Whoa, I’ve never heard of that before!

At a family dinner, my mother-in-law’s shrimp dish, cooked with shells on and veins intact, sparked a dilemma. I chose not to eat it or let my kids partake, questioning if deveining shrimp is essential. Deveining removes the digestive tract, which may contain grit, affecting texture and taste, though it’s safe to eat. Some cultures cook shrimp with veins for flavor, while others devein for cleanliness. Personal preferences vary—some dislike the

vein’s appearance, others don’t mind. Deveining at home is simple: rinse shrimp, cut along the back, remove the vein, and rinse again. Discussing preferences respectfully with family, especially about traditional cooking, fosters understanding. Ultimately, deveining is a personal choice influenced by culture, health, and taste. Balancing these ensures enjoyable meals.