Which Has More Meat Snow Crab Or Dungeness Crab
Crab legs are a popular delicacy for many seafood lovers. Among the most prized crab varieties are the snow crab and the Dungeness crab. Both types of crabs are known for their delicious taste and abundance of meat. However, many people wonder which of the two crabs has more meat.
What are Snow Crabs?
Snow crabs, also known as Chionoecetes opilio, are found in the northern waters of the Pacific and the Atlantic. They have a hard outer shell, spiky legs, and a pinkish-white meat that is popularly served in sushi and other seafood dishes. Snow crabs are harvested mainly from the Alaskan waters, and they are available year-round in the market.
What are Dungeness Crabs?
Dungeness crabs, also known as Metacarcinus magister, are found along the Pacific coast from Alaska to California. They have a hard, reddish-brown shell and sweet meat that is often compared to that of a lobster. Dungeness crabs are harvested mainly from the Pacific Northwest and are available from December to June when they reach maturity.
Meat Comparison of Snow Crab and Dungeness Crab
When it comes to the amount and quality of meat, many seafood enthusiasts have different opinions as both snow and Dungeness crabs are delicious, and similar in their meat yield. Snow crabs are known to have long and slender legs with thin shells, while the Dungeness crabs have larger bodies and thicker shells. The meat yield of snow crabs is often compared to that of King crabs, and it's said to be slightly less meaty than that of the Dungeness crab.
Dungeness crabs have a higher proportion of meat in their body compared to the snow crab. The meat in the Dungeness crab's body is sweet, delicate, and buttery, making it a favorite of many seafood lovers. Dungeness crabs have larger claws, which means more meat than snow crabs, and their meat is easier to extract than that of snow crabs, making eating them less challenging.
Preparation and Cooking Techniques
The preparation and cooking techniques for snow and Dungeness crabs differ. Snow crabs are often boiled, steamed, or roasted with a combination of spices such as garlic, herbs, and butter. They are served with dipping sauces such as mayonnaise, garlic butter, and lemon juice. Dungeness crabs are often boiled or steamed, and their shells are brushed with garlic butter, lemon juice, or olive oil to enhance their flavor. They are usually served with a side of melted butter or a creamy dip.
Which is More Expensive?
The cost of snow and Dungeness crabs often fluctuates based on market demand, seasonality, and supply. However, in general, Dungeness crabs are more expensive than snow crabs. The high cost of Dungeness crabs is attributed to their limited availability in the market and their high demand for their delicious taste.
Conclusion
Both snow and Dungeness crabs are excellent seafood choices, and each crab variety has its unique taste and texture. When it comes to the amount of meat, Dungeness crabs are known to have more meat than snow crabs. However, both crabs are delicious when prepared and cooked correctly. The choice between snow crab and Dungeness crab ultimately boils down to personal preference and budget.
