Prawn vs Shrimp – Taste, Size, and Nutrition Compared

Seafood fans often argue about one thing: prawn vs shrimp. They may look similar, but they differ in taste, size, and even nutrition. Knowing the difference helps whether you are cooking at home or ordering at your favorite café.
Hungry already? Try our freshly made prawn cakes at Ideas Café and taste the difference yourself.
Prawn vs Shrimp – What’s the Difference?
Both belong to different families. Prawns usually have longer legs and a bigger body, while shrimps are smaller with a curved shape. Though they look similar on the plate, chefs know the difference when cooking them.
For a deeper scientific take, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration also explains how these crustaceans differ.
Prawn vs Shrimp Taste
Taste is where seafood lovers really notice the difference. Prawns often have a sweeter and meatier flavor, while shrimp carry a stronger, sometimes saltier taste. At Ideas Café, our prawn cakes highlight this sweetness, paired with garlic, ginger, lime, and coriander.
Prawn vs Shrimp Size
When it comes to size, prawns are generally bigger. If you ever hear “jumbo shrimp,” it can still be smaller than a regular prawn. Here’s a simple comparison:
-
Prawns: Larger, straight body
-
Shrimp: Smaller, more curved body
For a quick food science view, you can check Healthline’s guide comparing both in size and nutrition.
Prawn vs Shrimp Nutrition
Both are great sources of protein, low in calories, and high in omega-3 fatty acids.
-
Prawns: Slightly higher in iron and calcium
-
Shrimp: Slightly lower in calories
For a balanced diet, either option works well — it often depends on your taste preference.
Which One to Eat?
If you like a sweeter, meatier bite, prawns may win. If you prefer something lighter and saltier, shrimp works. At Ideas Café, we highlight prawns in our special prawn cakes to give you that fresh and flavorful experience.
Beyond the Debate – Try It Fresh
While people keep comparing prawn vs shrimp, the best way is to try both and decide yourself. Our café brings out the natural flavors through fresh cooking — without overwhelming spices so you taste the real difference.
Explore more of our favorites:
- Try a light chicken soup that many of our regulars love.
- Order grilled seafood platters for a mix of flavors.
- Or go simple with our house iced coffee to pair with snacks.
Conclusion
The prawn vs shrimp debate will continue, but both remain popular choices worldwide. If you want to experience the sweeter and richer side of seafood, our prawn cakes at Ideas Café are waiting for you. Visit us and taste the difference yourself.
FAQs
Are shrimp and prawn the same?
No, they are different species with slight differences in size, body structure, and taste.
Which is better to eat, shrimp or prawns?
Both are healthy, but prawns are usually meatier while shrimp is lighter. It depends on what you prefer.
Which is more expensive, prawns or shrimp?
Prawns are often pricier due to their larger size and sweeter flavor.