Prawns and shrimp are two of the most commonly enjoyed seafood varieties across the world. But despite their popularity, many people confuse them because they look quite similar. In markets and restaurants, they are often used interchangeably, adding to the confusion.
However, prawns and shrimp are biologically different, vary in taste and texture, and also differ slightly in nutritional value. This blog covers all the essential differences, nutrition facts, benefits, side effects, the best recipe, and a final verdict to help you choose the right one for your meals.
Prawn vs Shrimp: Quick Overview
Comparison Table
| Feature | Prawns | Shrimp |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Generally larger | Usually smaller |
| Body Shape | Straight body | Curved body |
| Habitat | Mostly freshwater | Mostly saltwater |
| Taste & Texture | Sweeter, softer | Firm, slightly salty |
| Price | Slightly higher | More affordable |
| Popular Usage | Curries, grills, biryani | Stir-fries, pasta, fried dishes |
Key Differences Explained
1. Biological Differences
Even though prawns and shrimp look similar, they belong to different sub-orders.
- Body Anatomy: Prawns have branching gills, while shrimp have lamellar (plate-like) gills.
- Shell Structure: Prawns have three sets of claw-like legs; shrimp have only one large pair.
-
Gill Type:
Prawns → Dendrobranchiata (tree-like gills)
Shrimp → Pleocyemata (plate-like gills)
These biological differences affect their texture and how they cook.
2. Taste & Texture Difference
- Prawns have a slightly sweeter and more delicate flavor—perfect for curries, grills, and butter garlic dishes.
- Shrimp have a firmer texture with a mild salty flavor, ideal for pasta, salads, and fried recipes.
If you want a soft, juicy bite, choose prawns.
If you prefer a chewy, meaty texture, shrimp is better.
3. Cooking Differences
- Cooking Time: Shrimp cook faster because they are smaller; overcooking makes them rubbery.
-
When to Use Which:
- Use prawns for creamy curries, grills, biryanis.
- Use shrimp for stir-fries, tacos, pasta, fried snacks.
Both cook extremely quickly—usually under 5 minutes.
Nutritional Values (Prawn vs Shrimp)
Prawn Nutrition Facts (100g)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 105 kcal |
| Protein | 20.3 g |
| Fat | 1.7 g |
| Omega-3 | 0.32 g |
| Vitamins & Minerals | B12, Selenium, Zinc, Iron |
| Cholesterol | 195 mg |
Shrimp Nutrition Facts (100g)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 99 kcal |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Fat | 0.3 g |
| Omega-3 | 0.30 g |
| Vitamins & Minerals | B12, Selenium, Iodine |
| Cholesterol | 189 mg |
Comparison Analysis
- Calories: Shrimp has slightly fewer calories.
- Protein: Shrimp has more protein per 100g.
- Fat: Shrimp is extremely low in fat.
- Omega-3: Both are almost equal.
- Cholesterol: Both contain similar cholesterol levels.
- Vitamins: Prawns offer more zinc & iron; shrimp offers more B12 & iodine.
Health Benefits
1. Benefits of Eating Prawns
- High in Protein: Helps build muscles and supports metabolism.
- Low in Calories: Great for weight management.
- Rich in Selenium: Boosts antioxidant protection.
- Improves Immunity: Provides zinc, vitamin B12, and iron.
2. Benefits of Eating Shrimp
- Great for Weight Loss: Very low in fat and calories.
- High in Vitamin B12: Supports nerve health and blood formation.
- Good for Heart Health: Contains Omega-3 fatty acids.
- Rich in Astaxanthin: A powerful antioxidant.
Which One Is Healthier? (Expert Conclusion)
- For higher protein: Shrimp
- For more minerals (iron/zinc): Prawns
- For lower calories: Shrimp
- For softer taste & texture: Prawns
Verdict:
Nutritionally, shrimp is slightly healthier due to higher protein and lower fat.
Taste-wise, many prefer prawns for their sweetness and tenderness.
Best Recipe: Garlic Butter Prawns / Shrimp
Ingredients
- 300g prawns or shrimp (cleaned, deveined)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp red chilli flakes
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Fresh parsley or coriander for garnish
Instructions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a pan.
- Add garlic and sauté until golden.
- Add prawns/shrimp, salt, pepper, and chilli flakes.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes until they turn pink.
- Turn off the heat and add lemon juice.
- Garnish with parsley and serve.
Tip: This dish goes perfectly with garlic bread, rice, or pasta.
Prawn vs Shrimp: Final Verdict
If you prefer better taste and softer bite, choose prawns.
If you want higher protein, fewer calories, and firm texture, choose shrimp.
Both are excellent seafood options—affordable, nutritious, and easy to cook.
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Prawns Cheese Balls |
Prawns Nuggets |
Prawns Skewers |
Medium Prawns PDTO |
King Prawns PDTO |
Headless King Prawns |
Black Tiger Prawns |
White Tiger Prawns
Also Read: Rohu Fish Health Benefits, Nutrition Values & Recipes
FAQs
1. Are prawns bigger than shrimp?
Yes, prawns are generally larger than shrimp.
2. Which tastes better: prawns or shrimp?
Prawns are sweeter and softer, while shrimp are firmer with a mild salty taste.
3. Can you substitute prawns for shrimp?
Yes, you can use them interchangeably in most recipes.
4. Which is healthier: prawn or shrimp?
Shrimp is slightly healthier due to more protein and lower calories.
5. Do prawns and shrimp cook differently?
Shrimp cook faster; prawns are softer and take a bit longer but still cook quickly.
6. Which is better for weight loss?
Shrimp, because it has lower fat and calories.
7. Which is more affordable?
Shrimp is usually cheaper than prawns.
