Going to the market for shrimp without knowing this trick will cost you—only natural shrimp full of roe are worth it!

Below are some simple tips to help you easily choose natural shrimp that are rich in roe and of the highest quality.

Shrimp is a familiar and nutritious seafood, loved by many families. Natural shrimp—especially black tiger prawns, giant freshwater prawns, and small wild shrimp—are highly valued for their sweet flavor, firm texture, and abundance of roe. However, at markets or supermarkets, not everyone knows how to tell the difference and buy shrimp that guarantee “10 out of 10 with roe.”

1. Check the shrimp’s head—the roe is hidden there

Shrimp carrying roe often show it clearly in the head area. Peel back the thin shell and you’ll see tiny yellow, orange, or light green grains.

• For black tiger prawns, roe runs along both sides of the head.

• For small wild shrimp or giant freshwater prawns, roe wraps around the abdomen—easy to spot.

Shrimp without roe usually have hollow, transparent heads with little to no paste.

Tip: Choose female shrimp with larger heads and fuller bodies—they’re more likely to carry roe.

2. Look at the shell color

• Natural shrimp: shells are clear, glossy, with a greenish or dark brown sheen depending on the type. Firm to the touch, never slimy.

• Shrimp with little roe: shells are pale, thin, and the flesh feels soft.

• Natural roe: golden yellow or moss green, never blackened.

3. Test firmness with your hands

Pick up the shrimp—head and body should be firmly attached.

• Roe-rich shrimp: the abdomen feels tight, full, and heavier.

• Poor-quality shrimp: soft, slippery, mushy shell when pressed.

4. Observe how they swim (if buying live shrimp)

• Natural shrimp swim fast, strong, with intact legs and antennae, and no scratches.

• Shrimp full of roe move a bit slower because of the heavy abdomen—easy to notice in a tub.

5. Buy at the right time

Shrimp carrying roe are most common during spawning season (April–September in the lunar calendar).

Go to the market early for the freshest batches—roe shrimp are still fresh, not spoiled.

6. Be careful with storage

Shrimp with roe spoil quickly at room temperature. Cook immediately after purchase or freeze them.

When boiled or steamed, natural shrimp roe stays creamy, sweet, and nutty—not fishy like low-quality shrimp.

7. Distinguish natural shrimp from farmed shrimp

• Natural shrimp: uneven sizes, darker shells, firmer meat.

• Farmed shrimp: uniformly large, pale shells, soft meat, little roe.

When cooked, natural shrimp have a fragrant aroma and clear broth, while farmed shrimp often produce foam and cloudy water.

8. Quick hack for “10 out of 10 with roe”

• Prioritize female shrimp with full bellies, firm heads, shiny shells.

• Gently flip the abdomen: if you see roe in golden yellow or moss green, the shrimp is definitely carrying eggs.

• Buy from trusted sellers or familiar markets that sell fresh seafood daily. Avoid frozen or long-stored shrimp.

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Choosing the right natural shrimp full of roe is the key to delicious, nutritious meals. With a little attention, you’ll easily bring home “10 out of 10 with roe”—tasty, healthy, and loved by the whole family.