Difference Between Snow Crab And Dungeness Crab
Crabs are a delicacy that are enjoyed by many people around the world. Their succulent meat is a great source of nutrition and can be enjoyed in various dishes. Two types of crabs that are commonly found in the United States are Snow Crab and Dungeness Crab. While they may look similar, there are some key differences between the two. In this article, we will discuss the differences between Snow Crab and Dungeness Crab.
What is a Snow Crab?
Snow Crab or Chionoecetes opilio is a type of crab that is found in the northern parts of the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean. They are usually found in colder waters and are caught in the winter months when they are closer to the shore. Snow crabs have long legs and a relatively small body. They have a reddish-brown shell with white spots, and their meat is sweet and succulent.
What is a Dungeness Crab?
Dungeness Crab or Metacarcinus magister is another type of crab that is commonly found in the Pacific Ocean. They are named after the town of Dungeness in Washington state, where they were first harvested. Dungeness crabs have a hard, reddish-brown shell with white spots and can grow up to 10 inches in size. Their meat is sweet and slightly nutty in flavor.
Physical Differences
One of the main differences between Snow Crab and Dungeness Crab is their physical appearance. Snow crabs have a longer body and legs than Dungeness crabs, and they can grow up to 20 inches in size. They have a reddish-brown shell with white spots, and their legs are covered in fine hairs. On the other hand, Dungeness crabs have a wider body and shorter legs than Snow crabs. They can grow up to 10 inches in size, and their shell is also reddish-brown with white spots.
Taste and Texture
Both Snow Crab and Dungeness Crab have sweet and succulent meat, but they differ slightly in taste and texture. Snow crab meat is tender, juicy and has a slightly sweet taste. Dungeness crab meat, on the other hand, is slightly nutty in flavor and has a firmer texture than Snow crab meat.
Availability and Price
When it comes to availability, Snow Crab is more widely available than Dungeness Crab. Snow crab is harvested all year round, but it is most abundant in the winter months when it is closer to the shore. Dungeness crab, on the other hand, is only available from November to June when it is in season. The price of both types of crabs varies depending on the season, location and demand. However, Dungeness Crab is generally more expensive than Snow Crab due to its limited availability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Snow Crab and Dungeness Crab are great sources of nutrition and are enjoyed by many people around the world. While they may look similar, there are some key differences between the two. Snow Crab is larger and has a longer body and legs, while Dungeness Crab has a wider body and shorter legs. Both types of crab have sweet and succulent meat, but Dungeness Crab is slightly nuttier in flavor and has a firmer texture. The availability and price of both types of crabs also vary depending on the season, location and demand. Regardless of which type of crab you choose, they are both delicious and a great addition to any meal.
