Fresh Mantis Shrimp

About this item

A spotted, hard-shelled shrimp with some of the sweetest, most flavourful meat in the sea. The flesh is firm and springy, with a richness closer to lobster than ordinary prawns. Steam or boil them whole, then split the shell to reach the tender tail meat inside, best enjoyed with a sharp vinegar or soy dip. The shells turn a deep pink as they cook, which makes the timing easy to read, and the meat pulls away in one piece when it is done. Handle them gently before cooking, since the legs and tail fan are delicate, and avoid overcooking: a couple of minutes in rolling water is usually enough. A two-kilo pack covers several sittings, and they are just as good served cold. They are worth the small effort of peeling at the table. Keep them cold right up to the moment they go into the pot.

Key Features

• Spotted, hard shell over sweet tail meat
• Firm, springy texture like lobster
• Rich, naturally sweet flavour
• Steam or boil whole, then split the shell
• A prized shellfish in coastal cooking
• Excellent dipped in vinegar or soy

Product Information

• Net weight: 2 kg per pack
• Keep frozen at -18°C or below
• Thaw in the fridge before cooking
• Steam or boil until the shell turns pink
• Split the shell to reach the meat
• Cook thoroughly before eating