By our Joybuy product expertLast updated:?July 5, 2026
Navigating the frozen seafood aisle can be overwhelming. Faced with a multitude of frozen shrimp options, it's easy to feel lost:?which species should you choose? What does the size on the packaging mean? Should you opt for whole or already peeled shrimp?
Don't worry, this guide is here to help you make sense of it all. Our goal:?to give you all the keys to buying the perfect shrimp online for your recipes, whether it's for a last-minute dinner, a barbecue with friends, or a more sophisticated dish.
Before we get to our top picks, let's review the key factors for making a smart purchase.
The size, often indicated by two numbers (e.g., 41/50 or 6/8), corresponds to the number of shrimp per pound (about 450?g). The rule is simple:?the lower the numbers, the larger the frozen shrimp.
As for species, two are particularly common:?
The way shrimp are prepared before freezing makes all the difference when it's time to cook.
The 1kg shrimp bag is a smart, cost-effective option for families or those who regularly cook with seafood. Good to know:?high-quality shrimp are often individually quick-frozen (IQF). This allows you to take out just the amount you need without having to thaw the whole bag.
Let's get to it! Here are our selections for every taste and occasion.
Why it stands out:? These Vannamei shrimp are the epitome of convenience. Fully prepared (peeled and deveined), they are ready to hit the pan as soon as they're thawed.
Advantages:?
Who is it for? For families and busy cooks looking for a high-quality, quick, and easy ingredient for their everyday dishes.
Why it stands out:? With their extra-large 6/8 size, these whole frozen prawns are designed to impress. The head and shell guarantee an intense seafood flavour during cooking.
Advantages:?
Who is it for? For seafood lovers who want to prepare festive dishes, seafood platters, or flavourful grilled items. Also suitable for food service professionals.
Why it stands out:? The ideal compromise between flavour and simplicity. You get the intense taste of Black Tiger shrimp cooked in their shells, with the convenience of the "Easy Peel" dorsal slit for effortless peeling.
Advantages:?
Who is it for? For those who love the authentic taste of shell-on grilled shrimp but appreciate a little help to make preparation and eating easier.
Our selection is just a starting point. For other sizes, preparations, or species, feel free to explore our full catalogue.
? Discover our full range of frozen shrimp on Joybuy.fr
1. Should you thaw frozen shrimp before cooking? Yes, it's essential for even cooking. The gentlest method:?place them in a colander over a bowl in the refrigerator for several hours. For a quick thaw, run them under a stream of cold water. Above all, avoid hot water or the microwave, which can partially and unevenly cook the flesh.
2. What's the difference between a shrimp and a prawn? In common culinary terms, "prawn" often refers to larger species of shrimp, like Black Tiger prawns (Penaeus monodon). From a cooking perspective, "prawn" suggests a meatier, more substantial piece. Biologically, the distinction is more complex, but for shopping purposes, just remember that "prawn" is often used synonymously with large shrimp.
3. How can you tell if frozen shrimp are still good? First, check the Best Before date on the packaging. Visually, high-quality shrimp should have a uniform colour. A large amount of ice crystals or dry, white spots (freezer burn) are bad signs and will affect the texture. After thawing, the smell should be fresh and oceanic, with no hint of ammonia.