There are only a few things more delicious and flavorful than a crab. The supple texture and mouth-watering taste of crab meat make them a perfect addition to a weekly dinner routine. No wonder people love buying crabs online and devouring them in various forms such as curries, fries and salads.
But before you go online and look up “best seafood delivery near me,” it is worth noting that not every online seafood delivery service that sells seafood online in the UK delivers it fresh. Some even try to pass on stale crabs just to make money. Of course, they do not taste good and eating them can make you sick. That being the case, you should always check the freshness of the crabs that you buy online.
But first… is it even safe to buy seafood online?
Sometimes, people are suspicious of buying seafood online because they are sceptical of the quality and freshness. And that’s fair. However, you have nothing to worry about if you buy your seafood from trusted and professional seafood wholesalers in the UK. In fact, buying from reputed online seafood wholesalers that offer seafood home delivery is a convenient (and often, even a more cost-effective) option for you if you have a busy schedule. You can simply tap on the “order now” button and buy your favourite seafood from the comfort of your home!
All our crab is frozen as soon as it is cooked and ready to eat to ensure its freshness.
Types of Crabs
1. Alaskan King Crab
Alaskan King Crab is renowned for its rich, succulent meat and impressive size. This crab species is often considered the king of all crabs due to its sweet flavor and tender texture, making it a popular choice for special occasions.
2. Atlantic Golden Crab
The Atlantic Golden Crab, found in the deep waters of the Atlantic, boasts a delicate and slightly sweet flavor. Its meat is firmer compared to other crabs, making it ideal for a variety of dishes.
3. Blue Swimmer Crab
Blue Swimmer Crab, also known as the Flower Crab, is favored for its sweet and slightly nutty flavor. The meat is moist and tender, making it a perfect addition to salads and light dishes.
4. Soft Shell Crab
Soft Shell Crabs are Blue Crabs that have recently molted their old exoskeleton and are still soft. They can be eaten whole and are often fried, providing a crunchy exterior with tender meat inside.
5. Stone Crab
Stone Crabs are famous for their large, meaty claws. The meat is sweet and firm, and the crabs are known for their ability to regenerate their claws, which makes them a sustainable seafood choice.
6. Snow Crab
Snow Crab is known for its delicate, sweet flavor and snowy white meat. It’s often used in crab legs, and its meat is easy to extract, making it a favorite for crab lovers.
7. Bairdi Crab
Bairdi Crab, a type of Snow Crab, is prized for its sweet, delicate flavor and slightly firmer texture. It’s often preferred over other crabs due to its larger size and higher meat yield.
8. Dungeness Crab
Dungeness Crab is popular on the West Coast of the United States. It has a sweet, nutty flavor and tender meat, making it a versatile option for a wide range of recipes.
9. English Brown Crab
The English Brown Crab is common in European waters and has a robust flavor with a slightly firmer texture. Its meat is particularly flavorful and works well in rich dishes.
10. Spider Crab
Spider Crab is known for its long, spindly legs and delicate meat. The flavor is slightly sweet and less intense than other crabs, making it suitable for lighter dishes.
11. Peekytoe Crab
Peekytoe Crab, originally a bycatch, has become a gourmet delicacy. Its meat is sweet and delicate, perfect for salads, crab cakes, and light appetizers.
12. Jonah Crab
Jonah Crab is often compared to Dungeness Crab, though its flavor is slightly less sweet. Its firm, flaky meat is ideal for crab cakes and other hearty dishes.
13. Mud Crab
Mud Crab, also known as Mangrove Crab, is popular in Asian cuisine for its rich, savory flavor. The meat is firm and slightly sweet, making it a versatile option for various cooking styles.
Tips for Choosing Crab
When selecting crabs, freshness is key. Look for crabs that are lively and active, as this indicates they are fresh. The shells should be firm, and the crabs should feel heavy for their size, indicating a good amount of meat inside. Always check for any off-putting odors, as fresh crabs should smell like the ocean, not fishy.
How to Clean Crabs
Cleaning crabs properly is essential before cooking. Begin by rinsing the crabs under cold water to remove any dirt and debris. If you’re dealing with live crabs, chill them in the freezer for a few minutes to make them easier to handle. Remove the apron (the small flap on the underside) and pull off the top shell. Discard the gills and internal organs, then rinse the crab thoroughly before cooking.
How to Cook Crabs
Crabs can be cooked in various ways, depending on the type of crab and your personal preference. Popular methods include boiling, steaming, grilling, and baking. For most crabs, boiling or steaming is the simplest way to retain their natural sweetness. Ensure not to overcook them, as this can make the meat tough and rubbery.
How to Eat Crabs?
Eating crabs can be a fun, hands-on experience. After cooking, use a crab cracker or mallet to break open the shells and access the meat. For larger crabs like King or Dungeness, focus on the legs and claws, where most of the meat is. Smaller crabs can be eaten more thoroughly, including the body. Don’t forget to dip the meat in melted butter or your favorite sauce for added flavor.
Storing Crabs
Raw Crabs
Raw crabs should be stored in the coldest part of your refrigerator, ideally between 32°F and 38°F. Keep them in a breathable container, such as a paper bag or a bowl covered with a damp cloth, to ensure they stay alive until you’re ready to cook them. Do not store live crabs in water, as they can drown.
Cooked Crabs
Cooked crabs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To extend their shelf life, you can freeze the cooked meat for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool the crabs quickly after cooking and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing to preserve their flavor and texture.
Seafood delivery in London is on the rise as people are getting used to the ease of receiving fresh seafood at their doorsteps. You can also leverage this service and save the stress of going to the grocery store frequently. Just make sure you know how to check if what you have received is, in fact, fresh!
Why not try our delicious crab, order now. You can call us on 01472 566000 about any of our prodcuts we have available in our store