Frozen shrimp are the secret weapon of any well-stocked freezer. They're convenient, quick to prepare, and perfect for elevating even the simplest of dishes. But when you're standing in front of the freezer aisle, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. Size, species, raw, cooked… how do you navigate it all?
This guide is here to help you decode the labels and choose the ideal frozen shrimp for any occasion, from a last-minute pasta dish to a festive dinner.
Buying Guide?: How to Choose the Best Frozen Shrimp
To buy shrimp online with confidence, just keep a few criteria in mind. Here are the key points to check.
1. Raw or Cooked?: It's All About the Recipe
The choice between raw or pre-cooked shrimp depends primarily on the recipe you have in mind.
- Raw shrimp?: Recognisable by their grey colour, raw shrimp are the most versatile. They are perfect for searing in a pan, grilling on the barbecue, or adding to saucy dishes like curries and paellas. As they cook, they soak up flavours and maintain a firm, juicy texture.
- Cooked, peeled shrimp?: Already pink, these shrimp are the ultimate time-saving solution. Once thawed, they can be added directly to a salad, sandwich, pasta, or appetiser. They are ideal for cold preparations or for adding at the very end of cooking just to be warmed through.
2. The Count?: Decoding Shrimp Sizes
The count, indicated by numbers like "?16/20?" or "?100/200?", refers to the number of shrimp per pound (about 450?g). The rule is simple?: the smaller the number, the larger the large frozen shrimp are.
- Large counts (e.g.,?13/15, 16/20)?: Perfect for being the star of the plate, on skewers, grilled, or in a garlic shrimp dish.
- Small counts (e.g.,?100/200)?: Ideal for blending into salads, sauces, stuffings, or verrines, where their small size ensures even distribution.
3. Species and Presentation?: Black Tiger, Breaded, etc.
The species and presentation of the shrimp determine its flavour and culinary use.
- Black Tiger shrimp?:Black Tiger shrimp (Penaeus monodon) are highly prized for their firm texture and delicate flavour. Often large in size, they are exceptional when simply grilled.
- Whole shrimp (HOSO - Head-On, Shell-On)?: Keeping the head and shell on during cooking is the secret to maximum flavour. The head coral, in particular, is a treasure that enhances broths and sauces.
- Peeled shrimp (P&D - Peeled & Deveined)?: To make your life easier, these shrimp are ready to cook, without the hassle of peeling.
- Breaded shrimp?: The quick and delicious option for an appetiser or a fun meal. A quick trip to the fryer or oven is all it takes for a perfectly crispy result.
Recommended Frozen Shrimp Picks
To help you make your choice, here are a few products we've selected for their quality and versatility.
Perfit Shrimps Cooked and Peeled PUD 100/200
- What sets them apart?: Ultimate convenience.
- Key features?:
- Ready to use?: No cooking, no peeling. Just thaw and they're ready to go?!
- Versatile?: Their small size (100/200 count) is perfect for salads, bowls, sushi, or pasta dishes.
- Light?: Naturally high in protein and low in calories.
- Who are they for?? For busy families, quick lunches, and impromptu appetisers.
Tiger Black Tiger Whole Shrimp HOSO 16/20
- What sets them apart?: The gourmet's choice for maximum flavour.
- Key features?:
- Intense flavour?: The shell and head protect the meat during cooking and release incredible juices.
- Large count (16/20)?: Their impressive size ensures a flawless presentation on the plate.
- Semi-IQF freezing?: Allows you to take out only the amount you need, preventing waste.
- Who are they for?? For cooking enthusiasts who make their own stocks, barbecue masters, and anyone looking to make a statement with a spectacular seafood dish.
Asian Choice Peeled Black Tiger Shrimp P&D 13/15
- What sets them apart?: The best of both worlds?: the quality of a large, raw shrimp with the convenience of being ready to cook.
- Key features?:
- Extra-large count (13/15)?: These large frozen shrimp are plump and meaty, perfect for generous dishes.
- Ready to cook?: Already peeled and deveined (P&D), they save you from the least fun part of the prep.
- Versatility?: Perfect for stir-fries, curries, grilling, or gourmet pasta dishes.
- Who are they for?? For those who want an exceptional product for refined dishes, without the chore of peeling.
ASIAN CHOICE Breaded Torpedo Shrimp
- What sets them apart?: The delicious, crispy solution for a successful appetiser, ready in minutes.
- Key features?:
- Ultra-fast?: Straight into the fryer or oven, no thawing required.
- Addictive texture?: The tempura-style breading provides an unbeatable crunch.
- Perfect for appetisers?: Ideal for dipping in a sweet and sour or spicy mayo sauce.
- Who are they for?? For appetiser platters, tapas nights, or a quick and comforting crowd-pleasing meal.
Want to Explore Other Flavours??
Our selection is just a taste of what the world of seafood has to offer. Fish, shellfish, crustaceans… feel free to browse our full department for inspiration. With frozen food delivery, you can stock up on quality ingredients that are always within reach.
Discover all our seafood products
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do you properly thaw frozen shrimp??
The best method is slow thawing?: place the shrimp in a colander over a dish and leave them in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker method, put them in a sealed freezer bag and submerge it in a large bowl of cold water for 15 to 30 minutes. However, avoid the microwave, as it can pre-cook the shrimp unevenly.
What does the count (e.g.,?16/20) on a package of shrimp mean??
The count indicates the number of shrimp per pound (which is 454?g). For example, a "16/20" count means you will find between 16 and 20 shrimp in one pound of the product. Just remember that the smaller these numbers are, the larger the shrimp.
Can you refreeze thawed shrimp??
No, it's a golden rule?: never refreeze a thawed seafood product. This practice not only ruins the texture and flavour but also poses health risks. Be sure to thaw only the amount you need.
