Difference Between Red King Crab And Golden King Crab
King crabs are large crustaceans that are highly sought after for their succulent meat. There are several species of king crabs, but the two most popular types are the red king crab and the golden king crab. While both are delicious, there are several differences between them in terms of size, taste, and availability. In this article, we will explore the differences between red king crab and golden king crab.
Appearance and Size
The red king crab is one of the largest species of crab in the world, with males growing up to 24 pounds and a leg span of up to 5 feet. They have a distinctive reddish-brown color and hard, spiky shells. In contrast, golden king crabs are much smaller, with males growing up to 8 pounds and a leg span of up to 2 feet. They have a golden brown color and a softer shell in comparison to the red king crab.
Taste and Texture
The taste and texture of the meat from red and golden king crabs are quite different. The meat of red king crab is sweet and succulent with a mild and salty flavor. It has a firm texture, and the legs are filled with large chunks of meat that can be easily removed. In contrast, the meat of golden king crab has a more delicate, slightly sweet taste with a softer texture. Golden king crab meat is often compared to snow crab meat, which is also delicate and sweet.
Availability and Price
Red king crab is much more widely available than golden king crab, as they are found in larger numbers and in a wider range of locations. The main areas where red king crab is harvested are Alaska and Russia. In contrast, golden king crab is only found in a few locations, mainly in the Bering Sea and the Aleutian Islands. This makes golden king crab a rarer and more expensive delicacy.
Another factor that contributes to the higher price of golden king crab is the fact that it is more difficult to catch. Golden king crab live in deeper waters and are much more agile than red king crab, which makes them harder to catch. This means that the cost of catching and processing golden king crab is higher, which ultimately leads to a higher price tag.
Conclusion
In conclusion, red king crab and golden king crab are two delicious types of crab that differ in terms of size, taste, availability, and price. While red king crab is more widely available and has a firmer texture and saltier flavor, golden king crab is considered to be a rare and expensive delicacy with a softer, more delicate flavor. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference and budget.