Hey there! I’m Thomas, a seafood enthusiast and home cook who’s totally obsessed with finding the best dried shrimp for my recipes. After years of hunting down this amazing ingredient, I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect dried shrimp for your cooking needs.
Best Places to Buy Dried Shrimp
1. Asian Grocery Stores – Your Top Bet!
Asian markets are my go-to spots for dried shrimp shopping. Here’s why I love them
- Huge variety of brands and sizes
- Authentic products imported directly from Asia
- Better prices ($3-$15 for 2-8 oz bags)
- Fresh stock due to high turnover
- Expert staff who can answer your questions
2. Online Retailers – Convenience at Your Fingertips
I’ve found some amazing dried shrimp options online. Here are some reliable sources:
-
Kho Market (khomarket.com)
- Premium Louisiana dried shrimp
- Sizes from small to X-large
- Prices range from $15-$18 per 8oz
- 100% natural and antibiotic-free
- Free shipping on orders over 5 lbs
-
Louisiana Dried Shrimp Co. (louisianadriedshrimp.com)
- Various sizes available (X-small to X-large)
- 1lb bags ranging from $19-$27
- Local, high-quality products
- Bulk order options available
3. International Markets
Don’t sleep on these gems! Each type of international market offers unique dried shrimp varieties
- Latin American markets – Look for “Camarones secos”
- Caribbean stores – Great for salted shrimp
- Middle Eastern grocers – Tiny dried shrimp for traditional dishes
- Price range: Usually under $10 for 5-8 oz
4. Mainstream Grocery Stores
When you’re in a pinch check these places
- Kroger
- Safeway
- Publix
Pro tip: Look in the freezer section or dried seafood area. Expect to pay around $6 for a 2 oz package.
How to Choose Quality Dried Shrimp
When I’m shopping for dried shrimp, here’s my checklist:
Visual Inspection
- ✅ Plump, curved bodies
- ✅ Translucent shells with natural shine
- ✅ Bright pink/orange color
- ❌ Avoid dull, broken, or spotted pieces
Quality Indicators
- Natural ocean smell (not fishy!)
- Firm texture with slight crunch
- Attached heads preferred
- Clear packaging with visible product
Storage Tips
Listen up! Here’s how I keep my dried shrimp fresh:
- Transfer to airtight container
- Remove excess air
- Store in:
- Freezer (for bulk purchases)
- Cool, dry pantry (for regular use)
- Use within 2 months for best flavor
My Fave Ways to Use Dried Shrimp
Y’all, these little guys are super versatile! Here’s what I do with them:
- Toss into fried rice for extra umami
- Add to soups and broths
- Sprinkle on salads
- Mix into dips
- Make homemade shrimp chips
- Season stir-fries
- Create flavor-packed oils
Price Guide 2025
| Size/Type | Store Price | Online Price |
|---|---|---|
| Small | $3-6/2oz | $15-21/lb |
| Medium | $4-8/2oz | $16-23/lb |
| Large | $5-10/2oz | $17-25/lb |
| X-Large | $6-12/2oz | $18-27/lb |
Final Thoughts
Finding good dried shrimp ain’t rocket science, but it does take a bit of know-how. I always tell my friends to start with Asian markets or trusted online sellers like Kho Market or Louisiana Dried Shrimp Co. They’re a bit pricier than regular grocery stores, but trust me, the quality difference is worth every penny!
Remember, good dried shrimp should smell like the ocean, not like that forgotten fish in the back of your fridge! And don’t forget to store them properly – nobody wants stale shrimp ruining their perfect dish.
Need more cooking tips or got questions about where to find dried shrimp in your area? Drop a comment below – I’m always happy to help fellow food enthusiasts!
Would you like me to explain or break down any part of this article in more detail?
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- Turning on notifications for the Instacart app
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Buying dried shrimp in China town, 7/24/23
FAQ
What is dried shrimp called?
Dried shrimp are shrimp that have been dried in the sun, resulting in a concentrated flavour and aroma, with a chewy texture, if eaten whole. You will find them used in many cuisines around the world, across the oceans. I grew up calling them udang kering, which is what they are known as in the Malay language.
Is eating dried shrimp healthy?
Yes, dried shrimp can be a healthy addition to your diet. They are a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, and they are low in fat.
What is a good substitute for dried shrimp?
If you cannot find dried shrimp or prefer an alternative, anchovies, fish sauce, and shrimp paste are viable substitutes that mimic the umami flavor profile.
Is dried out shrimp real shrimp?
Dried shrimp are shrimp that have been sun-dried and shrunk to a thumbnail size. They are used in many African, East Asian, Southeast Asian and South Asian cuisines, imparting a unique umami taste. A handful of shrimp is generally used for dishes.