Both shrimp and scallops are delicious and popular seafood options. However, one key difference between the two is their cook times. So what takes longer to cook – shrimp or scallops?
The Basics of Cooking Shrimp and Scallops
Before diving into cook times, it’s helpful to understand some basics about cooking shrimp and scallops.
Shrimp
Shrimp are decapod crustaceans that are found in oceans all over the world. There are many different species of shrimp, but most shrimp that are consumed are in the Infraorder Caridea. Shrimp can range in size from as small as 1 inch to as large as 13 inches. However, medium sized shrimp in the range of 4-8 inches are most common.
Shrimp are delicate and need to be cooked quickly and carefully to avoid overcooking. The main methods used for cooking shrimp include boiling, grilling, sauteing, baking, and broiling. No matter the cooking method, shrimp cook quickly and only need 2-5 minutes on each side depending on size.
Scallops
Scallops are bivalve mollusks that are also found in oceans worldwide. There are many scallop species, but the most common scallops used for food are the Sea Scallop and the Bay Scallop. Sea Scallops are larger, at about 1.5 to 2 inches across, while Bay Scallops are smaller at about .5 to 1.5 inches across.
Scallops are firmer than shrimp, but still delicate. They can be prepared in similar ways as shrimp including sauteing, broiling, baking, and grilling. Scallops require slightly longer cook times than shrimp, but still only need 2-4 minutes per side depending on size and thickness.
Detailed Cook Time Comparison
Now that we’ve covered some background on shrimp and scallops, let’s analyze their cook times in more detail.
Grilling
One popular cooking method for both shrimp and scallops is grilling. When grilled, shrimp cook very quickly:
- Small shrimp (4 per ounce) – 1-2 minutes per side
- Medium shrimp (15 per pound) – 2-3 minutes per side
- Jumbo shrimp (10 per pound) – 3-4 minutes per side
Scallops take a little longer:
- Small bay scallops – 2-3 minutes per side
- Sea scallops – 4-5 minutes per side
So grilling time is about 1-2 minutes quicker for shrimp.
Broiling
Another method is broiling in the oven. Cook times are similar:
- Shrimp – 2-3 minutes per side
- Scallops – 3-4 minutes per side
Shrimp cook about 1 minute faster per side under the broiler.
Baking
Baking in the oven has comparable cook times as well:
- Shrimp – 6-10 minutes
- Scallops – 10-15 minutes
Shrimp bake 4-5 minutes quicker than scallops.
Sauteeing
Lastly, sauteeing in a pan on the stove top is a fast and easy way to cook both.
- Shrimp – 2-3 minutes
- Scallops – 3-4 minutes
The difference is about 1 minute, with shrimp cooking faster.
Cook Time Comparison Table
Here is a table summarizing the average cook times:
| Cooking Method | Shrimp Time | Scallop Time |
|---|---|---|
| Grilling | 2-4 minutes per side | 3-5 minutes per side |
| Broiling | 2-3 minutes per side | 3-4 minutes per side |
| Baking | 6-10 minutes | 10-15 minutes |
| Sauteeing | 2-3 minutes | 3-4 minutes |
Factors That Impact Cook Time
While shrimp generally cook faster than scallops, there are some factors that can impact the cook times for both:
Size
The size of the shrimp or scallops will affect cook time. Larger seafood will take longer to cook through. Jumbo shrimp and thick sea scallops will need a minute or two longer than petite shrimp and small bay scallops.
Thickness
For scallops in particular, thickness is key. Thicker scallop muscles will take several minutes longer to cook than very thin scallops.
Cooking Temperature
The temperature at which the shrimp or scallops are cooked will impact total cook time. Cooking at a higher broil or grill temperature will decrease cook time. Conversely, baking at a lower oven temperature will lengthen the time needed.
Cooking Method
As shown in the table, the method chosen also affects cook time. Grilling, broiling, and sauteeing are faster methods, while baking takes more time.
Preparation
How the shrimp or scallops are handled and prepared prior to cooking can also play a role. Thawing, peeling, deveining, and drying the seafood properly will help shorten cook times.
Tips for Cooking Shrimp and Scallops
To achieve perfect shrimp and scallops, keep these tips in mind:
- Thaw frozen shrimp and scallops overnight in the fridge before cooking.
- Pat dry seafood very well before cooking to cut down on excess moisture.
- Season shrimp and scallops lightly with salt, pepper, oils, herbs or spices.
- Use a cooking thermometer – shrimp are done at 145°F and scallops at 140°F.
- Don’t overcook – shrimp and scallops go from tender and juicy to rubbery and chewy quickly.
- Let rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking before serving.
Conclusion
So in summary, shrimp generally have a shorter cook time than scallops. The difference is about 1-2 minutes depending on the size of the seafood and cooking method used. However, both are delicate seafood that should be cooked quickly and carefully to prevent overcooking. Follow proper techniques like drying well, seasoning minimally, and using a cooking thermometer for perfect results.