Atlantic Red Crab Legs Vs Snow Crab Legs
If you are a seafood lover, you might have tasted or heard about the two popular varieties of crab legs - Atlantic red crab legs and snow crab legs. Both varieties of crab legs are well-liked and sought after because of their tender, sweet, and succulent meat. But what are the differences between the Atlantic red crab legs and snow crab legs? Which one is better in terms of taste, texture, and nutrition? Let's find out.
Atlantic Red Crab Legs
The Atlantic red crab is a type of deep-sea crab native to the Atlantic Ocean. The crab has a bright red shell that turns orange when cooked. The meat of the Atlantic red crab is sweet and delicate with a slightly briny flavor. The texture of the meat is firm, yet tender, and has a flaky texture when cooked.
The Atlantic red crab is a popular variety of crab that is mostly caught in the waters off the coast of New England. The crab is relatively small in size, with an average leg span of 10 to 12 inches. Due to its smaller size, the Atlantic red crab legs are usually sold at a higher price than other varieties of crab legs.
Snow Crab Legs
The snow crab is a type of crab found in the cold waters of the North Atlantic and North Pacific oceans. The snow crab has a hard, spiky shell that turns red when cooked. The meat of the snow crab is sweet, delicate, and has a slightly nutty flavor. The texture of the meat is firm and has a chunky texture when cooked.
The snow crab is a popular variety of crab that is mostly caught in the Bering Sea and off the coast of Alaska. The snow crab legs are relatively large, with an average leg span of 15 to 18 inches. Due to its larger size and abundant availability, snow crab legs are usually sold at a lower price than Atlantic red crab legs.
Taste and Texture
When it comes to taste and texture, both varieties of crab legs are delicious and have their unique flavors and texture. The Atlantic red crab legs have a sweet, briny flavor and a flaky texture when cooked. The snow crab legs have a sweet, nutty flavor and a chunky texture when cooked.
However, many seafood enthusiasts prefer the Atlantic red crab legs over the snow crab legs because of their delicate flavor and tenderness. The snow crab legs tend to have a chewier texture and are not as tender as the Atlantic red crab legs.
Nutrition
Both varieties of crab legs are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Crab legs are low in fat and calories, making them an excellent choice for people who are on a healthy diet. However, the nutritional value of crab legs can vary depending on the species and size.
The Atlantic red crab legs are slightly higher in calories and fat than the snow crab legs. However, the Atlantic red crab legs are also higher in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health and reducing inflammation in the body.
Conclusion
Both the Atlantic red crab legs and snow crab legs are delicious and sought after by seafood lovers. While the Atlantic red crab legs have a delicate flavor and tenderness, the snow crab legs have a chunky texture and a slightly nutty flavor. In terms of nutrition, the Atlantic red crab legs are slightly higher in calories and fat, but also richer in Omega-3 fatty acids. Ultimately, the choice between the two varieties of crab legs comes down to personal taste preference and availability.
