Eat shrimp regularly, but do you know how many different types of shrimp exist? In this article, we will provide tips on how to distinguish common types of shrimp in Vietnam, such as black tiger shrimp, white shrimp, ground shrimp, iron shrimp, lobster, and more. It is not only important to know how to prepare delicious shrimp dishes but also how to identify the different types of shrimp. Let’s explore this topic now.

Fresh seafood, including raw shrimp and raw squid, can be used to create a variety of dishes. Shrimp, in particular, can be boiled, steamed, added to hot pot, or grilled. However, there are many types of shrimp, including white shrimp, black tiger shrimp, and crayfish. In this article, we will explore the different types of shrimp available and their characteristics.

Shrimp is a nutritious seafood option, as it is packed with protein. In 100g of shrimp, there is 18.4g of protein. Additionally, shrimp is rich in vitamins and minerals, especially calcium, making it a great choice for boosting calcium levels in the body. Shrimp can be found in various habitats, including rivers, seas, and farms.

One of the most popular types of shrimp is black tiger shrimp. It has firm meat, a large size, and a sweet taste. Black tiger shrimp can be farmed or found in the sea. Farmed black tiger shrimp usually have a blue color with black and yellow veins on their dorsal surface. They are often used in dishes that require the freshness and crunchiness of shrimp, such as steamed shrimp, boiled shrimp, and raw shrimp with Thai sauce.

White shrimp, on the other hand, is a type of sea shrimp that is yellow or pale green in color. It has a thin shell, firm flesh, and a sweet taste. White shrimp is mainly found on islands and rocks, with the ones from Quang Ninh being a specialty due to their unique sweetness. It is important to note that white shrimp has a vein that resembles black tiger shrimp, but they are different.

Ground shrimp, also known as river shrimp, are found in muddy environments such as rivers and ponds. They can be saltwater or freshwater shrimp, with saltwater shrimp having a thicker shell. Ground shrimp have a reddish-brown color, a sweet and crispy taste, and an elongated body.

Another type of shrimp is iron shrimp, which has a hard shell and a dark blue color. Iron shrimp are smaller in size compared to other marine shrimp but have tough and flavorful meat. They are often found in certain regions of Vietnam, such as Cat Ba and Vung Tau.

Lobster is a type of shrimp known for its clear blue or pink-red color. It has a hard shell and abundant meat, making it the largest type of shrimp. Lobster comes in various varieties, including Cotton Lobster, Blue Lobster, and Baby Lobster, each with its unique characteristics. Lobster is often cooked using methods such as steaming, grilling, or frying.

Crayfish, also known as field shrimp or river crayfish, is a freshwater shrimp with green coloration. It has smaller size compared to other shrimp species but offers a chewy texture and a sweet taste. Crayfish is typically found in the Pacific-Indian Ocean and Northern Australia.

Mantis shrimp is a marine shrimp that can change its color from brown to green, pale pink, black, and even luminescent. It has a unique shape resembling both a shrimp and a mantis. Mantis shrimp is often found in warm seas like the Pacific Ocean.

Hat shrimp, also known as ten-legged crustaceans, live in the deep sea or on reefs and coral reefs. They have thick shells and heavy bodies, with the flesh representing only a fraction of their weight. Hat shrimp offers sweet, chewy, and delicious meat, with even higher nutrient content compared to lobster.

Prawn is a type of marine shrimp found in the wild. They have a larger size and a more robust flavor compared to other shrimp species. Prawns are often used in various dishes, offering a distinct taste.

In Vietnam, these different types of shrimp are available at various prices depending on their size and location. It is important to be familiar with the characteristics of each type to make informed choices when purchasing or preparing shrimp dishes.