[Full Guide] How Long To Steam Shrimp In Instant Pot?

Shrimp is a delicious and versatile seafood that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, from pastas to stir-fries to salads. One of the easiest and quickest ways to prepare shrimp is by steaming it, and using an Instant Pot can make the process even more convenient. Instant Pot, an electric pressure cooker, is a popular kitchen appliance that can also be used for steaming seafood, including shrimp. Steaming shrimp in an Instant Pot not only saves time but also ensures that the shrimp retains its natural flavor and juiciness. In this comprehensive guide, you will learn everything you need to know about steaming shrimp in an Instant Pot, from selecting the right shrimp to troubleshooting common issues.

Quick Answer: How Long To Steam Shrimp In Instant Pot

If you’re looking for a quick answer, the ideal cooking time for steaming shrimp in an Instant Pot is approximately 1-2 minutes on the high pressure setting. However, the precise cooking time can vary based on the size of the shrimp and whether they are fresh or frozen.

Selection

When it comes to selecting shrimp for steaming in an Instant Pot, it’s essential to choose high-quality, fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Look for shrimp that are firm, translucent, and have a mild ocean scent. You can also use frozen shrimp, but ensure that they are properly thawed before steaming.

Shrimp are available in various sizes, typically categorized by the count per pound. For example, jumbo shrimp may have a count of 16-20 per pound, while extra-large shrimp may be 21-25 per pound. The size of the shrimp will affect the cooking time, with larger shrimp requiring slightly longer steaming.

Preparation

Proper preparation of the shrimp is crucial for achieving the best results when steaming in an Instant Pot. Here’s how to prepare your shrimp for steaming:

1. Peeling and Deveining: If your shrimp are not already peeled and deveined, it’s important to do so before steaming. To peel the shrimp, start at the underside where the legs are attached and gently pull off the shell. To devein them, make a shallow incision along the back and remove the dark vein.

2. Rinsing: Thoroughly rinse the shrimp under cold water to remove any remaining shell fragments or impurities.

3. Drying: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the shrimp to steam evenly and prevents them from becoming too watery during the cooking process.

By following these preparation steps, you will ensure that your shrimp are ready to be steamed to perfection in the Instant Pot.

Instant Pot Cooking Times For Shrimp

The cooking time for steaming shrimp in an Instant Pot is relatively short, as overcooking can lead to rubbery and tough shrimp. The exact cooking time may differ based on the size and quantity of shrimp, but a general guideline is as follows:

• Fresh Medium or Large Shrimp: 1 minute at high pressure
• Fresh Jumbo Shrimp: 2 minutes at high pressure
• Frozen Medium or Large Shrimp: 2 minutes at high pressure
• Frozen Jumbo Shrimp: 3 minutes at high pressure

These times are based on using the Instant Pot with the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting. Keep in mind that the pot will take some time to come to pressure before the cooking time begins.

How To Steam Shrimp In Instant Pot

Now that you have selected and prepared your shrimp, it’s time to get your Instant Pot ready for steaming. Follow these step-by-step instructions to steam shrimp in an Instant Pot:

Step 1: Add Liquid

Pour 1 cup of water or seafood broth into the inner pot of the Instant Pot. The liquid will create the steam necessary to cook the shrimp. You can also enhance the flavor of the shrimp by adding herbs, spices, or citrus to the liquid.

Step 2: Place Trivet

Insert the trivet or a steamer basket into the Instant Pot. The trivet will elevate the shrimp above the liquid, ensuring that they are steamed rather than boiled.

Step 3: Arrange Shrimp

Place the prepared shrimp on the trivet or in the steamer basket in a single layer. Make sure the shrimp are not overcrowded to allow the steam to circulate around them evenly.

Step 4: Seal Instant Pot

Close the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring that the sealing ring is properly in place. Set the steam release valve to the "Sealing" position.

Step 5: Set Cooking Time

Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting on the Instant Pot and set the cooking time based on the guidelines provided earlier.

Step 6: Begin Cooking

After setting the cooking time, the Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure, after which the shrimp will begin cooking. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow a natural pressure release for a few minutes before carefully switching the steam release valve to the "Venting" position to release any remaining pressure.

Step 7: Open The Pot

Carefully open the lid of the Instant Pot, and your perfectly steamed shrimp are ready to be enjoyed in your favorite dish or as a standalone seafood delicacy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While steaming shrimp in an Instant Pot is a relatively straightforward process, you may encounter some common issues. Here are a few troubleshooting tips to ensure success:

Issue 1: Overcooked Shrimp

If your shrimp turn out tough and rubbery, it may be due to overcooking. To prevent this, ensure that you follow the recommended cooking times based on the size and freshness of the shrimp. Additionally, consider reducing the cooking time by a few seconds for smaller or extra-fresh shrimp.

Issue 2: Undercooked Shrimp

If your shrimp are undercooked and appear translucent, it’s essential to add a little extra cooking time. Keep in mind that the cooking time provided is a general guideline, and adjustments may be needed based on your specific Instant Pot and shrimp.

