Once they’re taken out of the water, prawns oxidise quickly and blacken around the head and joints. This harmless but unsightly discolouration can be prevented by adding sulphur, freezing, cooking or peeling them. Peeled prawns can be refrigerated for a couple of days.
However the best way I’ve found to store prawns is to place them, unpeeled, in a container of water so that they’re completely covered. Store them like this in the coldest part of the fridge for 2–3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months then thaw overnight in the fridge or in a sink of cold water.
For more details, see the video below which also covers the best way to peel prawns.
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