Austin Liu
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Towards Reliable Doneness Estimation in Argentinian Red Shrimp Using Cheese-Based Visual Indicators

Yield
2–3 servings
Oven / Air fry time
6–8 min

Abstract

Colour change is commonly employed as a visual indicator of shrimp doneness. However, this approach is unsuitable for Pleoticus muelleri, the Argentinian red shrimp, which exhibits red pigmentation even before cooking. Its relatively short cooking time further complicates the assessment of doneness, increasing the risk of overcooking. We propose an alternative method using melted cheese as a visual proxy for shrimp doneness. By monitoring the melting and bubbling of cheese, cooking time can be estimated without relying on changes in shrimp colour. Preliminary results from a single trial yielded shrimp with a lobster-like flavour at substantially lower cost. No control group was established, as all available specimens were consumed.

Argentinian red shrimp halved lengthwise in their shells, topped with melted cheese and chopped parsley, on a rack in a small metal tray.
Figure 1. Halved red shrimp under melted cheese and parsley, on a rack so they don’t sit in the butter that runs off.

1. Materials

  • 8 large Argentinian red shrimp, head-on, thawed
  • 30 g butter, softened
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 40 g mozzarella, grated, plus 1 tbsp parmesan
  • 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
  • Salt, black pepper and a lemon wedge

Apparatus. A small baking tray with a rack and a sharp knife.

2. Method

  1. Thaw them overnight in the fridge, or in their sealed bag under cold running water. Pat dry.
  2. Split each shrimp and devein.
  3. Butter. Mash the butter with the garlic, half the parsley, salt and pepper, then spread it over the cut sides.
  4. Cheese. Scatter the mozzarella and parmesan over the top.
  5. Bake or **air-fry at 220°C for 6–8 minutes, until the cheese bubbles and the flesh just under it has turned opaque white.
  6. Finish with the rest of the parsley and a squeeze of lemon. Serve immediately.

3. Discussion

It’s probably better not to cook them all the way through. Admittedly it is hard to tell doneness due to the fact that the shrimp are already red, but the cheese serves as a decent. indicator.

Also beware that they cook faster than other shrimp/prawns.

4. Conflict of interests

Competing interest is declared.