Standing in the frozen food aisle, choosing shrimp can quickly become a headache. Between the different species, mysterious sizes, and various preparations, it's easy to feel lost. Should you go for Black Tiger or Vannamei shrimp? What does a "21/25" count mean? And is it better to buy them whole or already peeled?
This guide is here to decode the jargon and give you clear answers. Our mission at Joybuy? To help you see things more clearly so you can buy the frozen shrimp that are perfectly suited to your tastes and recipes, with complete confidence.
Before we get to our top picks, let's review the essential criteria for making the right choice in the frozen food section.
The size, indicated by two numbers (e.g., 16/20, 41/50), refers to the number of shrimp per pound (about 450g). It's the most reliable indicator of their actual size.
The two star varieties on the market each have their own character.
The way the shrimp is presented affects both its flavour and the time you'll spend in the kitchen.
Enough theory, let's get practical! Here are three products we've selected for their quality, convenience, and ability to meet specific needs.
These frozen tiger shrimp are offered whole (HOSO) for maximum flavour. Their large 16/20 size makes them premium pieces for dishes where the shrimp is the star. The Semi IQF (Individually Quick Frozen) method allows you to take only the amount you need without thawing the whole block.
For purists and gourmets looking for a raw product to extract its full essence. Ideal for those who love to make their own stocks and want to impress their guests.
These Vannamei shrimp are the very definition of convenience. Fully peeled and deveined (P&D), they can be added directly to your recipes with no prep required. Their 41/50 size is perfect for dishes where they are mixed with other ingredients.
For families and anyone short on time who doesn't want to sacrifice quality. This is the smart product to always have in the freezer for an impromptu meal.
This product is the perfect balance of flavour and ease. These tiger shrimp are headless and their shells are pre-split down the back (Easy Peel), making post-cooking peeling child's play. The 21/25 size offers a satisfying bite.
For those who want the taste of a shell-on shrimp without the struggle of peeling. Ideal for appetizer platters, grilling with friends, or garlic and parsley stir-fries.
Our selection highlights three excellent products for well-defined uses. You might find your perfect match in a different size, another preparation, or a different variety. Feel free to explore our full range of shrimp to find the product that will satisfy all your culinary desires.
The best method is slow thawing: place the shrimp in a colander over a dish and leave them in the refrigerator for several hours (or even overnight). If you're in a hurry, run them under a stream of cold water until they soften. Above all, avoid hot water or the microwave, which can pre-cook the meat. Golden rule: never refreeze a thawed product.
Raw shrimp (usually grey) give you full control over the cooking, ensuring a tender and juicy texture. Pre-cooked shrimp (pink) are perfect for quick use in cold dishes (salads, cocktails...). Be careful not to overcook them if you reheat them, as they can become rubbery.
Absolutely. The delivery of shrimp and other frozen goods is our specialty. At Joybuy, we use high-performance insulated packaging and temperature-controlled transport to ensure the cold chain is fully maintained from our warehouse to your door. Your products are delivered to you in optimal frozen condition, without any compromise on quality.