Gulf Coast Shrimp, Fresh 16/20 Shell On
Brown, white, and pink shrimp are a triad of warmwater species collectively known as “Gulf shrimp.” These shrimp are commercially important to both the United States and Mexico and are found along the southeastern U.S. coast, as far north as Maryland, and along the entire western Gulf, particularly on Mexico’s Campeche Banks. All Gulf shrimp are harvested from the wild using trawl nets.
Pink shrimp, the largest Gulf species, can reach up to 11 inches and are usually sold with their heads on, giving the impression of a lot of shrimp since two-thirds of the body length is the head. Gulf whites are concentrated south of the Carolinas, with the bulk of the harvest coming from the Gulf of Mexico, growing up to 8 inches. Variations in shell color can cause white shrimp to be confused with brown shrimp from the same area. Brown shrimp are primarily found off the Texas-Louisiana coast, with males reaching 7 inches and females growing to 9 inches.
Product Profile
Gulf shrimp are generally flavorful and sweet, with slight variations in taste according to the species. Pinks are tender and sweet, browns are firm and sometimes have a hint of iodine, while whites, often considered the standard against which other shrimp species are measured, are sweet and firm. Cooked shells of all species turn pinkish-red, while raw meats range from translucent pink to gray. Cooked meats are pearly white with pink and red shadings.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 106
- Fat Calories: 15.3
- Total Fat: 1.7 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3 g
- Cholesterol: 152 mg
- Sodium: 148 mg
- Protein: 20.3 g
- Omega 3: 0.53 g
Cooking Tips
Gulf shrimp are versatile and can be breaded, stuffed, boiled with spices, or barbecued. They cook quickly in just 60 to 90 seconds at a rapid boil. When the meat turns opaque, it’s done. Be careful not to overcook, as it will toughen the meat.
Cooking Methods
- Boil
- Broil
- Grill
- Saute
- Steam
Peel & Devein Service:
Peel & devein service is available Monday through Thursday. Please allow at least one hour for this service. Requests on Friday and Saturday will not be fulfilled. This service is an additional $2.95/lb and can be purchased here.
Try these recipes below!
Texas Gulf Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Tomatillo Salsa