Issue 3: Uneven Cooking

To ensure that the shrimp cook evenly, arrange them in a single layer on the trivet or steamer basket. Overlapping or overcrowding the shrimp can lead to uneven cooking, with some shrimp being undercooked while others are overdone.

Issue 4: Nature Of Shrimp

Shrimp vary in size, moisture content, and freshness, which can impact the cooking process. Adjustments may be necessary based on the specific characteristics of the shrimp you are using.

By being mindful of these potential issues and making appropriate adjustments, you can achieve perfectly steamed shrimp in your Instant Pot.

Steaming shrimp in an Instant Pot is a hassle-free and efficient way to prepare this delectable seafood. By selecting high-quality shrimp, properly preparing them, and following the recommended cooking times, you can enjoy tender, succulent shrimp with minimal effort. The Instant Pot streamlines the steaming process, making it an excellent option for busy weeknight dinners or impressive seafood feasts. Whether you plan to incorporate steamed shrimp into a dish or savor them on their own, the Instant Pot offers a convenient solution for achieving outstanding results. With the guidance provided in this comprehensive guide, you can confidently steam shrimp in your Instant Pot and elevate your culinary creations with this flavorful and nutritious seafood.

Instant Pot Cook Times For Frozen Shrimp

Shrimp is a versatile and delicious seafood option that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. One popular method of cooking shrimp is steaming, as it helps retain the natural flavors and textures of the shrimp. And what better way to steam shrimp than with the convenience of an Instant Pot?

When it comes to cooking shrimp in the Instant Pot, one of the advantages is that you can cook them directly from the freezer, making it a convenient option for those times when you’re short on time or forgot to thaw your shrimps.

Here are some general guidelines for cooking frozen shrimp in an Instant Pot:

1. Small-sized shrimp (41-50 count): 1 to 2 minutes on high pressure.
2. Medium-sized shrimp (31-40 count): 2 to 3 minutes on high pressure.
3. Large-sized shrimp (21-30 count): 3 to 4 minutes on high pressure.

It’s important to note that these cook times are based on using raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp. If your shrimp are already cooked or have the shell on, the cook times may slightly vary. Adjust the cooking times accordingly based on the size and type of shrimp you have.

Achieving Perfect Texture

To ensure that your steamed shrimp turn out with the perfect texture, follow these tips:

1. Use the trivet: Place a trivet or a steamer basket inside your Instant Pot before adding the shrimp. This will elevate the shrimp above the liquid and prevent them from being submerged or overcooked.
2. Avoid overcooking: Shrimp cook extremely fast and can become rubbery if overcooked. Follow the cook times mentioned above and release pressure immediately once the cooking time is up to prevent overcooking.
3. Quick-release pressure: After the cooking time is complete, do a quick-release of pressure to immediately stop the cooking process and prevent the shrimp from becoming overcooked.

By following these guidelines, you can achieve tender, juicy, and perfectly cooked shrimp every time.

Flavor Infusion

While steaming shrimp in an Instant Pot helps preserve their natural flavors, you can also infuse them with additional flavors and aromatics to enhance their taste. Here are some ideas for adding flavor to your steamed shrimp:

1. Spices: Sprinkle your shrimp with your favorite spices before cooking, such as Old Bay seasoning, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, or chili flakes.
2. Citrus: Squeeze some fresh lemon, lime, or orange juice over the shrimp before cooking. You can also add citrus zest for an extra burst of flavor.
3. Herbs: Add some fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, dill, or basil to the Instant Pot. Their aromatic properties will infuse the shrimp with delightful flavors.
4. Broth: Use flavorful broths or stocks instead of water to add depth to the steam. Vegetable, chicken, or seafood broth can enhance the taste of the shrimp.

Experimenting with different combinations of flavors can create exciting variations and complement the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

Other Instant Pot Cooking Methods For Shrimp

Aside from steaming, the Instant Pot offers various cooking methods to prepare shrimp, allowing you to explore different textures and flavors. Here are a few methods to try:

1. Sauté: Use the sauté function on your Instant Pot to quickly cook shrimp with a little oil or butter. This method is great for stir-fries, shrimp scampi, or any recipe that requires searing the shrimp before adding other ingredients.
2. Poach: Poaching shrimp in the Instant Pot is a gentle and healthy cooking method that results in tender and succulent shrimp. To poach your shrimp, place them in a light poaching liquid such as water, broth, or wine, and cook them on low pressure for a few minutes. Poached shrimp can be enjoyed cold in salads or used in other dishes like shrimp cocktail.
3. Stew: Shrimp can be a fantastic addition to hearty stews and chowders. Simply add the raw or cooked shrimp to the Instant Pot along with other ingredients like vegetables, stock, and seasonings, and cook on high pressure for the required time.
4. Rice cooker: If you’re making a dish like jambalaya or paella that includes both rice and shrimp, you can use the Instant Pot as a rice cooker. Cook the rice first, then add the shrimp on top before sealing the pot and cooking on low pressure for a few minutes.

