Prawns and shrimp are common on seafood menus, but many diners still wonder whether they are the same. They look similar, taste almost alike and work well in many of the same dishes. However, prawns and shrimp are not exactly the same.
The main differences appear in their body shape, shell structure, legs and habitat. Regional language also creates confusion. In the UAE, India, UK and Australia the term prawns is often used, whilst in the United States the word shrimp is more common.
A simple guide to the difference between prawns and shrimp and how to pick the best one for your next meal.
Prawns vs. Shrimp: What’s the Difference in Simple Words?
Prawns and shrimp are crustaceans. They belong to the wider seafood family along with crab, lobster and crayfish. Both have ten legs, hard outer shells and no backbone.
The main difference is in the body structure. Shrimp usually have a curved body, whereas prawns look a little straighter. Prawns also have claws on more pairs of legs.
For most diners, these scientific details matter less than freshness, texture and cooking style. Both can taste excellent when a skilled kitchen handles them properly.
What Is Shrimp?
People often search “what is shrimp” when they want to understand how it differs from a prawn. Shrimp are small shellfish found in both saltwater and freshwater. Many commercially available varieties come from seas and coastal areas.
Shrimp have flexible bodies that curl after cooking. Their meat feels soft and tender, with a mild and slightly sweet flavour.
Shrimp work well in:
- Pasta and noodles
- Fried rice
- Soups and salads
- Tacos and wraps
- Curries and stir-fries
- Grilled seafood dishes
Because shrimp cook quickly, they are useful in meals that need little preparation time.
What Are Prawns?
Prawns are also ten-legged crustaceans, but their bodies are usually straighter, and their legs tend to be longer. Many prawn species live in freshwater, although some also live in coastal waters.
Prawns tend to have a firmer meat than shrimp. Larger varieties such as king prawns and tiger prawns are popular for grilling, barbecuing and in a seafood platter.
At Aylla Seafood Restaurant, diners can enjoy seafood dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and seasoning that allows the natural flavour to stand out.
Difference Between Shrimp and Prawn
The difference between shrimp and prawn becomes clearer when you compare their shape, legs, habitat and size.
Prawns vs. Shrimp: Body Shape and Shell
Shrimp have a curved body because the second section of their shell overlaps the sections in front and behind it. This body shape allows the shrimp to curl itself up more easily.
Prawns have shell sections that overlap one after another. Their bodies therefore appear straighter and less tightly curved.
Legs and Claws
Both have ten legs, but their claws differ.
- Prawns have claws on three pairs of legs.
- Shrimp generally have claws in two pairs.
- Prawns often have longer legs.
- Shrimp usually have shorter front legs.
These differences are easier to see before the shell is removed.
Freshwater and Saltwater Habitat
Shrimp commonly live in saltwater, while many prawns live in freshwater. However, this is not a fixed rule. Some shrimp species live in rivers and lakes, while some prawns live in coastal waters.
Water sources may cause small flavour differences, but freshness and preparation usually affect the taste more.
Size and Appearance
Prawns are often larger than shrimp, but size alone cannot identify them correctly. Some shrimp species grow larger than small prawns.
Terms such as jumbo shrimp and king prawns often describe their market size rather than their exact biological group.
Prawn vs Shrimp: Taste and Texture
The taste difference in a prawn vs shrimp comparison is very small. Both have a mild, slightly sweet flavour.
Shrimp are generally milder in flavor and have a softer bite while prawns are a little firmer and meatier. Larger prawns tend to be better for grilling, as they hold their shape well.
Both pair nicely with:
- Garlic and butter
- Lemon and herbs
- Chilli and spices
- Coconut milk
- Tomato-based sauces
- Smoky marinades
Freshness matters more than the name. Properly stored shellfish should taste clean and delicate, not strong or unpleasant.
Are Prawns Fish?
The phrase “prawns fish” is commonly searched, but prawns are not fish. They are shellfish.
Fish have backbones, fins and scales. Prawns have hard outer shells, jointed legs and no backbone. They belong to the crustacean family, along with crab and lobster.
Prawns are still served with fresh fish, crab, calamari and lobster in many mixed seafood platters, which may explain why people place them in the same group.
Health Benefits of Prawns and Shrimp
Prawns and shrimp provide protein and several useful nutrients. They can form part of a balanced diet when cooked with moderate amounts of oil, butter and salt.
They provide:
- High-quality protein
- Vitamin B12
- Selenium
- Zinc
- Iodine
- Omega-3 fatty acids
Grilled, boiled or steamed options usually contain less added fat than deep-fried dishes.
How to Choose Fresh Prawns and Shrimp
Fresh shellfish should have firm flesh, clean shells and a mild sea-like smell. Whether you buy from a market or order at a seafood restaurant in Dubai, freshness should come first.
Look for:
- Firm and moist flesh
- Bright, intact shells
- A mild ocean smell
- Clear appearance
- Proper cold storage
Avoid shellfish with a strong ammonia smell, broken shells, slimy flesh or heavy discolouration.
Aylla Seafood Restaurant focuses on well-prepared seafood dishes that bring out the natural taste of each ingredient.
Best Ways to Cook Prawns and Shrimp
Prawns and shrimp cook quickly. Overcooking makes them dry and rubbery, so remove them from the heat once the flesh becomes firm and opaque.
Popular cooking methods include:
- Grilling
- Pan-frying
- Steaming
- Boiling
- Baking
- Stir-frying
Popular dishes include garlic butter prawns, prawn curry, shrimp pasta, seafood rice and grilled fish and seafood platters.
Prawns vs Shrimp: Which One Should You Choose?
Choose shrimp for pasta, salads, rice, soups and stir-fries. Their smaller size makes them easy to mix with other ingredients.
Choose prawns for grilling, curries, barbecues and large sharing dishes. Their firmer texture and larger size suit main courses well.
There’s no clear winner in the prawns vs shrimp debate. The best choice will depend on your desired texture, portion size and dish. When served fresh and cooked for just the right amount of time at a top-notch Aylla Seafood Restaurant, both can make a delicious meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are prawns and shrimp the same?
No. They are related shellfish, but their body structure, legs and gills differ.
Which is bigger, prawns or shrimp?
Prawns are often larger, although some shrimp species can also grow quite big.
Can prawns replace shrimp in recipes?
Yes. You can use either in most dishes, but larger prawns may need more cooking time.
Do prawns and shrimp taste different?
Their taste is very similar. Prawns usually have a firmer texture than shrimp.
Are prawns considered seafood?
Yes. Prawns are shellfish and form part of the wider seafood category.