Shrimp is one of the most popular types of seafood, loved for its sweet and briny flavor. Two shrimp varieties that stand out are green shrimp and Calabash shrimp. While both are delicious, they have some distinct differences when it comes to taste, texture, preparation and more.
What is Green Shrimp?
Green shrimp, also called Carolina green shrimp, are a variety found along the Atlantic coast. They get their name from the greenish-blue hue on their tails and legs. These shrimp have a mildly sweet taste and firm texture. Their small size, averaging 3-5 inches, makes them perfect for sautéing, grilling, steaming and more.
Green shrimp is in season during the fall months. It has a short harvest period, so it is considered a delicacy. Prices are generally higher for fresh green shrimp compared to other varieties.
What is Calabash Shrimp?
Calabash shrimp refers to a specific preparation method rather than a variety. The name comes from the tiny fishing village of Calabash, North Carolina This is where the iconic Calabash-style batter originated.
To make Calabash shrimp, small creek shrimp or bay shrimp are dredged in a very light cornmeal and flour batter. They are then fried to a perfect golden crisp. This results in an ultra-light crispy coating that doesn’t mask the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
Flavor and Texture
Green shrimp has a noticeably sweeter and more succulent taste compared to regular shrimp, It has a firm bite and tight flesh The texture becomes even firmer when cooked,
Calabash shrimp also has a sweet briny shrimp flavor. However, the ultra-crisp and featherlight batter adds a pleasant crunchy texture contrast. The cornmeal gives it a hint of cornbread flavor.
Appearance
Green shrimp gets its name from the greenish-blue tint on the tails and bottom shell. The bodies are translucent gray. They are on the smaller side, with large shrimp reaching 5 inches long.
Calabash shrimp is covered in a light, golden fried batter that is stretchy and lacelike when perfectly cooked. Breading shouldn’t overwhelm the shrimp underneath. The shrimp itself is very small, usually less than 3 inches.
Origins
Green shrimp is native to the coastal Carolina region. It is found in the wild year-round but peaks during fall months when large numbers migrate. This seasonal availability makes them a regional delicacy.
True Calabash shrimp must come from Calabash, North Carolina, where the signature preparation technique originated. The tiny shrimp used are usually caught locally.
Preparation
Green shrimp can be prepared many ways – boiled, grilled, sautéed, etc. Simple preparations are popular to let the sweet flavor shine. They are perfect for shrimp and grits or simmering in soups and stews.
Authentic Calabash shrimp is always fried. The very light, thin batter allows the shrimp flavor to come through. It is served piled high as an entrée with sides like hushpuppies and coleslaw.
Nutrition
A 3-ounce serving of green shrimp provides about 20 grams of protein, 1 gram of fat, and 100 milligrams of sodium. As a low-calorie, high-protein food, it makes for a nutritious choice.
Calabash shrimp gets a good amount of its calories from the fried batter. But a 3-ounce serving still contains at least 15 grams of protein. The cornmeal batter also adds some carbohydrates.
Availability
Green: Found fresh or frozen in coastal seafood markets, usually available fall through early winter. Sold whole, peeled, or breaded.
Calabash: Mainly found in seafood restaurants on the Carolina coast or bought frozen online. Rarely sold fresh in markets.
Price
Green: $12-15 per pound fresh when in season based on location and availability. Frozen averages $8-10 per pound.
Calabash: Sold as an entree, prices start around $15 for a full platter. Buying frozen and frying at home is cheaper.
In Summary
While both are classic Carolina shrimp dishes, green shrimp and Calabash shrimp differ greatly in terms of flavor, texture, preparation, and origin. Green shrimp highlights the seafood’s natural sweetness thanks to its seasonality and firm texture. Calabash shrimp tempers the briny shrimp flavor with its crispy cornmeal batter for added crunch. Both are delicious ways to enjoy high-quality shrimp!