Raoping Mantis Shrimp

Raoping Mantis Shrimp

　　The scientific name of the mantis shrimp is "squilla," also known as the guitar shrimp or "pee shrimp." It has shrimp-like eyes and crab-like legs, resembling a centipede with two pairs of antennae—the first pair being longer and sickle-shaped. Its body is bluish-gray, and the tail segment is red. The larger ones can grow up to a foot long, while the smaller ones are just two or three inches. Mantis shrimp are delicious and inexpensive, and can be prepared by deep-frying, steaming, or boiling—each method offering a unique flavor. But there is one way of eating them that terrifies people from inland areas and deters them from trying it, yet people in Raoping, regardless of age or gender, enjoy it immensely. That is to take the freshly caught live mantis shrimp from the sea, salt-cure them for a day or two, and eat them right away. The locals like to pair this salted mantis shrimp with sweet potato congee, creating an incredibly satisfying and perfectly balanced flavor. When served with alcohol, it becomes a true delicacy—a beloved seafood among coastal communities. It has now also become a popular dish on the menus of hotels and restaurants in coastal cities.

　　Raoping’s shallow coastal waters are rich in resources, and mantis shrimp are abundant. They live on sandy seabeds and prefer to dwell in muddy shallows or crevices in reefs. They can be fished all year round, but spring is the peak season. During this time, the shrimp are plump, tender, and delicious, with a yolk-like substance in their flesh known as "red-heart mantis shrimp"—considered the tastiest.

　　Mantis shrimp are a nutritious seafood delicacy with juicy, tender meat. Their flesh contains a high amount of moisture, boasts a sweet, smooth, light, and soft taste, along with a uniquely enticing umami flavor. Plump mantis shrimp have heads full of rich roe, and their meat is extremely tender and delicious, though they are somewhat shell-heavy. They are high in protein (up to 20%), contain 0.7% fat, as well as essential nutrients such as vitamins, chlorogenic acid, inosinic acid, and alanine. Mantis shrimp are warm in nature and sweet in flavor. They are believed to nourish kidney yang, promote blood circulation, stimulate saliva production, aid lactation, and help detoxify the body.