What is Rock shrimp (Sicyonia brevirostris)?

Rock shrimp Rock shrimp

Common names for Rock shrimp

Brown rock shrimp

Other languages for Rock shrimp

  • French name: Boucot ovetgernade
  • Italian name: N/A
  • German name: Furchen-Geisselgarnele

Introduction to Rock shrimp

The rock shrimp is a deepwater relative of the pink, brown, and white Gulf shrimp species (Penaeus spp. ), but its domestic market appeal developed more slowly. The crustacean’s name derives from its very tough shell, which was a problem for processors until a machine was created to break the shrimp’s thick exoskeleton and devein it, thus increasing its availability. From Norfolk, Virginia, south across the Gulf of Mexico to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, rock shrimp are found. They are collected by trawling with strengthened nets that can resist damage from coral and stony bottoms. Domestically, the majority of the catch is landed on Florida’s east coast. Due to the difficulty of peeling rock shrimp, nearly all of the crop is sold as flesh. Shrimp are typically tiny; about 21 to 25 shrimp per pound is the maximum size.

Product profile for Rock shrimp

The flesh of raw rock shrimp is translucent or pure white, with thin reddish or purple lines running through it. Similar to lobster, the shrimp has a solid texture and a sweet, juicy flavor.

Cooking tips for Rock shrimp

The tiny size of the rock shrimp makes it ideal for nearly any dish that doesn’t call for entire shrimp for display. P&D meats and pieces are perfect for stir-fries and other fast meals like spaghetti and pizza. Split shell-on rock shrimp and broil for 2 minutes, or until flesh is opaque in the shell, 4 inches from the heat source. Alternatively, place into a pot of boiling salted water, stir, and cook for 35 seconds. Drain and rinse with cold water in a colander.

Nutrition facts for Rock shrimp

Calories: 96 Fat Calories: 8 Total Fat: 0.9 g Saturated Fat: 0.4 g Cholesterol: 122.8 mg Sodium: 333.3 mg Protein: 18.4 g Omega 3: N/A

Primary product forms for Rock shrimp

Fresh: P&D meats (most common), Whole, Headless (shell-on or split) Frozen: P&D meats (most common), Whole, Headless (shell-on or split), Blocks Value-added: Breaded meats

Global supply for Rock shrimp

Mexico, United States, Iran