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Phu Quoc mantis shrimp, an attractive dish for tourists

Phu Quoc mantis shrimp, an attractive dish for tourists

Mantis shrimp is a beloved seafood dish, renowned for its naturally sweet flavour and firm, succulent meat. However, not everyone knows the best way to eat mantis shrimp effortlessly and correctly.

What is Mantis Shrimp?

Mantis shrimp, also known as stomatopods, is a type of crustacean commonly found in various coastal regions, particularly in the waters around Phú Quốc. The mantis shrimp from this area is famous for its thick, flavourful meat, rich in nutrients, making it a must-try delicacy for seafood lovers.

Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp
Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp

How to Choose Fresh Mantis Shrimp

To enjoy mantis shrimp at its finest, selecting fresh, live ones is essential. Look for those that are actively moving and have a firm, robust body. A useful tip is to check the tail if it has a reddish-pink hue, this indicates the shrimp is carrying roe. When cooked, this variety offers an especially rich and buttery taste, making it even more irresistible.

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Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp
Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp

Delicious Mantis Shrimp Dishes

Beer-Steamed Mantis Shrimp

This simple yet irresistible dish preserves the shrimp’s natural sweetness while infusing it with the aromatic fragrance of beer. As you savour it, the fresh seafood flavour blends perfectly with the light bitterness of beer, creating an undeniably enticing experience. It’s an excellent choice for seafood feasts or cosy family gatherings.

Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp
Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp

Mantis Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce

A perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavours, this dish is ideal as a savoury treat to enjoy with drinks. The thick tamarind sauce coats every piece of shrimp, delivering a tangy and flavour-packed bite. This dish is a great option for social gatherings, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to a night out with friends.

Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp
Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp

Salt-Roasted Mantis Shrimp

With a crispy outer shell and flavourful, juicy meat inside, this dish is a true delight. The shrimp is evenly coated in a savoury salt seasoning, ensuring every bite is bursting with umami. It’s an excellent choice for seafood banquets or casual get-togethers.

Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp
Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp

Mantis Shrimp Noodle Soup

A perfect combination of delicate, naturally sweet broth and chewy, tender mantis shrimp. The clear, seafood-rich broth is paired with soft rice noodles, fresh herbs, crispy fried shallots, and a hint of spicy chilli, elevating the dish’s overall appeal. A steaming bowl of mantis shrimp noodle soup is not only delicious but also nourishing, making it a fantastic choice at any time of the day.

Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp
Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp

Mantis Shrimp & Bottle Gourd Soup

A light and refreshing dish, perfect for hot summer days. The natural sweetness of mantis shrimp complements the soft, fragrant bottle gourd, creating a clear yet flavourful broth. This simple yet comforting dish is an ideal addition to a wholesome family meal.

Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp
Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp

Mantis Shrimp Spring Rolls

A unique and crunchy delight, perfect for elegant dining occasions. Wrapped in a crispy golden shell, the filling combines naturally sweet mantis shrimp with a blend of aromatic seasonings. With every bite, you experience a satisfying crunch followed by a burst of rich, savoury goodness. These spring rolls are not only a fantastic addition to family meals but also an excellent choice for sophisticated dinner parties.

Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp
Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp

How to Store Mantis Shrimp

  • Best storage method: Lightly boil the shrimp, vacuum-seal them, and freeze.
  • Alternatively: Freeze them raw, but note that defrosting may cause moisture loss.
  • Consume within 1–2 weeks: To enjoy the best flavour and texture.

The Best Way to Eat Mantis Shrimp

Method 1: Cutting Along the Sides

The easiest and most effective way to peel mantis shrimp.

  1. Use scissors to cut off the head (if you wish to use it for broth, you can leave it intact).
  2. Turn the shrimp upside down and hold it at an angle for better handling.
  3. Cut along both rows of legs on either side of the body.
  4. Gently remove the shell to reveal the firm, sweet meat inside.
Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp
Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp

This method ensures clean removal of the shell without damaging the shrimp meat, enhancing the dining experience.

Method 2: Splitting Along the Back

A quick and convenient way to peel mantis shrimp.

  1. Use a small knife or scissors to cut along the centre of the shrimp’s back or belly.
  2. Gently pull apart the shell to expose the meat.
  3. Extract the meat and enjoy the naturally sweet flavour of mantis shrimp.

Both of these methods allow for easy peeling while keeping the meat intact, ensuring a satisfying and effortless eating experience.

Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp
Delicious and attractive Phu Quoc mantis shrimp

Tips for Buying Mantis Shrimp

  • Avoid buying dead mantis shrimp: Their meat quickly becomes mushy and loses its natural sweetness, reducing the quality of the dish.
  • If buying as a gift: Lightly boil the shrimp before packaging to retain freshness and prevent spoilage during transport.

Selecting high-quality mantis shrimp ensures the best ingredients for creating delicious seafood dishes.

When visiting Phú Quốc, don’t miss the chance to savour fresh mantis shrimp a delicacy that captures the essence of the ocean. Not only is it cherished for its firm, sweet meat, but it also embodies the warmth and generosity of the island’s people, leaving a lasting impression on all who taste it.

Some other delicious dishes in Phu Quoc