Biggest oops? Adding frozen shrimp to cold water and then boiling. That’s a one-way ticket to mush city. Always use boiling water—it’s non-negotiable.
Another classic: boiling them for way too long because you’re distracted scrolling your phone. I’ve done it. You’ve done it. We’re all guilty. Set a timer, people.
Oh, and don’t overcrowd the pot. If you dump a whole bag into a tiny saucepan, they’ll steam instead of boil. No one wants steamed shrimp that tastes like sad, wet socks.