It's important not to overcook shrimp or it will become dry and rubbery. Cook only until the flesh is opaque. When using a boiling method, the shrimp will turn pink, rise to the top and float when done. 

 

Some recipes will cook the shrimp within the recipe itself. Others will require you cook the shrimp ahead, usually via a simple boiling method and perhaps with a spice mixture. 

 

You can make a broth by boiling the shells from shrimp with spices, onion, and garlic. Cool and sift through cheesecloth when the desired strength is achieved, and freeze for later use in soups or chowders. 

 

Use beer for your cooking liquid to give shrimp a slightly sweet flavor.

 

Discard the shrimp if it smells off or has a strong ammonia odor.

 

It's easier to peel and devein raw shrimp rather than cooked shrimp. 

Shrimp cooked in the shell has more flavor than shrimp peeled before cooking.