In Honor of National Shrimp Day
One of the smallest and tastiest seafoods is celebrated every May 10. In honor of National Shrimp Day, we will share some history and trivia mixed with shrimp recipes. If you’d like to cook them at home, check out our article on how to peel and devein shrimp like a pro. We strive to accommodate all seafood-related home cooking at City Fish Market. That includes offering fresh medium shrimp, large shrimp, and jumbo shrimp, though not all sizes are in stock at all times—so please call ahead.
A Little Shrimp History
Since ancient times, shrimp has been valued as a delectable food. A popular dish found in shrimp recipe books around the 4th century A.D. centered around fig leaves and shrimp with a honey glaze. It may have tasted similar to this Fig Leaf Honey Walnut Shrimp. Along those lines, here’s a gorgeous Crispy Honey Walnut Shrimp recipe that would zhuzh up any table. Perfect for a National Shrimp Day party!
Back in 1280, Marco Polo traveled to China and learned how nutritious shrimp is. It was incredibly popular at the time. He found out that since the 7th century, shrimp heavily influenced Chinese diets. Present-day Chinese dishes still incorporate shrimp. Terrific recipes include Potstickers (Chinese Dumplings) and Shrimp Stirfry.
Where was Shrimp and Grits Declared the Official State Food in 1976?
It is believed that the true origin of shrimp and grits is Charleston, South Carolina. The recipe made its first appearance there in 1950 as a breakfast recipe published in a Charleston cookbook. In 1976, shrimp and grits had become so popular, it was declared the official state food.
Some highly recommended versions of shrimp and grits follow:
- Shrimp and Grits with Jenn Segal
- Easy Classic Shrimp and Grits from bowl of delicious (the most 5-star ratings)
- How to Make the Best Ever Shrimp & Grits Recipe, a video from Mr. Make It Happen
More Shrimp Trivia
If you plan a dinner in celebration of National Shrimp Day, you may add to the fun with some shrimp trivia. Wow your nerdy friends with your deep knowledge of these yummy seafood delicacies:
*Did you know that, worldwide, there are over 2,000 species of shrimp?
*I just love that shrimp is incredibly nutritious, don’t you? It’s a dense protein that can reduce inflammation in your body because it contains antioxidants.
*Did you know that there’s a shrimp that literally packs a powerful punch? The Mantis shrimp can knock a crab’s arm off. Snails better watch out, too, because the Mantis shrimp can crack through their shells. Do you know what the secret is? Incredibly, the shrimp’s strength is a result of its lightning-fast movement, which is comparable to that of a speeding bullet as it exits a gun.
Visit City Fish Market for Fresh Shrimp in a Variety of Sizes
What might your favorite plans be in honor of National Shrimp Day? We have an idea for you. Visit City Fish Market at 884 Silas Deane Hwy in Wethersfield CT, where our retail counter offers the freshest and widest selection of imported and domestic shrimp. Options include shell on, cooked, and deveined. Also, we don’t know about you, but we are already looking forward to National Fish Taco Day on January 25 of next year.
Whether for shrimp, fish for fish tacos, live Maine lobsters, oysters, tuna, salmon, or any other fresh seafood, visit us today! If you need delivery, give us a call at 860-522-3129 or fill out our online form. We’re fast, but we certainly don’t deliver as fast as a Mantis shrimp’s punch.