recipe. This aromatic and spicy dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound whole shrimp (16-20 count)
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
4. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the jerk mixture evenly over both sides of the shrimp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
7. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
French Provencal Head-On Shrimp with Herbs
This classic Provençal dish is a flavorful celebration of the Mediterranean’s bounty, featuring succulent head-on shrimp infused with the bright notes of fresh herbs and aromatics. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 large head-on shrimp
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, parsley)
– 1 lemon, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, onion, garlic, and herbs.
3. Add the shrimp and toss to coat, making sure they’re evenly distributed among the aromatics.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your seafood game with these 18 mouth-watering recipes that feature head-on shrimp as the star ingredient! From Asian-inspired dishes like Spicy Thai Coconut Shrimp and Korean Gochujang Glazed Shrimp, to Latin American flavors like Mexican Chipotle Lime Grilled Shrimp and Caribbean Jerk Spiced Whole Shrimp, there’s something for every seafood lover. And don’t forget about international twists like Japanese Ebi Fry and Indian Masala Whole Shrimp Curry. Whether you’re in the mood for bold spices or bright citrus flavors, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
