When it comes to buying the best tasting frozen prawns, understanding all of the terms and abbreviations can be quite a challenge. However, a little knowledge will go a long way in ensuring you get the best quality and value for your money.
Quality
Frozen prawns are a great alternative to fresh ones because they can be easily stored for long. However, it is important to understand how frozen prawns are produced before you eat them. When seafood is improperly frozen, it can become unsafe for consumption. That’s why it is crucial to find a company that offers high-quality, safe prawns.
The prawns are first washed with potable, chilled water and then graded (called factory grading) by size, ranging from U5 to U16. They are then washed again and iced with flake or block ice. After that, the prawns are glazed, packed in polythene-polypropylene-coated paper cartons and then put into a master carton for packaging. They are also checked for filth and kept in frozen storage until they are ready to be shipped.
A delicious seafood meal is a must for any family gathering, but the busy life of today’s families leaves little time to cook elaborate meals. Instead, a delicious seafood dinner can be prepared in just a few easy steps by cooking frozen prawns. You can either place them in a colander and run them under cold water for 30 seconds or leave them in the fridge overnight to defrost. Then, add them to your favourite dishes and enjoy!
Freshness
Prawns are delicious seafood that add flavour to a wide variety of dishes. They’re also high in protein and low in calories, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet. The best tasting frozen prawns are those that have been prepared quickly and stored in the freezer at just the right temperature. Frozen prawns can be used in soups, curries, biryanis and salads.
To make sure that frozen prawns have the best taste, they are cooked and peeled, then individually quick-frozen (IQF) in easy-to-reseal bags. This process removes water from the prawn, which prevents them from drying out. It also makes it easier to thaw them. If you choose IQF prawns, be sure to read the label carefully and follow instructions for cooking.
The best tasting frozen prawns will have the dates they were made or packaged printed on them, along with the expiry date. It helps to keep track of how long they’ve been in the freezer so that you can use them before they start to deteriorate.
Environment
The cold-water prawn (Pandalus borealis) is well-known for its delicate flavour and firm, juicy texture. It is also a nutritious delicacy, with a good source of protein and minerals. The prawn lives near the seabed in soft, muddy benthic conditions and feeds on plankton, krill and microscopic worms. This type of prawn grows slowly and is carefully sourced to ensure that the complex taste and texture of the meat can be fully developed.
Safety
Prawns, like all seafood, must be handled carefully to avoid contamination. If they have been improperly stored or frozen and thawed at the wrong temperature, they may contain harmful bacteria that could cause illness or other health problems. When choosing a supplier of frozen prawns, look for one that has rigorous quality control standards. Their prawns should be free from sliminess and discolouration and must be firm with a mild ocean scent. They should also be well packaged and labelled clearly with a use-by date and freezer mark.
The best tasting frozen prawns are those that have been kept as fresh as possible before freezing. It will help to ensure that they have a good flavour and texture after thawing. Prawns that are frozen properly are also less likely to dehydrate and oxidise, ensuring their taste remains delicious.
To freeze prawns, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and then transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container. It will prevent them from sticking together and will make it easier to separate the prawns when they are thawed. Vacuum-sealed bags are the best choice, as they will keep out extra air and moisture. Label the bag or container with the date they were frozen, as this will help you to identify and use the oldest prawns first.