The main distinction lies in their freshness. If you’re not careful, you might end up buying straight shrimp that have been frozen and are no longer fresh. These shrimp tend to have inferior texture and a strong fishy odor that ruins their flavor.

When shopping at the supermarket or market, it’s best to choose curved shrimp. This is because when shrimp d.ie, their muscles relax, causing their bodies to stiffen and remain straight regardless of handling. Conversely, live or very fresh shrimp naturally curl into a curved shape, especially when exposed to cold temperatures. So, fresh or properly chilled shrimp will always have a curved body.

Besides the shape, watch out for these warning signs to avoid shrimp that have been stored too long:

1.  Shrimp Missing Heads or Tails

If you notice shrimp without heads or tails, it’s often a sign they have been kept for too long. The heads can rot and become soft, which results in a fishy smell and unpleasant taste after cooking. It’s better to avoid these.

2.  Shrimp with Red Shells

Sometimes shrimp shells turn red due to heat exposure during transport. Red shells usually indicate aging shrimp that have lost their freshness and flavor. Choose shrimp with clean, natural-colored shells without discoloration.

3.  Shrimp with Soft, Mushy Flesh

Shrimp meat that feels too soft and lacks firmness suggests spoilage. These shrimp often have stronger unpleasant odors, and their heads and tails may detach easily. Cooking such shrimp will produce an off-putting fishy taste, so it’s best to avoid them.

To reduce any fishy smell when cooking shrimp, boil them in water infused with Sichuan peppercorns, ginger, and beer. This combination helps eliminate odors effectively. For the best taste and texture, consume shrimp on the same day they are cooked, as leftover shrimp tend to become dry and lose freshness.

In summary, always choose shrimp with a natural curved shape for the freshest and most tender experience. No matter how you cook them, curved shrimp will deliver better flavor and texture.