There are over 4500 species of crab in the world. While only a few of these species make it to our plates, dinner tables, menus, and kitchens, it can still be difficult to keep these types of crab and their many diverse characteristics straight. Some of the most common crab varieties include snow crabs, king crabs, and Dungeness crabs. For those interested in a deep dive on Dungeness crab, make sure to check out this blog post from our sister restaurant Crab House. Today we are going to explore snow crab vs king crab and the important distinctions between the two. This post will help you identify which variety best suits your wallet, taste buds, and cooking styles.
Chef Choy says there are three reasons Alaska king crab is so good. First, it’s way bigger than any other crab out there. And yet it’s much more delicate and soft in appearance. It’s loaded with what Chef Choy describes as a “sweetness and meatiness” unlike any other crab meat in the world.
Where does the King Crab come from?
King Crabs are typically found in Alaska and the Bering Sea. Similar to snow crabs, these long legged crustaceans also enjoy the cold water of the northern pacific oceans. Their harvesting season is much shorter than the snow crab and only usually runs from late October to January – and even then can be shortened due to weather.
What are Snow Crabs
Snow crabs are a species of crab that are named for the color of their meat. Fun fact, when Snow crabs are cooked, their bright red crab meat is transformed from red to snowy white, hence the name snow crab. They are also often referred to as the “queen crab” because of their long legs, similar to king crabs. These are typically the most common type of crab or crab legs that you will find in your local supermarket or fish market. The snow crab legs are typically sold in pre-packed clusters.
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FAQ
Is Alaskan king crab the best?
Which country has the best king crab?
Where is the best king crab caught?
Why is king crab more expensive in Alaska?
Are red king crabs in Alaska?
Buy Now! April Rebert holds a young red king crab while scuba diving. King crab are an Alaska icon. They are delicious as well, and insuring they are available for harvest requires careful management. Biologists who oversee king crab in Southeast Alaska waters monitor the big, spiny crabs – and the Alaskans who catch them as well.
Can you eat a king crab in Alaska?
In both cases, only male crab may be taken. Southeast Alaska waters are home to three king crab species: red, blue and golden king crab. Red king crab are the species most often seen and eaten. Red and blue king crab are managed together, golden king crab are managed separately.
Should you go crabbing in Alaska?
King Crabs are among the most sought-after seafood delicacies in the world. Every autumn, locals and tourists alike converge on Alaska’s coastal waters to take part in the king crab fish ing season. If you’ve never gone crabbing and are considering it, here’s a guide to help you make the most of the experience and find the best catch.
Are Alaskan king crabs Big?
Not only are Alaskan king crabs the largest of all king crabs, but they’re also known for having the best flavor. Q: How big do Alaskan king crabs get? On average, king crabs weigh between 6 to 10 pounds. However, they’ve been known to reach up to 20 pounds. Among the three types, golden king crabs tend to be the smallest.