How Long to Cook Shrimp in Lime Juice for Perfectly Tender Results

Cooking shrimp in lime juice is a quick and easy way to add incredible flavor. The acidity in the lime juice actually “cooks” the shrimp resulting in tender juicy seafood with a tangy citrus kick. But exactly how long does it take to cook shrimp this way?

When making ceviche, shrimp cocktail, and other lime juice-based shrimp dishes, following the proper timing is key Undercook the shrimp and it will be unsafe to eat Overcook it and you’ll end up with rubbery, overdone shrimp.

In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about cooking shrimp in lime juice. With these simple tips and timing guidelines, you’ll be able to achieve perfect results every time.

Why Cook Shrimp in Lime Juice?

Cooking shrimp in an acidic marinade like lime juice offers several advantages:

• Imparts bright, fresh flavor from the lime
• Tenderizes the shrimp naturally without heat
• Infuses the shrimp with extra moisture and flavor
• Allows for no-cook shrimp dishes perfect for hot days
• It’s a quick and easy cooking method

The acid in the lime juice essentially replicates the effects of heat cooking. It firms up and “cooks” the proteins in the shrimp, turning it from translucent to opaque.

Lime cooked shrimp has a delicate texture and works great in ceviche, shrimp cocktail, and citrusy shrimp salads.

How Long Should You Cook Shrimp in Lime Juice?

Shrimp cooks very quickly in lime juice – usually 15 minutes or less. Here are general guidelines for lime juice cooking times:

• Small shrimp – 10 to 15 minutes
• Medium shrimp – 12 to 15 minutes
• Large/jumbo shrimp – 15 to 18 minutes

These times are for raw, peeled shrimp soaked in fresh lime juice. The juice must fully cover the shrimp.

To test doneness, check that the flesh is opaque and firm. Translucent, mushy portions mean it’s underdone.

If unsure, it’s better to risk slightly undercooking rather than overcooking. You can always let it soak longer, but overdone shrimp can’t be reversed.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow this simple process for cooking shrimp in lime juice:

1. Peel and devein the shrimp, removing shells and tails if desired. Rinse.

2. Cut shrimp into small, uniform pieces to enable even cooking (about 1/4 inch pieces).

3. Place shrimp in a non-reactive bowl and cover with fresh lime juice. Use a ratio of 2 parts lime juice to 1 part shrimp.

4. Let stand 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Shrimp will gradually turn opaque as it “cooks”.

5. Check doneness and taste shrimp. If needed, let soak 5 minutes longer until fully opaque.

6. Drain excess lime juice from shrimp once cooked through. Use shrimp immediately in recipes.

And that’s it! Proper timing is important, but the process itself is easy.

Tips for Cooking Shrimp in Lime Juice

Follow these tips for best results when cooking shrimp in lime juice:

• Use fresh lime juice only – bottled juice won’t have enough acidity
• Chill the lime juice and shrimp before combining
• Cut shrimp into small, uniform pieces so it cooks evenly
• Make sure shrimp is fully submerged in the lime juice
• Stir shrimp occasionally as it marinates
• Don’t overcook – texture will become rubbery
• Use cooked shrimp right away for best flavor and texture

Cooking shrimp in lime juice is perfect for shrimp cocktail, ceviche, citrus shrimp salad, and other no-cook shrimp dishes. Adjust cook times as needed based on shrimp size.

With the proper timing, you’ll be able to achieve tender shrimp infused with bright, refreshing lime flavor. Just be careful not to overdo it!

FAQs

Can I use thawed frozen shrimp?

Yes, thawed frozen shrimp can be used. Cut into small pieces and marinate in lime juice 15-20 minutes.

What about pre-cooked shrimp?

Pre-cooked shrimp can also be used but will only need 5-10 minutes in the lime juice to absorb flavor.

Do I need to peel the shrimp first?

Yes, peel and devein shrimp before marinating in lime juice for food safety.

Can I use lemon or orange juice instead?

Lemon or orange juice can be substituted but may require longer marinating times due to lower acidity.

Can I add seasonings or other ingredients?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with adding garlic, cilantro, chili powder or other seasonings.

Master the simple art of lime juice “cooking” and you’ll be able to enjoy tasty shrimp dishes without heating up the kitchen. Just be sure to follow the timing guidelines. Perfectly cooked, lime-infused shrimp is just minutes away!