Steamed Shrimp and BBQ Bacon Wrapped Shrimp

Both are very yummy.  Will need two people for this recipe unless you are superwoman.  One manning the grill and one the steamer/kitchen.  

This is the second time doing these recipes.  The first time we did two pounds jumbo shrimp and did one pound for each recipe.  This time I had only bought a pound of jumbo shrimp and split the two recipes.  Divide up the shrimp.

Steamed Shrimp:

Keep the shell on.  You will need one 12 or 16oz beer to put in the bottom of the steamer.  If you are doing a half of a pound a 12 oz will be just fine.  I used Yuengling Lager.  Place shrimp in steamer basket and heavily coat with old bay seasoning.  Stir to turn shrimp and coat some more. Now, I adore old bay seasoning.  My philosophy for this recipe is just when you think you put enough on, add more.  The shrimp will steam for about 6-10 minutes or until pink.

BBQ Bacon Wrapped Shrimp:

Shell and devein shrimp.  Using a paring knife is the easiest way to devein the shrimp in my opinion.  Place on a plate and coat with a bbq rub.  You will want to semi-cook the bacon before wrapping the shrimp so it finishes at the same time as the shrimp.  You only need half of a piece of bacon to wrap one shrimp.  So count your shrimp and divide the number of pieces of bacon you will need.  Place the bacon on a plate and microwave for a minute and thirty seconds.  Cut in half and let cool a bit.  Wrap a half of a piece of bacon around each shrimp and secure with a toothpick.  Coat with more bbq rub.  Walk the plate out to your lovely helper so they can start grilling!  Place shrimp on grill and baste with your favorite bbq sauce.  Turn shrimp and baste.  Keep turning and basting til shrimp are pink.  May take about 6-10 minutes depending on grill.  

Remember: Rubbery shrimp is awful and overcooking is easy.  I would rather take one off prematurely and slightly break it open to check it then to overcook.  

We served this awesome dish with a side salad and home brewed iced tea.