Last Updated on December 19, 2022 by Lauren Beck
If you are in the mood for something crunchy and delicious, you should name something you eat that comes in a shell! There are many snacks and meals that come encased in a protective covering. Nuts such as walnuts, peanuts, almonds and cashews all come with their own shells. But the most common item that is eaten with a shell is Shellfish. This includes popular ocean delicacies like shrimp, lobster, crab and oysters. Not only are they delicious but they also offer a lot of nutritional benefits too!
7 Different Types of Shellfish To Cook
Here is a list of the different types of shellfish that you can cook
- Shrimp: This tasty little seafood is an excellent source of protein and it’s also low in fat and calories
- Lobster: This crustacean is prized for its sweet, delicate flavor and luxurious texture.
- Crab: A popular item in many cuisines, crab has a sweet and succulent flavor.
- Oysters: These molluscs are packed with minerals and vitamins, making them incredibly nutritious
- Clams: Clams come in different forms ranging from cherrystone to littleneck.
- Mussels: Mussels are known for their tender, slightly sweet flavor and are often served steamed
- Scallops: These round, succulent creatures have a delicate flavor and texture.
What are Shellfish?
Shellfish are a type of aquatic animal that have an outer shell for protection. They are divided into two groups, crustaceans and molluscs. Crustaceans include shrimp, crabs and lobsters while molluscs include oysters, clams and mussels. Shellfish are a nutritious addition to any meal as they are a great source of proteins, vitamins and minerals. So next time you are looking for something to eat that comes in a shell, don’t forget to name something from the delicious world of shellfish!
Where Can You Buy Shellfish?
Shellfish can be bought from seafood markets, grocery stores and some specialty stores. When buying fresh shellfish, make sure that it smells clean and does not have a fishy odor. Also look out for signs of spoilage such as discoloration or sliminess. Canned or frozen shellfish is also available in most supermarkets if you prefer cooking with Shellfish.
Are Shellfish Sustainable?
Shellfish is considered a sustainable form of seafood as they can be farmed or caught from the wild in a sustainable manner. Many shellfish species are also very resilient and have a high reproduction rate, meaning that their populations can quickly recover if overfished. So name something you eat that comes in a shell with peace of mind!
Health Benefits of Shellfish
Here are some of the health benefits associated with eating shellfish
- They are a great source of zinc, an essential mineral for immune system function and development
- Shellfish contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce inflammation
- They are low in fat and calories yet still provide a good dose of protein.
- Eating shellfish can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease
- Shellfish also contain essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, magnesium, phosphorus and B-vitamins.
Are Shellfish High in Heavy Metals?
Shellfish are known to accumulate heavy metals due to the fact that they live in water bodies affected by pollution. This means that shellfish can potentially contain high levels of mercury, lead and other toxic substances [1]. It is important to buy your shellfish from a reputable source and to cook them properly in order to reduce the risk of contamination.
Are Shellfish Contaminated?
Shellfish may be contaminated with bacteria or viruses, which can cause illness if eaten raw or undercooked. The best way to avoid contamination is to buy your shellfish from a well-regulated source and cook them thoroughly before eating. Be sure to read the label carefully and always check with your local health department for advisories about any potential risks with shellfish in your area.
What Are The Most Common Methods Of Cooking Seafood Shellfish?
Here are some of the most common methods of cooking shellfish
- Steaming: This is one of the healthiest and quickest methods for cooking shellfish
- Boiling: Boiling is a good way to bring out the flavor in mollusks like clams, mussels and oysters
- Grilling: Grilling is a great way to add smoky flavor to shrimp, scallops and squid
- Frying: Frying is a classic method for cooking crustaceans like crab and lobster.
- Baking: Baking is an excellent way to cook shellfish such as oysters, mussels and scallops
Conclusion
Shellfish is a delicious and nutritious source of protein that comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. From mollusks to crustaceans, name something you eat that comes in a shell for your next meal and enjoy the many health benefits associated with eating shellfish. Make sure to buy from reputable sources and cook them properly to reduce the risk of contamination and enjoy the wonderful flavors of shellfish.
Reference:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7700650/
- What Milk Lasts the Longest Once Opened? - October 15, 2023
- Does Silk Milk Need to Be Refrigerated? - October 7, 2023
- Why Do People Like Well Done Steak? - September 30, 2023