Buying Shrimp Online: Recommendations and Tips

The online selection of shrimp can be overwhelming. From raw to cooked, shell-on to shell-off, and in a wide range of sizes—the choices are vast. This guide is designed to help you find the perfect shrimp for your culinary needs. We'll outline objective criteria and present a curated selection of products to make your decision easier when you plan on ordering shrimp online.

What to Look for When Buying Shrimp?

The right choice depends heavily on your planned dish and desired preparation time. Here are three key points to guide you.

1. Preparation: Raw or Cooked?

The first decision is about the state of the shrimp. Both options have specific uses.

• Raw Shrimp: This is the top choice for anyone who wants full control over the cooking process and flavour. Whether pan-fried, grilled, or simmered in a curry, raw shrimp absorb spices and marinades exceptionally well, developing a firm, juicy texture as they cook. Look for products like raw, peeled shrimp to save on prep time.
• Cooked Shrimp: When you're short on time, cooked shrimp are a convenient solution. They are already cooked and often peeled and deveined. They can be used straight from the package for cold dishes like salads, cocktails, or as a side. For warm dishes, they should only be heated briefly to avoid a tough or rubbery result.

2. Understanding Sizing (Count)

The numbers on the packaging, such as 16/20 or 26/30, indicate the count. This refers to the number of shrimp per pound (approx. 453 g). The rule is simple: the smaller the numbers, the larger the shrimp.

• Large Counts (e.g., 6/8, 8/12): These are jumbo shrimp, often referred to as gambas. They are excellent for grilling or as the star of a dish where size is meant to impress. When you buy jumbo shrimp, you get fewer but very meaty specimens.
• Medium to Small Counts (e.g., 26/30, 31/40): These sizes are versatile for pasta, stir-fries, soups, or paella, where the shrimp should be more evenly distributed throughout the dish.

3. Shrimp Varieties: Black Tiger vs. Vannamei

Two of the most commonly offered varieties are Black Tiger and Vannamei.

• Black Tiger Shrimp: Known for their firm texture and distinct, slightly sweet flavour. They hold their shape well even at high temperatures, making them popular for grilling and frying. Their characteristic stripes also make them visually appealing.
• Vannamei Shrimp: This variety has a milder, sweeter taste and a slightly more delicate texture. It is extremely versatile and a common choice for a wide range of dishes, from salads to Asian stir-fries.

When buying frozen shrimp, always check the packaging for information on origin and ingredients.

Recommended Shrimp Products to Consider

Here is a selection of products that cater to different needs—from quick weeknight meals to special occasions.

For a Quick and Easy Meal: Mooijer-Volendam Vannamei Shrimps Cooked Peeled Deveined 26/30

Why this product stands out: These shrimp offer maximum convenience. They are already cooked, peeled, and deveined, which reduces prep time to a minimum. The 26/30 size makes them a versatile ingredient for numerous dishes.

Advantages:

• Ready to use: Ideal for quick meals, salads, or as a protein-rich addition.
• Mild flavour: The Vannamei shrimp is known for its mild, sweet aroma that complements many dishes without overpowering them.
• Consistent size: The package contains approximately 110-130 shrimp, making it easy to plan for recipes.

Who is it for? For busy professionals, novice cooks, and anyone looking for an easy and quick source of protein for salads, pasta, or cold platters.

For Grilling and Special Occasions: BML Food Group Ben's Black Tiger Shrimp 6/8

Why this product stands out: These Black Tiger shrimp in the 6/8 count are impressively large. Since they are delivered with the head and shell on (Head On Shell On), they release an intense flavour when cooked, especially on the grill.

Advantages:

• Maximum size and flavour: The shell protects the meat from drying out and ensures a juicy result, while the head provides additional flavour.
• Firm texture: Black Tiger shrimp are known for their firm meat that remains firm to the bite even under high heat.
• Visually appealing: Ideal for dishes where presentation matters.

Who is it for? For grill masters, experienced home cooks, and for special occasions where high-quality jumbo shrimp are meant to be the centrepiece.

The Versatile All-Rounder: Ben's Raw Peeled Vannamei 16/20

Why this product stands out: This product combines the benefits of raw shrimp with the convenience of being pre-peeled. The 16/20 size is an ideal middle ground—large enough to work as a main ingredient, but also suitable for stir-fries and curries.

Advantages:

• Flexibility in preparation: As a raw product, you can control the cooking point yourself and marinate the shrimp as you wish.
• Time-saving: Since the shrimp are already peeled, a time-consuming preparation step is eliminated.
• Excellent value for the quantity: With a net drained weight of 750g, this package is also suitable for larger families or for preparing multiple meals.

Who is it for? For home cooks who appreciate the taste of freshly cooked shrimp but want to skip the peeling. Perfect for paella, stir-fries, or shrimp skewers.

Looking for More Options?

This selection represents just a small part of the available range. If you are looking for other sizes, varieties, or preparation types, you can find a wider array of products in our seafood category.

? Explore our full range of frozen shrimp here

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What do the numbers on shrimp packaging mean (e.g., 26/30)?

The numbers indicate how many shrimp are in one pound (approx. 453 grams). A count of "26/30" means that there are between 26 and 30 shrimp of that size in a pound. The smaller the numbers, the larger the individual shrimp.

2. Should I buy raw or cooked shrimp?

That depends on the intended use. Raw shrimp are ideal if you want to marinate and then fry, grill, or boil them yourself for maximum control over flavour and texture. Cooked shrimp are a time-saving option for cold dishes like salads and cocktails, or for dishes where they only need to be briefly reheated.

3. What is the right way to thaw frozen shrimp?

The best method is to let the shrimp thaw overnight in the refrigerator. To do this, place the frozen shrimp in a bowl or on a plate. If you need them faster, you can place the shrimp in their sealed bag in a bowl of cold water for about 10–15 minutes. Avoid thawing in the microwave or at room temperature, as this can negatively affect the texture. Thawed shrimp should be used promptly and not be refrozen.