The Difference Between King Crab And Snow Crab
Crab meat is one of the most highly sought-after seafood delicacies in the world. It has a tender and sweet flavor that makes it irresistible to seafood lovers. Two of the most popular types of crab meat are king crab and snow crab. While they may look similar at first glance, they are actually quite distinct. In this article, we will explore the differences between king crab and snow crab in detail.
What is a King Crab?
King crab, also known as Alaskan king crab or the red king crab, is a species that is native to the Bering Sea. They have large and robust bodies with long legs and a spiny shell. They can weigh up to 24 pounds and have a leg span of up to six feet. The meat from the king crab is white and has a sweet and succulent flavor.
What is a Snow Crab?
Snow crab, also known as queen crab or opilio crab, is a type of crab that is found in the North Atlantic and North Pacific oceans. They have a smaller and more delicate body with shorter legs and a smoother shell. They typically weigh between 2 and 4 pounds with a leg span of up to 3 feet. The meat from the snow crab is white and has a slightly sweet and delicate flavor.
Physical Differences
The physical differences between king crab and snow crab are quite noticeable. King crabs have a larger and more robust body with longer and thicker legs. They also have a spiny shell that is reddish-brown in color. Snow crabs, on the other hand, have a smaller and more delicate body with shorter and thinner legs. Their shell is smoother and ranges in color from brown to greenish-brown.
Taste and Texture
The taste and texture of king crab and snow crab are also quite distinct. King crab meat is white and has a sweet and succulent flavor. It is firm and meaty with a slightly chewy texture. Snow crab meat, on the other hand, is also white in color but has a slightly sweet and delicate flavor. It is more flaky and tender than king crab meat.
Availability and Price
King crab and snow crab are both considered to be delicacies and are therefore more expensive than other types of seafood. However, king crab is generally considered to be more expensive than snow crab due to its larger size and higher demand. King crab is also less widely available due to the fact that it is caught in colder and more remote waters.
Conclusion
In summary, both king crab and snow crab are delicious and highly sought-after seafood delicacies. While they may look similar at first glance, they are actually quite distinct in terms of physical appearance, taste, and texture. King crab is generally considered to be more robust and meaty with a sweeter flavor, while snow crab is more delicate and flaky with a slightly sweeter and more delicate flavor. Regardless of which type of crab you choose, you can be sure that you are in for a delicious seafood treat!
