How Many Prawns Do You Need Per Person?
When buying fresh prawns, most people don't know how much they need. This is especially true if you are used to supermarket prawns, which are often smaller and previously frozen.
This guide gives realistic quantities based on how our prawns are typically used.
As a main course
If prawns are the main event of the meal, a generous portion is important.
- 200 to 250 g per person as a main course
This allows for properly sized portions where the prawns are the focus of the dish, whether grilled, pan fried, or simply cooked and served with minimal garnish.
As part of a larger meal
If prawns are part of a seafood spread or combined with other main elements:
- 150 g per person as part of a shared or multi course meal
This works well for starters, sharing plates, or when prawns are one element among several dishes.
What most customers order
Most customers order around 1 kg.
In practice, this typically serves:
- 4 people generously as a main
- 6 people comfortably as part of a larger meal
This is why 1 kg (2x 500g Packs) has become the most common order size. It gives flexibility and avoids running short.
Shell on, head on
Our prawns are sold shell on and head on. This preserves quality and flavour, but it does mean some weight is shell.
The quantities above already account for this, so there is no need to add extra unless you want leftovers.
When in doubt
If you are unsure, ordering slightly more is usually the better choice. Fresh prawns keep well when handled properly, and leftovers are rarely regretted.
If you would rather buy less and add sides, adjust portions downward accordingly.