Tiếng ViệtMantis shrimp is a popular seafood delicacy, especially in Phu Quoc. KK2trip will guide you on how to enjoy this local favourite for a truly authentic culinary experience.
What is Mantis Shrimp?
Mantis shrimp, also known as stomatopods, are marine crustaceans that resemble a cross between a shrimp and a praying mantis. Mantis shrimp in Phu Quoc They inhabit tropical and subtropical waters globally and can grow up to 30cm long, with their colour varying depending on their habitat. Their diet consists of fish, smaller crustaceans, and raw meat, which they catch using their powerful claws. Mantis shrimp are a culinary staple in countries like Japan, China, and Vietnam. In Vietnam, Phu Quoc is renowned for its exceptionally large, meaty, and sweet mantis shrimp, making it a must-try dish for visitors. Numerous delicious dishes feature mantis shrimp, each offering unique flavours, including steamed mantis shrimp with beer, salt-roasted mantis shrimp, tamarind mantis shrimp, butter garlic mantis shrimp, mantis shrimp noodle soup, and mantis shrimp spring rolls.
Nutritional Benefits of Mantis Shrimp
Mantis shrimp meat is rich in essential vitamins, particularly vitamin B12, which aids in protein synthesis and energy metabolism, promoting overall health. Nutritional benefits of Mantis Shrimp Like other seafood, it’s a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for vision and optic nerve health, especially in children. The high protein, iron, and healthy fat content in mantis shrimp promote healthy blood circulation, contributing to a strong cardiovascular system. Rich in calcium, mantis shrimp benefits bone and joint health, preventing osteoporosis and arthritis in older adults. When prepared and consumed correctly, mantis shrimp provides numerous health benefits.
3 Easy Ways to Peel and Enjoy Mantis Shrimp
Peeling Mantis Shrimp with Scissors
Scissors are the most efficient tool for peeling mantis shrimp. Here are two methods:
- Cutting along the back: Pierce the last shell segment near the tail with scissors and cut lengthwise towards the head. Stop at the head and cut it off. Use your hands to separate the shell halves. Finally, remove the meat from the belly shell.
- Cutting along the sides: Turn the mantis shrimp on its back. Cut along both sides of the shell with scissors. Remove the head and tail. Separate each shell segment starting from the tail and working towards the head. Gently detach the meat from the belly shell.
Peeling Mantis Shrimp with Scissors
Peeling Mantis Shrimp with Chopsticks
Follow these steps to peel mantis shrimp with chopsticks:
- Step 1: Bend the tail downwards to expose the segments. Press the tail where it joins the body and insert chopsticks into the middle of the back, stopping at the head.
- Step 2: Hold the head with one hand and push the chopsticks upwards with the other to separate the hard shell from the meat.
- Step 3: Hold the tail and twist it to remove it.
- Step 4: Gently peel the underside shell to extract the meat.
Peeling Mantis Shrimp by Hand
To peel mantis shrimp by hand:
- Step 1: Remove the two lower appendages from the tail.
- Step 2: Press your thumbnail into the belly to insert your thumb. Hold the underside shell and meat with one hand and push the upper shell upwards with the other to remove it.
- Step 3: Twist off the head and tail.
- Step 4: Insert your thumb into the underside shell, hold the meat with one hand, and gently peel off the shell with the other.
These three methods ensure you can easily peel mantis shrimp while retaining as much meat as possible.
Tips for Cooking with Mantis Shrimp
A delicious dish depends not only on the ingredients but also on the preparation and combination of flavours. Do you know how to choose and store mantis shrimp properly?
Choosing Fresh Mantis Shrimp
Choosing fresh mantis shrimp is simple. Look for live ones that feel firm to the touch. Choosing Fresh Mantis Shrimp Also, check for a red streak extending from the belly to the tail, indicating roe, which is considered a delicacy.
Storing Mantis Shrimp
Fresh mantis shrimp are best consumed within three days. They tend to shrink and lose their flavour over time. During transport and storage, keep them wrapped and submerged in saltwater similar in salinity to seawater to preserve their flavour. Storing Mantis Shrimp Peeled mantis shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain freshness. Thaw for approximately 30 minutes before cooking. This article has provided information about mantis shrimp and how to eat them. Phu Quoc offers many other delicious dishes waiting to be explored. Book a car with KK2TRIP today to enhance your Phu Quoc experience. KK2TRIP specialises in affordable car rental services in Phu Quoc. We offer a wide range of modern vehicles with well-maintained interiors and exteriors. All our cars undergo regular inspection and maintenance to ensure top quality for our customers. Our car pick-up and drop-off procedures are simple and efficient, saving you valuable time. Contact us for advice and support: KK2TRIP COMPANY LIMITED – Address: 118 Tran Hung Dao, Phu Quoc – Hotline: 0816 667 118 – Email: nguyennam1994pq@gmail.com – Website: kk2trip.com