What is Tiger Shrimp? A Comprehensive Guide to this Popular Shrimp Variety

Tiger shrimp are one of the most popular shrimp varieties, recognizable for their distinctive black and white striped shells. But what exactly are tiger shrimp, and what makes them different from other types of shrimp? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about tiger shrimp, including their characteristics, taste, nutrition profile, how they’re caught and farmed, recipes, and more

Overview and Characteristics of Tiger Shrimp

Tiger shrimp also known as giant tiger prawn or Asian tiger shrimp are a variety of marine crustacean that belong to the penaeid shrimp family. Their scientific name is Penaeus monodon. As their name suggests, tiger shrimp have a striped pattern on their shells that resembles a tiger’s stripes. They are typically brown, black, blue, or green in color with yellow or white bands.

Some key characteristics of tiger shrimp include:

• Large size – Tiger shrimp can grow up to 12 inches long, making them one of the largest shrimp species. They are considered “jumbo” shrimp.

• Stripe patterned shells – Their most distinguishing feature is the dark vertical stripes alternating with lighter bands on their shells and tails. When cooked, the stripes turn bright red.

• Where they live – Tiger shrimp are found natively in the Indo-Pacific region from the east coast of Africa to Japan and northern Australia. They live in coastal, brackish waters.

• Lifespan – They can live for over 5 years.

• Diet – Tiger shrimp are omnivores and eat algae, plankton, small fish, plants, and organic debris.

• Reproduction – Females can produce up to 1 million eggs per spawn. The larvae are released into the ocean and mature within 3-4 months.

Taste, Texture and Uses in Cooking

So what do tiger shrimp actually taste and feel like? Here’s a breakdown:

• Taste – Their flavor is described as mild, sweet, and slightly briny with a hint of nuttiness. Their taste becomes more pronounced when they are sautéed or grilled.

• Texture – Raw tiger shrimp have a firm, crunchy texture. When cooked, they become tender and succulent with a pleasant chewy bite. The meat is thick and plump.

• Cooking methods – Tiger shrimp work well when boiled, grilled, sautéed, baked, or stir-fried. They are excellent for kebabs, curries, seafood platters, pastas, and salads.

• Versatility – Their mild taste and firm meat allow them to absorb the flavors of sauces and marinades easily. This makes them ideal for many international cuisines.

Some popular dishes featuring tiger shrimp include: garlic butter shrimp, bang bang shrimp, shrimp scampi, shrimp tacos, shrimp skewers, and shrimp fried rice.

Nutrition Profile

Tiger shrimp are a healthy source of several important nutrients:

• High in protein – A 3 oz serving provides about 20g of protein. Their protein content is comparable to that of chicken or lean beef.

• Low fat – Tiger shrimp are low in total fat and saturated fat.

• Good source of selenium – Selenium supports thyroid function and immune health. Tiger shrimp provide about 28% of the DV per serving.

• Contains vitamins and minerals – They supply vitamins including B12, niacin, and zinc. Minerals include phosphorus, magnesium, copper, and iron.

• Low calorie – With around 100 calories per 3 oz serving, tiger shrimp can be part of a healthy, low-calorie diet.

How Tiger Shrimp Are Caught and Farmed

Most of the tiger shrimp consumed worldwide is farmed rather than wild-caught. Here is a look at both methods:

Wild Tiger Shrimp

• Caught by trawlers using large nets mostly in the Coromandel Coast of India, Gulf of California, and Western Mexico.

• Considered high quality with a sweeter taste than farmed.

• More expensive and limited supply.

• Risk of overfishing, so best to choose sustainably caught.

Farmed Tiger Shrimp

• Produced through aquaculture in artificial ponds and tanks.

• Main countries that farm them include Thailand, Indonesia, India, Vietnam, Bangladesh and China.

• Fed pelleted feed made of fishmeal, soybean, and other nutrients.

• Concerns over pollution and antibiotic use on some farms. Opt for well-managed farms.

• Cheaper and more widely available year-round.

When purchasing tiger shrimp, look for sustainably wild-caught or responsibly farmed options certified by organizations like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP), or Global Aquaculture Alliance (GAA).

Availability and Where to Buy

Tiger shrimp are available fresh or frozen year round. Here are some places you can buy them:

• Seafood markets and counters – Check Asian or international markets.

• Online seafood retailers – Many deliver overnight.

• Supermarkets – Larger stores carry them either shelled or in shells.

• Fishmongers – Can specially order for you.

Look for plump, firm shrimp with a mild seafood smell. Their shells should be shiny and firm. Refrigerate fresh shrimp tightly wrapped for 2-3 days max. Frozen, they’ll keep for 9 months in the freezer. Defrost in the fridge before cooking.

When buying packaged tiger shrimp, opt for ones free of added preservatives like sodium tripolyphosphate. Shell-on is preferable to maintain moisture.

Tiger Shrimp Recipe Ideas

Here are 3 delicious recipes to cook up these striped shrimp at home:

1. Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos

Crispy fried shrimp topped with spicy Sriracha mayo and crunchy slaw in warm tortillas. The spicy, tangy flavors pair perfectly with the plump shrimp.

2. Thai Coconut Curry Shrimp

Tiger shrimp simmered in a rich, flavorful Thai red curry coconut sauce with vegetables. Serve over rice. The sauce soaks into the shrimp beautifully.

3. Lemon Garlic Tiger Shrimp Pasta

A classic lemon garlic wine sauce tossed with tiger shrimp and linguine. Fresh, fast dinner ready in 20 minutes. The shrimp absorb all the bright flavors.

Is Tiger Shrimp Right for You?

While more expensive than smaller shrimp varieties, tiger shrimp offer a deliciously indulgent eating experience for special occasions and meals. Their nutrition profile delivers ample protein, important vitamins and minerals, and antioxidants. Responsibly sourced wild-caught or well-raised farm shrimp offer sustainable options.

So if you enjoy shrimp and want to try a new variety, tiger shrimp are a great choice to incorporate into seafood-based meals a few times a month. Just watch portion sizes as they are higher in cholesterol than other protein sources. Enjoy these striped beauties as part of a balanced diet for an appetizing taste of the sea.