We get a lot of 下 (xiā), shrimp and 明虾 (míng xiā), prawns round these parts although usually I have no idea what precise species they are. Neither do the vendors; instead they use local or personal names for them which vary from market stall to stall.
Recently however, I’ve noticed a rise in the frequency of seeing this one I can identify. 罗氏虾 (luó shì xiā), Macrobrachium rosenbergii, giant river prawn or giant freshwater prawn. I’m told it’s also known as cherabin in Australia.
Native to a band from India across SE Asia to Northern Australia, it has been introduced in tropical and semi-tropical areas across Africa and the Americas as well as here in China.
These babies can grow to an astonishing 30 cm / 12 inches long and weigh up to 500 grams each. However they are generally sold at a maximum of half that.
Sold live, as usual. Prices vary by size, of course, but I expect to pay about ¥92 or $13 USD / 500 grams.
