Night Before (recommended method): Suspend a colander over a large bowl. Remove the frozen shrimp from their packaging and place it into the colander. Cover the colander with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the shrimp thaw for 8-12 hours.

45 Minute Thaw (second-best method): Remove the frozen shrimp from their packaging and transfer it to a large resealable storage bag. Press all the air out before sealing the bag. Fill a large bowl with cold water and place the sealed bag of shrimp into it. Use a plate or small heavy object to weigh the bag down and keep the shrimp submerged. Let it thaw for 40-50 minutes.

15-20 Minute Thaw (emergency back-up method): Fill a large bowl with cold water. Remove the frozen shrimp from their packaging and transfer the shrimp to the bowl. Let it thaw for 15-20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to break up clumps.