When it comes to buying delicious and fresh prawns, there’s a knack to it that not everyone knows. Here’s some friendly advice to help you select the best prawns available.

Notice the Heads and Tails of Prawns

When shopping for prawns, pay close attention to their heads and tails. Sometimes, you might notice that they are black. This blackening occurs due to an enzyme reaction often caused by high temperatures or lack of oxygen. If you see prawns with black heads and tails, it likely means they have been left for too long and are starting to spoil. It’s best to avoid buying these.

Avoid Hard Prawns That Are Not Curling

If the prawns feel hard and look straight instead of curled, they may have been injected with impurities. Fresh prawns typically feel soft and have a natural curve. Injected prawns often feel bloated and will lose a lot of water during cooking, causing the meat to shrink more than usual.

Examine the Skin

Take a closer look at the skin of the prawns. A skin that is still tightly attached is a good sign of freshness. Conversely, if the skin begins to peel or detach, it could indicate that the prawns were harvested a long time ago and are no longer fresh.

Other Tips

If given the choice, always select fresh prawns over frozen ones. Fresh prawns tend to have a better flavor.

Odor is another important factor. Fresh prawns should not have a fishy or foul smell. A strong odor often signifies that the prawns are no longer fresh.

Color is a good indicator as well. Opt for prawns with bright and clear colors. Avoid those with a brownish or dull hue, as this could mean they are no longer fresh.

Finally, watch out for red or black spots on the prawns. These spots could indicate infection or damage, making them unsafe to eat.