Keys Spicy Steamed Pink Shrimp (Large Group Version)

A spicy, hands-on Florida Keys classic! These shell-on pink shrimp are steamed in a flavorful mix of beer, vinegar, and Old Bay seasoning for a zesty, crowd-pleasing dish. Serve with plenty of cocktail sauce and lemon wedges—don’t forget the napkins! 

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes Servings: 12–14 

Ingredients 

- 6 to 7 pounds shell-on pink shrimp (thawed if frozen) - 3 quarts water - 3 (12 oz) bottles of beer (light lager or ale preferred) - 1/2 cup white vinegar - 6 ounces Old Bay seasoning (adjust to taste) - Optional: lemon pepper, garlic cloves, blackened seasoning - 2–3 jars cocktail sauce - Fresh lemon wedges, for serving 

Directions 

1. In a large stockpot, combine water, beer, vinegar, and half the Old Bay. Add garlic or other optional seasonings. Bring the liquid to a boil. 2. Place the shrimp in a large steamer basket or colander above the simmering liquid—do not submerge. Sprinkle the remaining Old Bay and any desired spices directly over the shrimp. 3. Cover tightly and steam for 5–7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and tails curl. 4. Remove the shrimp from the heat and serve immediately, or chill on ice if serving cold. Serve with cocktail sauce and lemon wedges. 

Flavor Tips & Creative Twists 

- Add a splash of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños to the steaming liquid for extra heat. - Swap beer for citrus-infused seltzer water for a lighter variation. - Chill shrimp after steaming for a cold seafood platter option—spread them on a chilled plate for an hour before serving. - Sprinkle shrimp with a mix of lemon pepper and dry Cajun rub for a bold twist. - Add other shellfish like scallops or crab legs for a full seafood spread. - For extra tender shrimp, avoid overcooking—remove from steam as soon as they’re pink and slightly curled. 

Serving Suggestions from the Keys 

- Serve hot with grilled corn and baked plantains. - Plate cold shrimp over greens with avocado and citrus vinaigrette. - Add leftovers to tacos with mango salsa. - Pair with garlic toast and spicy remoulade for dipping. - Make a chilled shrimp pasta salad with lime and cilantro. - Combine with steamed blue crab for a rustic Keys-style seafood boil.