Shrimp sizes

Depending on where you live, or where you buy shrimp, labels can be confusing or contradictory. Rather than focusing on size, I like to base my decisions on the number of shrimp in a pound. I’ve listed both the name and number per pound in my recipes, but here’s a helpful reference to help you make decisions when buying shrimp: jumbo (16–20 shrimp per pound) are good for grilling, roasting, simmering, and searing; extra-large (21–25 shrimp per pound) are good for grilling, roasting, and skewers; large (26–30 shrimp per pound) are a good all-purpose size, ideal for salads; medium (31–35 shrimp per pound) work well in stews and fit nicely in a soup spoon.