Royal red shrimp, scientifically known as Pleoticus Robustus, are a prized delicacy among seafood enthusiasts. These deepwater shrimp are harvested commercially in North America, particularly along the Gulf of Mexico and up to New England. What sets royal reds apart is their unique, tender texture and rich, lobster-like flavor, often compared to scallops, blue crab, or Pacific spot prawns.
Renowned seafood expert Hank Shaw, author of Hook, Line and Supper, describes his first experience with royal reds: “They were expensive but heavenly—lightly broiled and coated in lime butter. The texture was softer, almost creamy, and the taste was unforgettable.”
When Is Royal Red Shrimp Season?
Royal red shrimp are harvested from late summer to late fall, peaking in September. Unlike other shrimp, only a select number of fishermen are licensed to catch royal reds. To preserve their freshness, these shrimp are often flash-frozen aboard fishing boats immediately after being caught.
Thanks to this practice, royal reds are available nearly year-round, especially in Gulf states like Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida. Even beyond these areas, frozen royal reds can often be found in specialty seafood markets.
How to Cook Royal Red Shrimp
Cooking royal red shrimp requires finesse. Their delicate, tender texture means they cook faster than other shrimp species. Overcooking can ruin their luxurious quality, so follow these expert tips:
- Butter Poaching: Simmer them gently in melted butter for an indulgent, silky finish.
- Steaming: Preserve their natural sweetness by steaming them briefly.
- Grilling: If grilling, use very high heat and cook just until the flesh turns opaque. Avoid walking away from the grill to prevent overcooking.
- Raw Preparations: Royal reds are exceptional when served raw in dishes like Mexican aguachile, a quick version of ceviche that doesn’t require extended marination.
Hank Shaw emphasizes restraint when preparing royal reds: “Less is more. Don’t overpower them with heavy sauces or aggressive seasonings. Let their natural flavor shine.”
Where to Buy Royal Red Shrimp
If you’re lucky enough to live in Gulf states, you’ll find royal reds readily available in local seafood markets and restaurants. Popular spots for fresh royal reds include:
- The Blind Tiger (Coastal Mississippi): Enjoy peel-and-eat royal reds with stunning Gulf views.
- Knuckleheads (Ocean Springs, MS): Famous for their all-you-can-eat royal red nights.
- Shaggy’s (Multiple Locations): Known for royal red boils with corn and potatoes or their signature royal red roll.
- DeSoto’s Seafood Kitchen (Gulf Shores, AL): An old-school seafood house that always has royal reds on the menu.
- Aquila Seafood (Bon Secour, AL): A family-run market selling fresh royal reds for over 50 years.
For those outside the Gulf region, frozen royal reds are often sold in high-quality seafood markets. Northerners may encounter a similar variety, known as Stonington reds, in Connecticut and other New England markets.
Why Are Royal Red Shrimp Worth the Hype?
Royal red shrimp are a culinary treasure for seafood lovers, offering a unique blend of lobster-like richness and shrimp sweetness. Their short season and limited availability add to their allure, making them a must-try for anyone seeking gourmet seafood.
Whether you enjoy them grilled, poached, or as part of a seafood boil, royal red shrimp promise a dining experience that’s both luxurious and unforgettable.
How to Eat Royal Red Shrimp
Royal red shrimp are a Gulf Coast delicacy with a sweet, lobster-like flavor. Here’s how to enjoy them:
- Peel and Eat
- If served whole, start by removing the shell.
- Pinch the tail and gently pull the meat out.
- Some people also enjoy sucking the juices from the head for an extra burst of flavor.
- Dipped in Butter
- Like lobster, royal reds pair wonderfully with melted butter. A squeeze of lemon adds brightness.
- In a Boil
- If served in a seafood boil, enjoy them alongside corn, potatoes, and other boil fixings.
- In Dishes
- These shrimp are versatile. You can enjoy them in pasta, tacos, salads, or as the main protein in a meal.
- Raw Preparations
- For a unique experience, try them in aguachile or ceviche, where their natural sweetness shines.
Final Thoughts
Next time you’re near the Gulf Coast, don’t miss the opportunity to try royal red shrimp. From casual beachfront spots to gourmet seafood markets, these tender, flavorful crustaceans are sure to impress. Or, if you prefer cooking at home, grab a frozen batch and follow the tips above to enjoy the ultimate seafood indulgence.
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