What Is Shrimp Head?
The cephalothorax portion of shrimp, prized in many cuisines for its intense briny flavor and sweet seafood essence, often used for stocks, sauces, or deep-fried.
What Does Shrimp Head Taste Like?
Shrimp Head has a briny, sweet, umami, intense seafood taste with pungent, marine, sweet (when fresh) aromas.
- Taste
- Briny, Sweet, Umami, Intense Seafood
- Texture
- Cartilaginous (raw), Crispy (fried), Soft (cooked in stock)
- Aroma
- Pungent, Marine, Sweet (when fresh)
- Acidity
- Low
Technical Metrics
Nutrition Facts
Per 1 head (approx 5g)Chef’s Secret
Sauté shrimp heads in a little oil until bright orange, then deglaze with wine or water for a superior stock base.
Shrimp Head Substitutes & Ratios
The best substitute for Shrimp Head is Shrimp Shells, used at a 1:1 (by weight) ratio. Provides excellent seafood flavor for stocks, but lacks the deeper richness and fat of the heads.
| Substitute | Ratio | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp Shells Best | 1:1 (by weight) | Provides excellent seafood flavor for stocks, but lacks the deeper richness and fat of the heads. |
| Fish Bones/Scraps | 1:1 (by weight) | Good for a general seafood stock, but will not have the specific sweet, briny shrimp flavor. |
| Dried Shrimp | 10-20g per liter water | Concentrated umami, adds depth to Asian dishes, distinct flavor that's not identical to fresh heads. |
| Clam Juice/Powder | 1:1 (liquid) | Offers a briny, oceanic flavor for seafood recipes when fresh heads aren't available. |
How to Choose & Store Shrimp Head
- Buy fresh or frozen shrimp with heads on.
- Use heads immediately or freeze for later.
What Pairs Well With Shrimp Head?
- Garlic
- ginger
- chilies
- tomatoes
- white wine
- noodles
- rice
- saffron.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Shrimp Head taste like?
Briny, Sweet, Umami, Intense Seafood Pungent, Marine, Sweet (when fresh)
What is a good substitute for Shrimp Head?
The best substitute is Shrimp Shells (1:1 (by weight)). Provides excellent seafood flavor for stocks, but lacks the deeper richness and fat of the heads.
How do you choose and store Shrimp Head?
Buy fresh or frozen shrimp with heads on. Use heads immediately or freeze for later.