Crustacean Showdown: Deciphering Prawns and Shrimp on Your Meal

Prawns and shrimp, two popular seafood choices, are often used interchangeably in recipes across the globe. However, these crustaceans have some differences that are worth noting.

Firstly, both prawns and shrimp have a similar taste and texture, with their meat being firm, slightly sweet, and taking on the taste of surrounding ingredients. But, their appearances can differ significantly. Shrimp have a curved body with overlapping shell segments, creating a signature bend, while prawns have straighter bodies and three pairs of claws on their legs, compared to shrimp's two.

When it comes to species, there are hundreds of varieties of both prawns and shrimp. In the U.S., the term "shrimp" often refers to all types, while "prawns" may be reserved for larger specimens. Interestingly, the term "prawns" in the United States originates from British English, where it generally refers to larger shrimp species; this usage was carried over with English language influence but is more commonly called "shrimp" in the U.S.

Cooking time can vary between prawns and shrimp due to differences in size and shell thickness. Prawns may need a bit longer to cook compared to shrimp, which can turn rubbery if overcooked. Therefore, it's essential to keep an eye on the pan regardless of the method (frying, boiling, or grilling). If a recipe calls for large shrimp but you only have prawns, you can substitute them, adjusting cooking time accordingly.

Whether your dish is scampi, gumbo, or seafood risotto, the most important factor is how you cook the shellfish, not whether it's shrimp or prawns. Freshness matters more than origin when cooking prawns or shrimp. When buying, consider size, freshness, and your recipe's needs. Peeled, deveined options save time, but shell-on versions retain more flavor.

Despite their differences, when peeled and plated, those differences practically disappear. Whether you're enjoying a plate of prawns or shrimp, you're in for a treat. So, next time you're at the seafood counter, don't hesitate to choose either prawns or shrimp – both are delicious choices!