Mantis Shrimp Seafood in Singapore: A Casual Foodie's Guide
Mantis Shrimp Seafood in Singapore: A Casual Foodie's Guide
If you're a seafood lover in Singapore, you've probably heard of the mantis shrimp. This unique crustacean is prized for its sweet and succulent meat, which is said to have a flavour that is both similar to and distinct from other types of shrimp. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the mantis shrimp, exploring everything from where to buy it to how to cook it.
Mantis shrimp is a popular ingredient in many Singaporean dishes, from stir-fries to soups to sushi. Despite its name, the mantis shrimp is not actually a shrimp at all, but rather a type of crustacean that is related to crabs and lobsters. It is known for its distinctive appearance, which includes a long, slender body and a pair of powerful claws that it uses to catch its prey.
Whether you're a seasoned seafood chef or just looking to try something new, the mantis shrimp is definitely worth a try. In the following sections, we'll provide an overview of this unique seafood, as well as tips on how to select and prepare it.
Key Takeaways
- Mantis shrimp is a unique and delicious seafood that is popular in Singaporean cuisine.
- When buying mantis shrimp, look for specimens that are fresh and free of damage.
- Mantis shrimp can be cooked in a variety of ways, including stir-frying, boiling, and grilling.
Overview of Mantis Shrimp in Singapore
If you are a seafood lover in Singapore, you must have heard of mantis shrimp. Mantis shrimp, also known as stomatopods, are a type of crustacean that are popular in Singapore's food culture. In this section, we will give you an overview of mantis shrimp in Singapore, including their popularity and how they compare to other seafood.
Popularity in Singapore Food Culture
Mantis shrimp are highly valued in Singapore's food culture due to their unique taste and texture. They are often served in local seafood restaurants and hawker centres, and can be cooked in a variety of ways such as steaming, stir-frying, and grilling. Mantis shrimp are also used in traditional Chinese medicine for their supposed health benefits.
Compared to other seafood, mantis shrimp are relatively easy to prepare and cook. They are also less expensive than other premium seafood such as crab and lobster, making them a popular choice for those on a budget.
Comparison with Other Seafood
Mantis shrimp are often compared to other types of seafood such as prawns, crab, and lobster. While they may not be as well-known as these other types of seafood, mantis shrimp have their own unique taste and texture that sets them apart.
Mantis shrimp have a sweet, delicate flavour that is often described as a cross between lobster and crab. They also have a firm, meaty texture that is similar to that of lobster. Compared to prawns, mantis shrimp are larger and have a more complex flavour profile.
In summary, mantis shrimp are a popular and unique type of seafood in Singapore's food culture. They are easy to prepare and cook, and are often served in local seafood restaurants and hawker centres. While they may not be as well-known as other types of seafood such as crab and lobster, mantis shrimp have their own unique taste and texture that make them a must-try for any seafood lover.
Buying Guide for Mantis Shrimp
If you're planning to buy Mantis Shrimp in Singapore, there are a few things you should know to ensure you get the best quality product for your money. Here's a quick buying guide to help you out.
Selecting Fresh Mantis Shrimp
When buying Mantis Shrimp, look for those that are fresh and still alive. You can tell if the Mantis Shrimp is fresh by checking its eyes and antennae. The eyes should be clear, and the antennae should be moving. If the eyes are cloudy or the antennae are not moving, then the Mantis Shrimp is not fresh.
Understanding Pricing and Weight
Mantis Shrimp is sold by weight, and the price can vary depending on the size and whether it is raw or deshelled. Raw Mantis Shrimp is usually cheaper than deshelled Mantis Shrimp because it requires more work to prepare. The price can also vary depending on the season and availability.
Here's a table to give you an idea of the price range of Mantis Shrimp in Singapore:
| Type of Mantis Shrimp | Price (SGD) |
|---|---|
| Raw Mantis Shrimp | 20 - 30 per kg |
| Deshelled Mantis Shrimp | 40 - 60 per kg |
| Frozen Mantis Shrimp | 15 - 25 per kg |
When buying Mantis Shrimp, it's important to consider the weight. The weight of Mantis Shrimp can range from 500g to 1kg. If you're buying Mantis Shrimp for a large group, it's best to buy in bulk to get a better price.
In conclusion, when buying Mantis Shrimp in Singapore, always check for freshness and consider the price and weight to get the best value for your money.
Cooking and Recipes
Preparing Mantis Shrimp
Mantis shrimp is a delicious seafood that is popular in Singaporean cuisine. Before cooking, it is important to properly prepare the mantis shrimp. Start by cleaning the mantis shrimp thoroughly by removing the outer shell, tail, and head. Next, devein the mantis shrimp by removing the black vein that runs down its back. You can do this by using a sharp knife or scissors to make a small incision along the back of the shrimp and pulling out the vein.
Popular Mantis Shrimp Dishes
There are many ways to cook mantis shrimp, but one of the most popular ways in Singapore is to prepare it with sambal, a spicy sauce made from chilli peppers, garlic, and other ingredients. The sambal gives the mantis shrimp a delicious flavour and texture that is sure to please your taste buds.
Another popular way to cook mantis shrimp is to steam it with ginger and soy sauce. This method of cooking brings out the natural sweetness of the mantis shrimp and gives it a tender texture that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
If you're looking for a more adventurous way to cook mantis shrimp, you can try making mantis shrimp fritters. To make the fritters, mix chopped mantis shrimp with flour, eggs, and other ingredients, then fry them until they are golden brown and crispy.
No matter how you choose to cook mantis shrimp, it is sure to be a delicious and flavourful addition to your next meal. Try out some of these recipes and enjoy the unique taste of this popular Singaporean seafood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy mantis shrimp in Singapore?
You can find mantis shrimp in most seafood markets in Singapore, including Chinatown Wet Market and Tekka Market. You can also purchase them online from seafood delivery services like Seafood Supplier Singapore.
What's the going rate for mantis shrimp in Singapore?
The price of mantis shrimp varies depending on the season and availability. On average, you can expect to pay around SGD 20 to SGD 30 per kilogram.
Could you suggest a good mantis shrimp recipe?
Mantis shrimp is a delicacy in Singapore and can be prepared in a variety of ways. One popular recipe is stir-fried mantis shrimp with garlic and chilli. You can find a detailed recipe here.
Any recommendations on where to find reviews for mantis shrimp in Singapore?
You can find reviews for mantis shrimp on popular food blogs and forums like HungryGoWhere and Burpple.
Is it possible to keep a mantis shrimp as a pet in Singapore?
While it is legal to keep mantis shrimp as pets in Singapore, it is not recommended as they require a specific environment and can be aggressive. It is also important to note that some species of mantis shrimp are protected and cannot be kept as pets.
How does one arrange for delivery of mantis shrimp in Singapore?
You can arrange for delivery of mantis shrimp in Singapore through seafood delivery services like Seafood Supplier Singapore. They offer same-day delivery for orders placed before 12 pm.