Difference Between Golden And Red King Crab
If you are a seafood lover, then you must have heard of king crab, which is known for its sweet and succulent meat. However, there are different types of king crab, and two of the most popular ones are the Golden and Red king crab. While these two species may look similar, there are several differences between them that you should know. In this article, we will discuss the distinction between Golden and Red king crab, from their appearance to their taste, and everything in between.
Appearance
The Golden King crab is known for its distinctive golden color, and it has a more elongated body compared to the Red king crab. It also features long, spindly legs and a hard, spiky shell that protects its soft interior. On the other hand, the Red king crab features a deep red shell with a wider, rounder body. Its legs are shorter and thicker than the Golden king crab, and it has a more rounded shell that is covered in sharp spikes.
Source: https://www.alaskaseafood.org/
Source: https://www.alaskaseafood.org/
Location
The Golden king crab is mostly found in the northern part of the Pacific Ocean, particularly in the Aleutian Islands and the Bering Sea. Meanwhile, the Red king crab is found in the same region, but it is also found in other parts of the world, including Norway and Russia.
Size
When it comes to size, the Golden king crab is generally smaller than the Red king crab. The former can grow up to 10 inches in width, while the latter can reach up to 14 inches in width. The Red king crab is also heavier than the Golden king crab, with an average weight of around 6 pounds, compared to the latter's average weight of around 3 pounds.
Taste
Both the Golden and Red king crab have a sweet, succulent taste that is highly sought after by seafood enthusiasts. However, the Red king crab is known to have a slightly sweeter flavor and a more delicate texture than the Golden king crab. Some people describe the Golden king crab's taste as slightly nuttier and brinier compared to the Red king crab, but the difference is subtle and depends on personal preference.
Price
The Red king crab is generally more expensive compared to the Golden king crab, mainly due to its larger size and the fact that it is harvested in more locations. The price of both species also varies depending on the season, demand, and availability.
Harvesting Method
The Golden king crab is mostly harvested using crab pots, which are large cages that are lowered to the seafloor and left for a few days to trap crabs. Meanwhile, the Red king crab is mostly harvested using the "deadliest catch" method, which involves using large boats to catch crabs in the open sea. This method is more dangerous and requires more skill and expertise compared to using crab pots, hence its name.
Conclusion
In summary, the Golden and Red king crab are two different species of crab that have several differences in terms of appearance, location, size, taste, price, and harvesting method. While they may look similar to the untrained eye, seafood enthusiasts can easily tell them apart based on their unique characteristics. Whether you prefer the sweeter taste of the Red king crab or the nuttier taste of the Golden king crab, both species are sure to satisfy your seafood cravings.
