Answer
May 28, 2026 - 12:18 PM
Because 16/20 shrimp are "Jumbo" sized, they take slightly longer to cook than smaller salad shrimp, but they still follow the golden rule of seafood: minutes, not half-hours. For 16/20 shrimp, your total cook time will generally be 3 to 5 minutes, depending on the heat source.
Cooking by Method
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Sautéing (Pan-Sear): 2 minutes per side over medium-high heat. Look for the "C" shape—if they tightly curl into an "O," they are overdone.
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Boiling (The Soak): Drop them into boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes. For the best flavor, turn off the heat and let them "soak" in the seasoned water for another 5–10 minutes; they will finish cooking gently without getting tough.
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Grilling: 2 to 3 minutes per side. Since 16/20s are thick, they are perfect for skewers as they won't dry out as fast as smaller counts.
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Oven Roasting: 6 to 8 minutes at 200°C (400°F).
The Visual Cues
Don't just rely on the clock; watch the shrimp for these three signs:
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Color: They should change from translucent grey to an opaque white with pink and red highlights.
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Texture: The meat should feel firm to the touch, not mushy or rubbery.
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Shape: A perfectly cooked shrimp forms a "C" shape. An overcooked shrimp curls into a tight "O."
