Mantis Shrimp aren’t well-covered across the internet as a delicacy. A ton of content is dedicated to their habits as predators and their ability to “thumb split” or hurt humans. They can be misunderstood and underrated because of this, which is a shame because you don’t get answers to questions, like: What does mantis shrimp taste like?
In short, they generally have a sweet taste, like lobster, and a similar texture as well. The consistency can be a bit softer than lobsters as well.
Some people liken it to a cross between lobster and crab, while others say that it has a more unique flavor that cannot be compared to any other type of seafood. Let’s find out what this fantastic seafood item tastes like.
We cover the following items in this post:
- Are Mantis Shrimp Edible?
- What Does Mantis Shrimp Taste Like?
- Is Mantis Shrimp Good to Eat?
- Who Eats Mantis Shrimp?
- Eating Mantis Shrimp: The How-To Guide
- How Expensive Is A Mantis Shrimp?
- Final Thoughts
Are Mantis Shrimp Edible?
The short answer is yes, mantis shrimp are edible. However, they are not commonly found in grocery stores or on restaurant menus across the United States and some other larger countries. This is because they are considered to be a delicacy in many parts of the world, and their small size makes them difficult to harvest on a large scale.
Mantis shrimp can be found fresh or frozen at specialty seafood markets, and they are sometimes sold live in Asian markets. If you are lucky enough to find them, mantis shrimp make a great addition to any seafood-based dish!
So, What Does Mantis Shrimp Taste Like?
They’re sweet, a bit firm, and slightly chewy. They’re a little bit less firm than lobster and more similar in texture to a traditional shrimp.
Compared to the taste of traditional shrimp, mantis shrimp are sweeter and have a more powerful flavor.
They’re sought after for their sweet, succulent flavor. While the mantis shrimp’s appearance may be off-putting to some, those who are brave enough to try it don’t often regret it, especially those who generally enjoy seafood.
The mantis shrimp is most commonly found in the warm waters of the Indo-Pacific region, and it is typically harvested by hand. They often live in burrows, crevices, and coral reefs. They can be found at depths of 1,500 meters below sea level.
When cooked, the mantis shrimp has a tender, white flesh that is similar to lobster or crab meat. It can be enjoyed steamed, grilled, or boiled, and it is often served with a dipping sauce or butter. So next time you’re in the mood for seafood, don’t be afraid to give the mantis shrimp a try – you’ll be glad you did!
What Does Mantis Prawn Taste Like?
Mantis prawn meat tastes the same as any meat from a mantis shrimp. So, the above information remains accurate for this question.
Is Mantis Shrimp Good to Eat?
They are! They’re a bit unusual to look at, but mantis shrimp are very tasty. It can be a lot of work to get through the shell, but it’s well worth the effort once you get to the meat.
If you’re looking for an easier alternative to make at home, traditional shrimp should do the trick.
However, seafood can spoil quickly. So, be on the lookout for shrimp that tastes fishy after you’ve prepared it. That’s a strong indicator that the shrimp has gone bad.
Who Eats Mantis Shrimp?
Mantis shrimp can be found in restaurants and seafood markets internationally. However, the below cultures are more commonly associated with the consumption of mantis shrimp:
- Japanese
- Vietnamese
- Phillipino
- Hawaiin
- Cantonese
- Various Mediterranean cultures
Eating Mantis Shrimp: The How-To Guide
The above information is helpful, but you’re likely still wondering: How do I cook mantis shrimp?
This delicious crustacean can be found in many markets and is prized for its sweet, delicate flavor. Here’s everything you need to know about cooking and eating mantis shrimp:
Choose Your Mantis Shrimp Wisely
Look for fresh mantis shrimp at your local market and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to prepare them.
The mantis shrimp has gone bad if you notice the following:
- The shrimp appears discolored
- There are moldy spots
- The shrimp has a strong, sharp smell or smells almost like ammonia
- The eyes are shrunken in or discolored
- The expiration date has passed!
Remove The Vein That Runs Through The Shrimp’s Back Before Eating
Prior to adding seasoning and cooking, you need to remove the vein that runs through the shrimp’s back. This is simply known as deveining. Failure to do so can result in the digestion of unwanted bacteria and can lead to illness.
The good news is that removing the shrimp vein is easy to do. Simply use a sharp knife to make a small slit along the length of the shrimp’s back. Then, use your fingers or a fork to loosen and remove the vein. Once it’s out, you can enjoy your shrimp with peace of mind!
Cook The Mantis Shrimp Using Your Preferred Method (Steaming, Boiling, Grilling, etc.)
A beautiful thing about mantis shrimp is that they can be prepared in many different ways and can be the main event in a seafood dish. Steaming, boiling, and grilling are all popular methods of cooking mantis shrimp, and each one results in a delicious dish.
- When steaming mantis shrimp, be sure to add some flavorful herbs or spices to the water for an extra kick of flavor. For a simple yet tasty boiled mantis shrimp, simply boil the shrimp in water for 3-4 minutes until cooked through.
- If you’re looking to impress your guests, try grilling the mantis shrimp. Season the shrimp with your favorite spices and grill for 2-3 minutes per side. No matter how you cook it, the mantis shrimp is sure to be a hit
We recommend some butter in your preparation. We all know butter generally makes just about every dish better, and mantis shrimp safely fit in that category.
Serve Mantis Shrimp With Your Favorite Dipping Sauce And Enjoy!
Mantis shrimp are packed with protein and low in calories, making them a healthy option for any meal. And their firm texture and distinctive flavor make them a perfect addition to any dips or sauces.
Butter is often most common, as we noted above. However, the below options also pair nicely with mantis shrimp:
- Sour cream and chipotle sauce
- Siracha mayo sauce
- Hot sauce
- Curried yogurt
- Seasoned butter
Store Leftover Mantis Shrimp In an Airtight Container and Refrigerate Them
If you have leftovers, be sure to store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
Mantis shrimp will stay fresh for up to 2 days when stored properly. When ready to enjoy, simply cook the shrimp using your preferred method.
If you pass the 2-day mark, we recommend throwing them away to be safe.
How Expensive Is A Mantis Shrimp?
This question is hard to answer as inflation always leads to slight changes. But for the most part, mantis shrimp generally costs between $100 and $140 depending on where you’re looking.
Can You Keep A Mantis Shrimp As A Pet?
Yes, you can. But, if you’re looking to purchase one as a pet, be aware of the following:
- Mantis shrimp are considered one of the most aggressive and destructive creatures in the marine world.
- They have been known to break through aquarium glass, and their powerful claws can easily injure or kill other fish.
- In addition, mantis shrimp are voracious predators, and they will not hesitate to eat smaller fish if given the chance.
- If you decide to add a mantis shrimp to your aquarium, be sure to choose a species that is known to be peaceful and pick out an individual that has a calm personality.
What Is The Lifespan Of A Mantis Shrimp?
They live to be about 20 years old on average.
With proper care, a mantis shrimp can make an interesting and entertaining addition to your tank—but only if you choose wisely.
Final Thoughts: What Do Mantis Shrimp Taste Like?
Mantis shrimp are a delicious, nutritious seafood option that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
When cooked properly, mantis shrimp have a sweet, delicate flavor that is sure to please any palate. Whether you steam, boil, or grill them, mantis shrimp are sure to be a hit!
So, next time you’re looking for a tasty and healthy appetizer, be sure to give them a try. Bon appetite!