Are you a crab lover? Do you know the three most important traits of each crab leg variety? Learn about the key characteristics of crab leg that should inform your crab purchase. Characteristics from the taste profile to shell-to-meat ratio to texture - here is everything you need to know in preparation for your next delicious crab leg feast. 

Taste Comparison

  • King Crab: King Crab meat is known for its rich, sweet flavor with a hint of saltiness. The meat is succulent and firm, making it a popular choice to pair with butter.
  • Snow Crab: Snow Crab meat offers a delicate and slightly sweet flavor with a subtle salty taste. The meat is tender and flaky, making it a great option for a wide range of seafood recipes.

    Shell-to-Meat Ratio Comparison

    • King Crab: King Crab Legs have the highest meat-to-shell ratio, ranging from 60% to 75%, depending on the crab. Due to their jumbo size, King Crabs are known for the generous amount of meat each leg may have.
    • Snow Crab: The meat-to-shell ratio in Snow Crab is lower than King Crab and ranges around 20-30% of their weight in meat, depending on the cluster size. Our Bairdie species’ Snow Crab is the largest snow crab variety, with 12-14 oz clusters!
    • Dungeness Crab: The meat-to-shell ratio in Dungeness Crab is comparatively lower than other types, roughly 14% to 22% of their weight in meat depending on the size of the crab. This crab species is loaded with Vitamin B-12 and omega 3’s.

    Texture Comparison

    • King Crab Legs: King Crab Legs have firm, succulent meat that is slightly chewy.
    • Snow Crab: Snow Crab Clusters have a tender and flaky texture.
    • Dungeness Crab: Dungeness Crab Clusters feature moist, tender meat that is slightly firmer than Snow Crab.
       

      While you can’t go wrong with any crab legs, it is best to know the taste, texture, and shell-to-meat ratio of each crab species to ensure your cravings are satisfied every time. Shop our Alaskan King Crab, Snow Crab, and Dungeness Crab collections now and get to cooking!

      king crab, snow crab, and Dungeness crab

      *Sources: Crabbing HubCheftalk ForumsAlaska Department of Fish and Game

      FAQs

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