You may have had to decide between prawns and shrimp. Let’s face it: most of us do not know the difference between these two.
I thought, for example, that “prawn” is a British regional name for what Americans call shrimp. It turns out that there’s a difference between a prawn and a shrimp, and it’s not just their size. This guide will show you how to tell the difference between prawns and shrimps.
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What is the difference between shrimp and prawns?
Although they look very similar, shrimp and prawns are two different species. Prawns are usually larger than shrimp.
Although their names can be used interchangeably in some cases, true shrimps are slightly sweeter than prawns. Many recipes that call shrimp can be used with prawns, and vice-versa. Make sure to buy the right size of shrimp or prawns for your recipe.
What are Shrimp?
Shrimp can be found in cold or warm water. Shrimp from freezing water will be smaller. Due to their flexible shell, shrimp are more bendy than prawns.
More species of shrimp are found in saltwater than in freshwater. In grocery stores and seafood markets, saltwater shrimp are more commonly sold.
Shrimp Recipes
- Easy Shrimp Ceviche
- Roasted Shrimp
- Shrimp and Grits
What are Prawns?
You can get prawns from either saltwater or freshwater, but the majority of them you will find in stores are freshwater prawns. Prawns are larger and plumper, like langoustines. Prawns have longer legs and larger pincers than shrimp. Their meat is sweeter and usually more succulent when cooked.
Recipes for Prawns
- Ginataan Na Sugpo
- Persian Lime Poached Seafood Stew
- Curry Laksa
How to buy and cook shrimp and prawns
Labelling can be confusing when it comes to purchasing and cooking shrimp or Prawns. Labelling can be confusing when it comes to buying and cooking shrimp or prawns.
Although prawns are sweeter, you can substitute prawns in most recipes. You should buy shrimp or prawns of the right size for your recipe.
