Grass Shrimp
Crangon franciscorum
Grass Shrimp are tiny, translucent shrimp with sweet, rich flavor and a pleasantly crunchy bite. They’re a local San Francisco Bay specialty, usually cooked and eaten whole, head and shell included, for maximum texture and taste.
Range
San Francisco Bay
Method of Capture
Beam Trawl
Seasonality
Summer
Size Range
1 to 2 inches
Sustainability Consideration:
Grass Shrimp depend on healthy estuaries and wetlands for spawning and nursery habitat. Ongoing restoration work by local groups has helped improve water quality and reclaim marshes in San Francisco Bay, which in turn supports these short-lived shrimp and the many species that rely on them. Monterey Fish treats Grass Shrimp as a small, seasonal local specialty tied closely to the health of the bay.
Flavor & Texture:
- Flavor: Sweet and rich, with clean, local shellfish character
- Texture: Crunchy and delicate when fried or cooked quickly, thanks to the thin, edible shell
Seafood Cooking Tips
Grass Shrimp are best enjoyed in simple, quick preparations:
- Fry whole – Rinse, pat dry, and fry in hot oil until crisp; serve with lemon, salt, and your favorite dipping sauce.
- Snack or garnish – Use as a crunchy bar snack, salad topper, or garnish for noodle and rice dishes.
Because they’re so small, Grass Shrimp cook in just a minute or two—pull them as soon as they’re crisp and golden so they stay sweet and light.
Want This On Your Menu or Table?
For current availability, pricing, and prep ideas, get in touch with our team. We’re happy to help you decide what will work best for your menu or home kitchen.
