Difference Between King Crab And Snow Crab Legs
When it comes to seafood, crab legs are a delicacy that many people enjoy. However, there are different types of crabs that produce different types of crab legs. Two of the most popular types of crab legs are King Crab and Snow Crab. While both are delicious, they differ in many ways. In this article, we will discuss the difference between King Crab and Snow Crab Legs.
What is King Crab?
King Crab, also known as Alaskan King Crab, is a type of crab that is found in the waters of Alaska and Russia. King Crab legs are known for their large size and sweet, delicious meat. They are one of the most expensive types of crab legs due to their size and scarcity. King Crab legs can weigh up to 10 pounds each and can measure up to 5 feet in length. They have a reddish-brown color and are covered in spiky hairs.
What is Snow Crab?
Snow Crab, also known as Queen Crab, is a type of crab that is found in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the North Pacific Ocean. Snow Crab legs are known for their delicate flavor and tender meat. They are smaller in size compared to King Crab legs, and their legs are thinner and more spindly. Snow Crab legs have a light, almost white, color and are covered in fine hairs.
Size
One of the most significant differences between King Crab and Snow Crab legs is their size. King Crab legs are much larger than Snow Crab legs. A single King Crab leg can weigh up to 10 pounds, while Snow Crab legs are usually between 4 to 8 inches long and weigh 4 to 8 ounces each. This makes King Crab legs more expensive than Snow Crab legs.
Taste
King Crab legs are known for their sweet, delicate flavor and firm texture. The meat is slightly fibrous and has a slightly salty taste. Snow Crab legs have a more delicate flavor and tender meat. They are slightly sweet and have a clean, fresh taste. Both King Crab and Snow Crab legs are delicious, and the taste is subjective to personal preferences.
Cooking Methods
Another difference between King Crab and Snow Crab legs is how they are cooked. King Crab legs are usually boiled, steamed, or grilled. Snow Crab legs are usually steamed or boiled. Both types of crab legs can also be eaten cold or in a salad.
Price
The price of King Crab legs is significantly higher than the price of Snow Crab legs. This is due to the size of King Crab legs and the fact that they are more challenging to catch. Snow Crab legs are more readily available and are smaller in size, making them less expensive.
Availability
King Crab is only found in the waters of Alaska and Russia, making it less available than Snow Crab, which is found in the Atlantic Ocean and the North Pacific Ocean. Snow Crab is more readily available and can be found in many seafood markets and restaurants throughout the United States.
Conclusion
King Crab and Snow Crab legs are both delicious types of seafood that have unique qualities. King Crab legs are known for their size and delicate flavor, while Snow Crab legs are known for their delicate flavor and tender meat. They differ in many ways, including their size, taste, cooking methods, price, and availability. No matter which type of crab legs you choose, they are both a delicious and healthy addition to any meal.
