BC spot prawns

In 2011 Rod and I discovered that BC spot prawns are abundant on Vancouver Island. We made some when we visited in July 2011 and decided then that when we returned to Nanoose for Christmas with Rod's family that we'd have to enjoy them again.

Spot prawns are the largest of the seven commercial species of shrimp found in Canada's west coast waters. The prawns body colour is usually reddish brown or orange with white horizontal bars on the carapace (shell) and distinctive white spots on the first and fifth abdominal segments. While large females can exceed 23 cm (9 inches) in total length, the restricted carapace (shell) size limit for harvest is 33 mm (1 1/3 inch) long. The spot prawn is known for its sweet, delicate flavour and firm texture.


Rod and Byron peeling four dozen spot prawns for our Christmas Eve dinner

All ready for the chef! These prawns are red when raw.