Hey there, fellow seafood lovers! I’ve been cooking shrimp for years, and one question I get asked all the time is about buying the right amount of shrimp. Today, we’re gonna dive deep into everything you need to know about buying a half pound of shrimp, including prices, sizes, and how many pieces you’ll actually get.
Quick Answer
A half pound of shrimp typically contains between 8-35 pieces depending on the size you choose. Prices can range from $6-15 per half pound, varying by size type, and whether they’re fresh or frozen.
Understanding Shrimp Sizes (It’s Not as Confusing as You Think!)
Before we talk money, let’s break down shrimp sizes. Trust me, this’ll help you get the best value for your buck!
Here’s a super handy chart showing how many shrimp you’ll get in a half pound:
| Shrimp Size | Count in 1/2 Pound |
|---|---|
| Extra Colossal | 4-5 pieces |
| Colossal | 6-7 pieces |
| Jumbo | 10-12 pieces |
| Large | 15-17 pieces |
| Medium | 20-25 pieces |
| Small | 25-30 pieces |
| Extra Small | 30-35 pieces |
Price Breakdown by Size
I’ve done some research and here’s what you can expect to pay for different sizes:
- Extra Colossal/Colossal: $12-15 per half pound
- Jumbo: $10-12 per half pound
- Large: $8-10 per half pound
- Medium: $7-9 per half pound
- Small/Extra Small: $6-8 per half pound
How Many Servings in a Half Pound?
Here’s the real tea – a half pound of shrimp typically serves
- 1-2 people as a main course
- 3-4 people as an appetizer
- 4-6 people in a mixed dish (like pasta or stir-fry)
Tips for Buying Shrimp (From Someone Who’s Made All the Mistakes!)
-
Fresh vs. Frozen
- TBH, frozen shrimp are often fresher than “fresh” shrimp at the counter
- Most “fresh” shrimp were actually frozen and thawed anyway
- Frozen shrimp are usually cheaper too!
-
Shell On vs. Peeled
- Shell-on shrimp are usually cheaper
- Shells add flavor when cooking
- But peeled are more convenient (duh!)
-
Where to Buy
- Local seafood markets
- Grocery store seafood counters
- Frozen food section
- Wholesale clubs (great deals if you’re buying more!)
Common Questions I Get Asked
“Should I get deveined shrimp?”
Deveined shrimp cost a bit more but save you time. For a half pound, expect to pay about $1-2 extra for deveined.
“What size should I buy for…”
- Cocktail shrimp: Large or Jumbo
- Pasta dishes: Medium or Large
- Stir-fry: Medium
- Grilling: Jumbo or Colossal
- Party appetizers: Large
Money-Saving Tips
- Buy in bulk and freeze
- Watch for sales (I always stock up!)
- Consider frozen over fresh
- Buy shell-on if you don’t mind peeling
- Check wholesale clubs for better prices
How to Store Your Shrimp
Once you’ve got your half pound, here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Fresh shrimp: Use within 1-2 days, store on ice in the fridge
- Frozen shrimp: Keep frozen up to 6 months
- Thawed shrimp: Use within 24 hours
Final Thoughts
Getting the right amount of shrimp doesn’t have to be complicated! For a half pound, you’re looking at spending anywhere from $6-15, depending on size and type. My pro tip? Start with medium or large sizes if you’re new to buying shrimp – they’re versatile and reasonably priced.
Remember, the “best” size really depends on how you’re planning to cook them. And don’t be afraid to ask your seafood counter person for advice – they’re usually super helpful!
Note: Prices mentioned are averages and may vary by location and season. I always recommend checking your local stores for current prices!
#Seafood #Cooking #ShoppingTips #FoodGuide #Shrimp
