Hey seafood lovers! I’ve spent countless hours researching and trying to find the best places to buy black tiger shrimp, and lemme tell you – it’s been quite the journey! Today, I’m gonna share everything I’ve learned about where to get these amazing striped creatures that’ll make your meals extra special.
What Makes Black Tiger Shrimp So Special?
Before we dive into where to buy ’em let’s talk about why these babies are worth hunting down
- Distinct black stripes on their shells (that’s why they’re called tigers!)
- Light stripes on their flesh
- Moist, firm texture
- Crisp, clean flavor
- Perfect for shrimp cocktails and grilled dishes
- Usually come in impressive 8-12 count size (meaning they’re BIG!)
Best Places to Buy Black Tiger Shrimp
1. Great Alaska Seafood – Our Top Pick!
We’ve found that Great Alaska Seafood is one of the most reliable sources for black tiger prawns. Here’s what they offer:
- Single Pound Option: $29.95/lb
- Bulk Buy Option: 8 lbs for $219.60 (includes free shipping!)
- Pre-peeled and deveined (saves you tons of prep time!)
- Guaranteed fresh quality
- 25+ years in business experience
Why We Love Them:
- 100% locally based in Alaska
- Quality & satisfaction guaranteed
- Free overnight shipping on orders of 8 lbs or more
- Easy online ordering process
2. Local Seafood Markets
Your local fish market might be hiding some treasures! Here’s what to look for:
- Fresh daily deliveries
- Ability to inspect before buying
- Often negotiable prices
- Building relationships with local vendors
3. Asian Specialty Markets
These spots often have:
- Competitive pricing
- Various size options
- Fresh and frozen varieties
- Authentic Asian varieties
Tips for Buying Black Tiger Shrimp
-
Size Matters
- Look for 8-12 count per pound
- Bigger isn’t always better – medium sizes are great for most recipes
-
Freshness Check
- Shell should be shiny
- No black spots or yellowing
- Should smell like the ocean, not fishy
- Firm to touch
-
Price Considerations
- Expect to pay $25-35 per pound
- Bulk purchases usually offer better value
- Watch for seasonal sales
Storage Tips After Purchase
Once you’ve got your hands on these beauties:
- Fresh shrimp: Use within 2 days
- Store on ice in fridge
- For freezing:
- Wrap tightly in plastic
- Double bag to prevent freezer burn
- Label with date
- Good for up to 6 months
Our Fave Ways to Cook Black Tiger Shrimp
-
Classic Grilled Skewers
- Brush with olive oil
- Season with garlic and herbs
- Grill 2-3 mins each side
-
Epic Shrimp Cocktail
- Boil with lemon and bay leaves
- Ice bath immediately
- Serve with spicy cocktail sauce
-
Stir-Fry Supreme
- High heat wok cooking
- Add at the last minute
- Don’t overcook!
When to Buy
- Best seasons: Spring and Fall
- Holiday demands can affect prices
- Many vendors offer special deals during off-peak times
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Don’t buy if:
- Shells are soft
- Strong ammonia smell present
- Excessive ice crystals (sign of thawing/refreezing)
-
Pricing red flags:
- Too-good-to-be-true deals
- Unusually high prices without justification
Customer Service Matters
When buying online or in-store, look for:
- Responsive customer service
- Clear shipping policies
- Return/refund guarantees
- Knowledgeable staff
Environmental Considerations
We care about sustainability! Look for:
- Responsibly sourced products
- Environmentally conscious packaging
- Sustainable farming practices
- Local sourcing when possible
Final Thoughts
Finding quality black tiger shrimp ain’t rocket science, but it does require some know-how! Whether you choose Great Alaska Seafood (our top pick!) or your local market, remember to prioritize quality and freshness over price.
Remember to always ask questions about the source and handling of your shrimp – any reputable seller will be happy to share this info!
Quick Recap Checklist:
✅ Check size and count
✅ Verify freshness
✅ Compare prices
✅ Consider bulk options
✅ Look for quality guarantees
✅ Ask about shipping methods
✅ Check return policies
P.S. Don’t forget to sign up for seafood vendor newsletters – you’d be surprised how many great deals you can catch!
#seafood #blacktigershrimp #cooking #foodie #seafoodlovers #cooking101
Grilling & Tasting Costco’s Black Tiger Shrimp #shrimp #costco #recipe
FAQ
Does Costco sell black tiger shrimp?
Organic Black Tiger Shrimp EZ Peel 16/20 285 g (10.1 oz) x 15 pack | Costco.
Is black tiger shrimp better than regular shrimp?
They taste just the same as regular shrimp but are bigger, and meatier. If you like large shrimp then this variety is a must try. I had a frozen pack in my freezer and wanted to use them up so I decided to make a quick tiger shrimp stir fry.
Where are black tiger shrimp found?
Its natural distribution is the Indo-Pacific, ranging from the eastern coast of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, as far as Southeast Asia, the Pacific Ocean, and northern Australia.
Does Whole Foods have tiger shrimp?
Jumbo Peeled Deveined Black Tiger Shrimp 16/20 Count at Whole Foods Market.