Texas Gulf Shrimp Season & Why Supporting Local Shrimp Matters
October 2, 2025 – As cooler weather settles in, Texas shrimpers are hauling in their fall catch, bringing fresh Gulf shrimp to markets and restaurants across the state. The fall season, which typically runs through November, is one of the busiest times for the industry, with boats returning to docks along the coast loaded with white and brown shrimp. For many coastal communities, the season represents not only tradition but also a vital economic boost.
Seafood experts, however, urge consumers to be mindful about where their shrimp comes from. With imports making up a large share of shrimp sold nationwide, it can be easy to mistake foreign, farmed product for wild Texas shrimp. Shoppers looking for Gulf-caught shrimp should check packaging labels and ask vendors directly whether their shrimp is “Product of USA” and specifically from the Texas Gulf. Many local fish markets and grocery stores highlight the origin, but when in doubt, customers are encouraged to ask.
Food safety also remains important. Shrimp should be kept cold on ice or refrigerated, and consumers are advised to cook it until it turns pink and opaque. By choosing verified Texas shrimp, buyers not only support local fishermen but also ensure they’re enjoying a safe, high-quality product this season.
Why Treat Shrimp with Baking Soda Before Cooking (and a Simple Recipe)
A quick trick many chefs use to keep shrimp tender and juicy is treating them with a light baking soda solution before cooking. Baking soda slightly raises the pH on the shrimp’s surface, which helps prevent the proteins from contracting too quickly when exposed to heat. The result: plumper, crisp-tender shrimp with a subtle “snap” instead of rubbery chewiness.
How to Do It:
For every pound of raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp, toss with ½ teaspoon of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of salt. Mix well to coat evenly, then refrigerate for 15–20 minutes. After resting, rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step removes excess baking soda, so the shrimp don’t take on an off flavor.
Simple Garlic Shrimp Recipe:
- Prepare shrimp as described above.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add shrimp in a single layer, cooking 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Finish with lemon juice, chopped parsley, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Serve over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread for an easy, flavorful dish.
