How to Peel and Devein Shrimp

My recommendation is to always buy raw shrimp with the peel on. Peeled shrimp are susceptible to freezer burn and are generally less flavorful. The vein of the shrimp is its intestinal tract and should be removed, as it sometimes contains grit and can be unpleasant in taste.

1. For peeled shrimp, simply use a sharp knife to make a shallow cut down the center of the back from the head to the tail and pull out the vein, then rinse the shrimp.
2. For unpeeled shrimp, use kitchens shears or sharp scissors to cut the back of the shell down the middle, then gently peel it off. Depending on the recipe you can leave the tail intact or remove it. Reserve the peels to make stock. 3. Use a sharp knife to make a shallow cut down the center of the back from the head to the tail and pull out the vein, then rinse the shrimp.