Difference Between Red Rock Crab And Dungeness
Crabs are often considered as one of the most popular seafood in the United States. They come in various species, sizes, and flavors, which makes them interesting ingredients to cook with. Two of the most well-known crab varieties in the country are the Red Rock Crab and Dungeness crab. Although they share some similarities, they are also quite different from each other. Let’s take a look at the key characteristics of each species to help you better understand the difference between Red Rock Crab and Dungeness crab.
Appearance
When it comes to their appearance, Red Rock Crabs have a tough, leathery exterior that’s red-orange in color. They have large claws with black tips and white undersides. They also have several sharp spines on their backs, which can be dangerous if not handled correctly. On the other hand, Dungeness crabs are larger in size with a hard, rounded shell. Their shells are usually brownish-green or purple in color. They have two large claws, with one being significantly larger than the other.
Taste and Texture
The taste and texture of Red Rock Crab is considered to be quite sweet and delicate, with a slight nutty flavor. They have a firm, flaky texture that is similar to that of lobster meat. However, they have a higher shell-to-meat ratio, which means that you get less meat per crab. On the other hand, Dungeness crabs have a sweet, delicate flavor that’s often compared to that of snow crab. They have a soft, tender texture that’s easy to chew and digest. Dungeness crab meat is often considered a delicacy and is prized for its sweet, briny flavor.
Fishing Season
The fishing season for Red Rock Crab is usually from late summer to early fall, with the peak season being in September. They are typically caught in rocky areas along the West Coast, from California to Alaska. Dungeness crabs have a longer fishing season, which usually runs from November to June. They are commonly found in the Pacific Ocean, from Alaska to Mexico.
Availability and Cost
Red Rock Crabs are considered less popular than Dungeness, so you may not find them in every seafood restaurant or grocery store. They also have a lower meat-to-shell ratio, which means that they are usually more expensive per pound than Dungeness crabs. Dungeness crabs are more widely available and can be found in most seafood restaurants and grocery stores. As a popular commercial species, Dungeness crabs are also relatively affordable compared to other types of seafood.
Cooking Methods
Both Red Rock Crab and Dungeness crab can be cooked in a variety of ways, including boiling, steaming, grilling, or baking. Red Rock Crabs are often prepared by boiling or steaming and are commonly used in seafood stews or soups. Dungeness crabs are also often boiled or steamed and are commonly served whole, cracked open and cleaned, with a side of clarified butter.
Conclusion
In summary, Red Rock Crab and Dungeness crab are two popular crab varieties that share some similarities, but are also quite different from each other in terms of appearance, taste, texture, fishing season, availability, and cost. Whether you prefer the delicate sweetness of Red Rock Crab or the briny flavor of Dungeness crab, both species are excellent ingredients to cook with and are sure to please seafood lovers.
