Preparing a Quick and Delicious Wild American Shrimp Meal

For many Americans, some of their fondest memories revolve around outdoor gatherings with family and friends, enjoying meals that feature the rich flavors and aromas of fresh, local produce and seasonal ingredients. When shopping for the freshest components, consider seeking out local ingredients that are packed with flavor, such as Certified Wild American Shrimp, caught from the open waters along the Gulf and South Atlantic.

The Appeal of Wild-Caught Shrimp

"Wild-caught shrimp are fresh, succulent, and tender, unlike 85% of the shrimp that are imported and pond-raised," says Chef Dean James Max, executive chef of 3030 Ocean at Marriott's Harbor Beach Resort and Spa in Fort Lauderdale. Chef Max is renowned for his fresh, simple, and wholesome style, which stems from a philosophy of natural and traditional preparation using impeccable ingredients.

A typical four-ounce portion of Wild American Shrimp has just 112 calories when served steamed, boiled, grilled, or baked, making it a refreshing way to lighten up your menu. Source: USDA

Recipe: Sesame Wild American Shrimp with Avocado Purée and Citrus Sauce

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 18 jumbo Wild American Shrimp (under 10 size)
• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup soda water
• Pinch of sesame seeds
• Pinch of baking soda
• 6 cups peanut oil
• Fine sea salt

For the Avocado Purée:

• 3 avocados
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 limes
• 1 shallot, minced
• Salt to taste

For the Florida Citrus Sauce:

• 1 grapefruit
• 2 oranges
• 1 lemon
• 1 lime
• 1 tangerine
• 2 kumquats
• 1 stalk lemongrass, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped ginger
• 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
• 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
• 2 shallots, minced
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons fresh-pressed peanut oil
• 3/4 cup grape seed oil
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Instructions

Preparing the Shrimp:

1. Whisk together the flour, sesame seeds, baking soda, soda water, and salt. Chill the batter in the refrigerator until needed.
2. Clean the shells from the shrimp and devein them.
3. Heat the peanut oil in a small deep fryer to 350°F.
4. Dip the shrimp in the batter while holding the tail fins. Carefully dip the shrimp three-quarters of the way into the oil and hold it there for 4 seconds before letting it go. Repeat for all shrimp, frying in batches of 3-4 at a time.
5. Transfer the shrimp to a warm plate covered with a paper towel. Season with fine sea salt immediately after frying.

Preparing the Avocado Purée:

1. Purée the flesh of the avocados with sesame oil, lime juice, minced shallot, and salt.
2. Spoon equal amounts of the avocado purée onto each of the six plates.
3. Place three shrimp on each plate of avocado purée.

Preparing the Florida Citrus Sauce:

1. Zest, segment, and juice the grapefruit, oranges, lemon, lime, and tangerine. Thinly slice the kumquats and remove their seeds. Place the segments and kumquats in a bowl.
2. In a small pot, combine the citrus juice, zest, ginger, lemongrass, coriander, fennel, and shallots. Reduce over medium heat until the juice is almost a paste.
3. Press the mixture through a fine mesh strainer and add it to the bowl with the segments. Whisk in the vinegar and oils. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper.
4. Drizzle two tablespoons of the citrus sauce over each plate of shrimp and avocado purée.

Supporting Local Fisheries

"When you ask for Certified Wild American Shrimp at a restaurant or seafood counter, you're supporting an important American industry that spans generations," adds Chef Max. This not only ensures you get the freshest and most flavorful shrimp but also helps sustain local economies and traditions.

Interesting Stats

• The U.S. imports about 85% of its shrimp, with the majority being farm-raised in countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and India. Source: NOAA
• Wild-caught shrimp from the Gulf of Mexico and South Atlantic are known for their superior taste and texture compared to farm-raised shrimp. Source: Gulf Seafood

By choosing Wild American Shrimp, you are not only treating yourself to a delicious meal but also contributing to a sustainable and vital industry. Enjoy this delightful recipe and savor the rich flavors of fresh, local ingredients.