Is shrimp suppose to be chewy?

Here's why shrimp might be chewy:

* Overcooked: Overcooking shrimp is the most common reason for chewiness. Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking them toughens the protein.

* Old Shrimp: Older shrimp can be tougher and chewier. Look for fresh shrimp with a firm texture and a mild, sweet smell.

* Incorrect Cooking Method: Certain cooking methods, like frying, can make shrimp tougher.

* Frozen Shrimp: Frozen shrimp can sometimes be tougher than fresh shrimp, especially if not thawed properly.

Tips for tender shrimp:

* Cook Quickly: Shrimp cook very quickly, typically 2-3 minutes per side.

* Don't Overcrowd: Overcrowding the pan will cause the shrimp to steam instead of sear, resulting in a tougher texture.

* Use High Heat: High heat helps sear the shrimp quickly and evenly.

* Don't Overmix: Overmixing shrimp in the pan can toughen them.

* Check for Doneness: Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque, with a slight curl in the tail.

* Cool Down Quickly: Once cooked, quickly chill the shrimp in an ice bath to stop the cooking process and prevent them from overcooking.

If your shrimp is consistently chewy, it's likely a problem with your cooking method. Experiment with different techniques until you find one that gives you the tender shrimp you're looking for.