These alternative cooking methods open up a world of possibilities for preparing shrimp in the Instant Pot, offering versatility and convenience.

Instant Pot Tips For Shrimp

To ensure that your Instant Pot shrimp dishes turn out perfect every time, here are some additional tips:

1. Seasoning: Don’t shy away from seasoning your shrimp generously, as they can absorb flavors well. Add your favorite seasonings, herbs, and spices based on the desired flavors you want to infuse into the shrimp.
2. Size consistency: Try to use shrimp that are similar in size, so they cook evenly. If you have a mix of shrimp sizes, consider cooking them in separate batches or add the larger ones a few minutes before the smaller ones.
3. Thawing: While cooking shrimp directly from the freezer is convenient, thawing them beforehand can result in more consistent cook times and texture. If you have the time, it’s recommended to thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
4. Accurate timing: Use a timer or the Instant Pot’s built-in timer to keep track of the cooking time accurately. Overcooking shrimp even by a minute can make a significant difference in texture.
5. Deglazing: If you sauté the shrimp before adding other ingredients, deglaze the pot by adding a small amount of liquid such as broth or wine. This step ensures that any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot are incorporated into the dish and not wasted.
6. Be mindful of the release: When releasing pressure, be cautious of the steam and use a towel or a long utensil to turn the valve, as it can cause burns. It’s also advisable to release the pressure in short bursts to prevent any potential splattering.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can make the most out of your Instant Pot and create delicious shrimp dishes.

Creative Instant Pot Shrimp Recipes And Variations

Now that you know how to steam shrimp in an Instant Pot and have explored other cooking methods, let’s delve into some creative shrimp recipes and variations you can try:

1. Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

• In the Instant Pot, add the butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
• Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and cook for 2-3 minutes until the butter is melted and the garlic is fragrant.
• Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the pot and stir to coat them with the lemon garlic butter sauce.
• Close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing.
• Cook on high pressure for 2 minutes.
• Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick-release of pressure and carefully open the lid.
• Sprinkle the shrimp with salt, pepper, and fresh parsley before serving.

2. Cajun Shrimp And Sausage Jambalaya

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup of Andouille sausage, sliced
• 1 cup of bell peppers, diced
• 1 cup of onion, diced
• 1 cup of celery, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup of long-grain white rice
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes with juice
• 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

• Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the Andouille sausage. Cook until browned, then remove from the pot and set aside.
• In the same pot, add the bell peppers, onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
• Add the rice, diced tomatoes, broth, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
• Close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing.
• Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes.
• Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick-release of pressure and carefully open the lid.
• Add the peeled and deveined shrimp and cooked Andouille sausage to the pot. Stir well to combine.
• Close the Instant Pot lid again and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the residual heat to cook the shrimp.
• After 5 minutes, open the lid and stir the jambalaya to combine all the flavors.
• Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

3. Sweet And Spicy Honey Garlic Shrimp

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons of honey
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon of cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, sriracha sauce, cornstarch, salt, and pepper to make the sauce.
• Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the sauce and toss to coat.
• Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and add the shrimp along with the sauce to the pot.
• Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and the sauce thickens slightly.
• Close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing.
• Cook on high pressure for 1 minute.
• Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick-release of pressure and carefully open the lid.
• Serve the sweet and spicy honey garlic shrimp over rice or noodles, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Feel free to customize these recipes by adding your favorite vegetables, adjusting the seasonings to your liking, or incorporating other ingredients to make them your own.

Conclusion

Cooking shrimp in an Instant Pot is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this delicious seafood. Whether you choose to steam, sauté, poach, or stew them, the Instant Pot offers endless possibilities for preparing shrimp-based dishes. By following the guidelines and tips provided in this article, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly cooked shrimp with amazing flavors. So grab your Instant Pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the delightful taste of steamed shrimp prepared effortlessly.

FAQS

What Ingredients Do I Need To Steam Shrimp In An Instant Pot?

To steam shrimp in an instant pot, you will need raw shrimp, water, lemon juice, garlic cloves, and your choice of spices such as Old Bay seasoning or Cajun seasoning.

How Much Water Should I Use In The Instant Pot For Steaming Shrimp?

The general rule is to use 1 cup of water for every 1 pound of shrimp. However, you can adjust this according to your personal preference for the level of moisture in your dish.

How Long Does It Take To Steam Shrimp In An Instant Pot?

It typically takes around 2-3 minutes for the instant pot to come to pressure, and then 2-3 minutes for the shrimp to cook. Therefore, the total cooking time will be around 4-6 minutes.

Do I Need To Use A Steamer Basket Or Can I Place The Shrimp Directly In The Instant Pot?

It is recommended to use a steamer basket to prevent the shrimp from getting overcooked or sticking to the bottom of the pot. However, if you do not have a steamer basket, you can place the shrimp directly in the instant pot with a little water at the bottom.

How Can I Tell If The Shrimp Is Fully Cooked?

Shrimp is fully cooked when it turns pink and opaque. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the shrimp has reached at least 145°F (63°C). Overcooked shrimp will be tough and rubbery, so be sure to keep an eye on them while they cook.