Shanwei Mantis Shrimp

Shanwei Mantis Shrimp

　　A must-try dish when visiting Shanwei City is mantis shrimp. Scientifically known as squilla or also called guitar shrimp, it has shrimp-like eyes and crab-like legs, resembles a centipede, has two pairs of antennae — the first pair being longer and sickle-shaped — and features a bluish-gray body with a reddish tail segment. Spring is the peak season for mantis shrimp, when they are plump, tender, and their meat contains a yolk-like core, known as “red-heart mantis shrimp,” which is especially delicious. Mantis shrimp are believed to have benefits such as boosting vitality, nourishing kidneys, promoting blood circulation, and stimulating saliva production. There’s a unique way locals in Shanwei eat them, summarized as “massage first, then peel, using both hands together.” After picking up the shrimp, first knead it gently all over with your fingers, then use both hands to hold the sides and peel off the hard shell before eating. Shanwei people also have a distinctive method of eating mantis shrimp by salting live ones and curing them for a day or two. They particularly enjoy eating these salted mantis shrimp with sweet potato congee.