Forktionary

Shrimp Shell

Litopenaeus vannamei (Common Shrimp) Seafood By-product

Shrimp Shell Seafood By-product

At a Glance

  • Category Seafood By-product

The Forktionary Angle

"The secret ingredient for intensely flavorful seafood dishes."

Definition

The exoskeletal outer covering of a shrimp, often discarded but highly prized for its flavor in making stocks, broths, and sauces.

Chitin Content Contains chitin, a polysaccharide, contributing to texture and flavor compounds when cooked.
Culinary Usage Essential for creating rich, aromatic seafood stocks in professional kitchens.
Freezing Capability Can be frozen for up to 3 months, ideal for accumulating enough for stock.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Shrimp Shell are:

Umami briny sweet (subtle) seafood-rich

Chef’s Secret

Roast shrimp shells in a dry pan or with a touch of oil until fragrant before adding to water for stock; this deepens the flavor significantly.

Best Substitutes

Fish bones

for general seafood stock
Ratio 1:1

Crab shells

for richer stock
Ratio 1:1

Dried shrimp

for concentrated flavor
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Save shells from fresh, high-quality shrimp. Rinse them lightly to remove any grit, but don't wash away all the flavor.

Culinary Pairings

Seafood stock bisques paella ramen broth gumbo base seafood sauces