Messy Shrimp Boil 2 to 3 pounds shrimp in shell 1/3 cup baking soda Fill a Dutch oven with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add baking soda to the water. Add shrimp. When the water returns to a boil and the shrimp rise to the surface with a bright reddish color to their edges, remove from water. Rinse shrimp under cold water; drain. Pile shrimp into a large bowl. Serve with side dishes of garlic butter, steamed rice, a salad, and a crusty loaf of French bread.