Prawns and shrimp are both members of the decapod family, or crustaceans with 10 legs. Additionally, both are used to make Chinese food, among many other types of cuisine. While prawns are often thought of as bigger shrimp, they are actually two different animals. Here's what you should know about the differences between these creatures. 

How Can You Distinguish Shrimp From Prawns?

Shrimp breathe underwater through lamellar, or plate-like, flat gills on their bodies, while prawns rely on branching gills, or gills on the sides of their heads. Because prawn shell segments overlap each other, these crustaceans cannot bend the way shrimp can. Other anatomical differences include the claws, as shrimp have claws on one pair of their legs and prawns have claws on three pairs of legs. Prawn legs are usually longer as well. Though prawns are generally thought of as the bigger of the two animals, “jumbo” shrimp are also found in the ocean. 

While prawns thrive in both freshwater and brackish (mildly salty) water, shrimp generally live in saltwater. However, some shrimp species dwell in freshwater, such as crystal, cherry, and tiger shrimp. 

How Are They Different in Terms of Eating? 

The majority of shrimp used in Chinese food and other cuisines are from saltwater, while prawns utilized in recipes are typically from freshwater. Prawns and shrimps are about the same in terms of taste, though prawns are considered the sweeter of the two. Most taste differences are due to whether the shrimp or prawns were wild-caught or farm-raised. Wild-caught shrimp and prawns reside in nutrient-rich waters, unlike their farmed counterparts, which makes them more delicious. Both can be cooked and served numerous ways, including grilled, sauteed, and fried. Barbecue shrimp and prawn dishes are also popular, such as those made with brown butter. 

Choose from prawn and shrimp dishes at Hong Wah Restaurant, the Chinese food establishment located in the Four Corners of Penfield, NY on the corner of Five Mile Line Road and 441 behind Dunkin Donuts. Regarded as one of the best restaurants of its kind in the region, this establishment is also celebrated for affordable prices. Call (585) 385-2808 to place a carry-out order or review the Chinese food menu online.