Jumbo Shrimp For Your Home Party Needs

Shrimp come in a variety of sizes and types, but the most popular size for pure enjoyment is Jumbo shrimp. When purchasing shrimp there is always a number designation, indicating how many you will receive in a pound. The higher the number, the smaller the shrimp. There are generally 16-20 shrimp per lb. for jumbo, while large is 21-30, medium is 30-35 and small is 36-45.  Determining how much to buy will depend on the size, but generally count on 1/3 to 1/2 pound (shelled) per person.

Although there are more than 300 varieties of shrimp, the most popular types are the brown, pink, and white shrimp from the Atlantic ocean. These common names refer to the general color of the shrimp before cooking. Tiger shrimp is also popular, so named for its dark stripes.  In some areas, jumbo shrimp are referred to as prawns, but the prawn is actually a completely different species in the lobster family.

Many people think of a seafood meal as a special dinner to be enjoyed in a fine restaurant.  Shrimp is popular choice, either paired with steak, served as a shrimp cocktail appetizer, or mixed into pasta as shrimp scampi.  The finest shrimp cocktail is made with jumbo shrimp.  When cooked correctly and served chilled the firm and tender meat from jumbo shrimp can rival lobster or crab claws.  Although you can find many shrimp dishes in restaurants, it is quick and easy to prepare at home. 

When choosing seafood remember that shrimp is #1 for many reasons.  Chilled jumbo shrimp with cocktail sauce remains a quick and easy party platter; virtually any way you prepare shrimp it will turn an ordinary meal into a special treat.