Seafood Technique: Pan-Roasting Shrimp in Garlic Butter
Pan-roasting shrimp in garlic butter is a culinary technique that combines the speed of pan-searing with the gentle heat of roasting to create succulent, perfectly cooked shrimp. This method is ideal for home cooks who want restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The key is to develop a rich, nutty garlic butter that infuses the shrimp with flavor while ensuring they remain tender and juicy. We start by selecting the right shrimp – fresh, with a firm texture and a mild ocean scent. The shrimp are patted dry to ensure a good sear, and the pan is preheated to lock in their natural sweetness. Garlic is sautéed just to the edge of golden to release its aroma without becoming bitter. Butter, the star of the show, is added to create a sizzling bath that cooks the shrimp evenly. The shrimp are arranged in a single layer, allowing them to cook undisturbed until they develop a gorgeous sear. The residual heat continues to cook them gently, avoiding the common pitfall of overcooking. This technique is versatile and can be adapted to various dishes, from simple pasta to elegant risotto. With attention to timing and temperature, you can achieve shrimp that are both beautifully presented and bursting with flavor.
Notes
The science behind pan-roasting shrimp lies in the careful balance of high and medium heat. High heat sears the shrimp quickly, creating a flavorful crust, while medium heat gently cooks them through without overcooking. Common mistakes include overcrowding the pan, which lowers the temperature and steams the shrimp, or flipping them too soon, preventing a proper sear. Ensure your shrimp are fully dry before cooking to avoid spattering and to achieve a good crust. Safety-wise, always check that shrimp are opaque throughout to ensure they are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 145°F. For storage, allow shrimp to cool before refrigerating in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For make-ahead, cook shrimp just until they turn pink and finish cooking in residual heat or a warm skillet before serving.
Steps
- 1 Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
- 2 Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- 3 Add 2 tablespoons olive oil to the skillet.
- 4 Sauté 4 cloves minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- 5 Reduce heat to medium and add 6 tablespoons unsalted butter.
- 6 Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the skillet.
- 7 Season shrimp with salt and pepper.
- 8 Cook shrimp undisturbed for 2 minutes.
- 9 Flip shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes until pink and opaque.
- 10 Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- 11 Increase heat to medium-high and let the garlic butter reduce slightly.
- 12 Optional: Add lemon juice and chopped parsley to the skillet.
- 13 Toss shrimp in the garlic butter to coat.
- 14 Serve immediately.
Ingredients to explore
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a type of vinegar made through the fermentation of apple cider, resulting in a tangy, slightly sweet liquid with a pale to medium amber color.
Aioli
A luscious, velvety emulsion of garlic and olive oil, aioli is a rich and aromatic sauce that dances on the palate with its creamy texture and bold, pungent flavor.
Recipes to try
Sweet and Sour Pork with Pineapple and Peppers
Tangy, sweet, and a touch sour, this pork dish is a carnival of flavors with juicy pineapple chunks and crisp bell peppers.
Lemon Dill Salmon Cakes with Caper Mayo
Golden, crispy salmon cakes bursting with fresh dill and zesty lemon, served with a tangy caper mayo that'll have you hooked.