To leave the tail on or to take it off, that is the dilemma when it comes to shrimp. The topic was vigorously discussed on Thursday, February 20, as Al Roker made an appearance on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert to promote his latest cookbook.
“Check this out,” exclaimed Colbert as he flipped through the pages of Al Roker’s Recipes to Live By. “Shrimp tikka masala. A delectable recipe. Look at those shrimp. They still have their tails,” a bewildered Colbert noted. “What’s the deal, Al Roker? Am I supposed to roll up my sleeves, don a poncho, and de-tail the shrimp myself? Why would you do this? They’re like toenail clippings, Al!”
Despite his animated objection, Colbert didn’t stop there. “Would you leave a hoof on a burger? Why would you do that? Such a beautiful book ruined.”
The argument spilled over to the following morning, Friday, February 21, as Roker defended his culinary decision on the cozy couch of the Today show. “You see, there’s a bit more flavor in the tails,” Roker explained to his morning show colleagues, who seemed somewhat dubious. “Is it such a big deal? Just take your fork, chop it off, and voilà! You can enjoy it.”
The dispute extended to the comment section of the Today food Instagram account, with Roker’s publisher, the Hachette Book Group, backing their author by stating, “All that extra flavor is in the tail!”
However, not everyone was in agreement. One commenter argued, “Remove it. There’s no reason to keep the tail if the shrimp is being incorporated into a dish. I only prefer the tail on fried shrimp if I intend to pick it up or dip it in sauce.”
Another commenter found humor in the controversy and playfully requested a souvenir to commemorate the clash. “🙋🏻♀️ I would love a shirt that reads ‘What the heck Al Roker’, pretty please 💕.”
Yet another commenter sided with Roker, but with a twist. “No, I’m on Al Roker’s side. Just use a fork and chop it off. Or like us Texans, we use our hands and fingers!! That is, if you’re at home.”
Next: Al Roker Unveils His Unorthodox Routine for His Daily ‘Today’ Show Appearances
