Buying Shrimp in 2026: A Guide to Choosing the Right Ones Online

Hello, I'm your Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer. Finding the right shrimp online can be a challenge. The selection is vast: from ready-to-cook shrimp to raw king prawns for special occasions. This guide is designed to help you understand the various options and make an informed decision that perfectly matches your cooking style. We'll look at the key features to consider when buying frozen shrimp.

What to Look for When Buying Shrimp

Choosing the right product depends on your individual needs. Whether it's for a quick weeknight dinner or an elaborate weekend meal, the following points will help guide you.

Raw or Cooked: A Matter of Preparation

The first decision to make is about the state of the shrimp: raw shrimp or cooked shrimp.

• Cooked Shrimp: These are already cooked, and often peeled and deveined. They are the ideal choice for quick meals, as they only need to be reheated or can be used cold. Perfect for salads, cocktails, or as a quick addition to pasta sauces. The main advantage is the minimal prep time.
• Raw Shrimp: They offer maximum control over the cooking process and seasoning. Raw shrimp develop a more intense flavour when pan-fried, grilled, or boiled. They are the preferred choice for dishes where the shrimp is the star, such as grilled prawns or in curries.

Sizing and Varieties: From Vannamei to Black Tiger

Shrimp size is usually indicated as the number of pieces per pound (lb) or kilogram (kg). A count like 16/20 means that 16 to 20 shrimp make up one pound. The smaller the numbers, the larger the individual shrimp.

There are also different varieties that vary in taste and texture:

• Vannamei Shrimp: This is one of the most common varieties. They have a mild, slightly sweet flavour and a firm texture, making them very versatile.
• Black Tiger Prawns: These are often larger and known for their firm, crisp texture and a more pronounced flavour. They are excellent for grilling or pan-frying as they hold their shape well at high temperatures. If you're specifically looking to buy king prawns, Black Tiger is often a great option.

Shell-On or Shell-Off: Flavour vs. Convenience

• Shell-on: The shell protects the meat from drying out during cooking and imparts extra flavour. Head-on, shell-on shrimp are particularly flavourful and are great for making stocks or sauces.
• Peeled: Peeled shrimp are convenient and ready to use. If they are also marked as "deveined," the dark intestinal tract on the back has been removed, further reducing preparation time.

Our Top Shrimp Picks for 2026

Based on these criteria, we have curated a selection of products that cater to different needs. You can order shrimp online right here.

1. Mooijer-Volendam Vannamei Shrimp, Cooked and Peeled

What makes this product stand out These Vannamei shrimp from Mooijer-Volendam are the definition of convenience. They are already cooked, peeled, and deveined, which eliminates any prep work. Once thawed, they are ready to use. The size 41/50 indicates a medium shrimp size that works well in a variety of dishes.

Benefits at a glance

• Maximum time savings: Ready to use in cold and hot dishes.
• Versatile: Ideal for salads, pasta, wraps, or as a garnish.
• Mild flavour: The Vannamei shrimp has a pleasantly mild and sweet taste that complements many dishes.

Who is it for? This product is perfect for anyone who values quick and hassle-free solutions for everyday cooking without compromising on seafood quality.

2. BML Food Group Ben's Black Tiger Prawns 6/8, Head-On Shell-On

What makes this product stand out These Black Tiger prawns, with a size of 6/8, are exceptionally large and meaty. They come with the head and shell on, ensuring a maximum flavour experience. The shell protects the delicate meat while grilling or frying, keeping it juicy, while the head provides extra aroma for sauces.

Benefits at a glance

• Intense flavour: Cooking them in the shell provides a full, rich aroma.
• Firm texture: Black Tiger prawns are known for their crisp and firm consistency.
• Impressive presentation: Their impressive size makes them the star of any barbecue or gourmet dish.

Who is it for? Ideal for home cooks and barbecue enthusiasts who appreciate the authentic taste of king prawns and are willing to invest a little more prep time for an outstanding result.

3. Ben's Raw Peeled Vannamei, Size 16/20

What makes this product stand out This product offers a great compromise between convenience and culinary freedom. The raw shrimp are already peeled, so the tedious task of shelling is eliminated. With a size of 16/20, these are large specimens that are easy to work with. Since they are raw, you have full control over the cooking time and seasoning.

Benefits at a glance

• Flexible preparation: Perfect for pan-frying, steaming, boiling, or stir-frying.
• Convenient prep: Already peeled and ready to cook.
• Great size: The 16/20 size ensures a meaty bite and looks great in any dish.

Who is it for? For anyone who loves to cook from scratch and prefers the taste of freshly prepared shrimp but wants to skip the hassle of peeling. A versatile staple for the creative kitchen.

Didn't Find What You're Looking For? Explore More Options

Our selection covers some of the most popular use cases. However, if you are looking for a different size, a specific variety, or another preparation style, you can find more products in our broader category.

Explore our full range of shrimp and seafood

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does the size count on shrimp mean (e.g., 16/20)?

The numbers indicate approximately how many shrimp are in one pound (approx. 453 g). For a "16/20" count, it means that between 16 and 20 shrimp of that size make up one pound. Therefore: the smaller the numbers, the larger the individual shrimp.

How do I properly thaw frozen shrimp?

The best method is to let the shrimp thaw overnight in a bowl in the refrigerator. If you're in a hurry, you can place the sealed bag of shrimp in a bowl of cold water. Change the water every 20-30 minutes. Avoid thawing in the microwave or at room temperature, as this can affect the texture and encourage bacterial growth.

Can you eat the shrimp shell?

Shrimp shells are edible, especially if they are thin and fried or sautéed until crisp. This is common in many cuisines, particularly in Asia and Spain. However, most people prefer to remove the shell before eating, as it can be quite tough. It does, however, serve as an excellent flavour enhancer during the cooking process.