King Crab

SEAFOOD

Discovering the King Crab: Cold Waters, Prime Territories, and Seasonal Hunt

Ever wondered about the majestic creature that graces our plates during special occasions? That's the King Crab! A delicacy in many parts of the world, this crustacean is not just delicious but also fascinating.

Imagine a spider, but underwater and much larger. That's the King Crab for you. With long, spindly legs and a hard shell, it's a sight to behold. The body is segmented, and it has a pair of claws, one of which is usually larger than the other.

King Crabs are not just picked up from any ocean floor. There's an art and science to it. The icy waters of the Bering Sea and the northern Pacific, especially around Alaska and Russia, are prime King Crab territories. The colder the water, the better the quality of the crab.

Large cages or "pots" are dropped deep into the ocean, baited to attract the crabs. After a waiting period, these pots are pulled up, hopefully teeming with these crustaceans.

The primary season for catching King Crab, especially in the Bering Sea and waters around Alaska, is in the fall. Specifically, the season for Red King Crab is typically in October, while the season for Blue and Golden King Crab can extend into the early winter months. However, the exact timing and duration of the fishing season can vary based on regulations set by fisheries management to ensure sustainability and prevent overfishing.

How to cook King Crab

The King Crab, with its majestic size and delicious taste, is a seafood lover's dream. However, before you can indulge in its succulent meat, there's the essential task of cleaning and cooking it to perfection. Proper preparation is the key to unlocking the crab's full flavor potential, and with a few expert tips, you can master the art in no time.

Firstly, cleaning the King Crab is a step you shouldn't skip. Begin by placing the crab in the freezer for about an hour; this makes it more manageable. Once it's ready, lay the crab on a flat surface, belly side down. Using a sharp knife, make an incision and lift the apron or the triangular flap on its belly. This will expose the crab's gills, which you'll need to remove. They're not edible and have a bitter taste.

Rinse the crab under cold running water to wash away any residual innards or unwanted particles. It's essential to be thorough in this step to ensure you're only left with the delicious parts of the crab.

Now, onto the cooking! The King Crab's meat is naturally rich and flavorful, so you don't need to do much to make it shine. Steaming is a popular method, as it retains the crab's inherent sweetness. To steam, fill a large pot with about two inches of water and bring it to a boil. Place the cleaned crab or its legs in a steamer basket, ensuring they don't touch the water. Cover and let it steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until the meat is heated through. If you're working with frozen crab legs, you might need a bit more time.

Boiling is another method, a quicker one. Simply immerse the crab or its legs in a pot of boiling water for 4-6 minutes. If you're feeling adventurous, grilling the King Crab can impart a smoky flavor that's truly irresistible. Brush the legs with a mix of melted butter, garlic, and herbs, and grill for about 5 minutes on each side. 

King Crab Recipes from Around the World

The King Crab has found its way into the culinary traditions of various cultures, each adding its unique twist to this seafood delicacy.

Japanese King Crab Tempura

Venturing into the Land of the Rising Sun, the crab meat is lightly battered and deep-fried to golden perfection, resulting in a crunchy exterior that encases the tender crab within. Paired with a dashi-based dipping sauce, this dish is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, embodying the essence of Japanese culinary artistry.

Italian King Crab Risotto

Italy, with its rich culinary heritage, offers a creamy risotto where the King Crab is the star. Carnaroli rice, simmered in a savory broth, absorbs the flavors of saffron, white wine, and fresh herbs. Generous chunks of King Crab meat are folded in, making every bite a creamy, crabby delight.

Thai King Crab Curry

In the aromatic kitchens of Thailand, the King Crab is immersed in a rich, coconut-based curry. Infused with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal, the crab soaks up the spicy and tangy flavors. Served with jasmine rice, this dish is a fragrant and flavorful journey into Southeast Asian culinary traditions.

Mexican King Crab Tacos

Heading to vibrant Mexico, the King Crab gets a zesty makeover. Nestled within soft corn tortillas, the crab meat is seasoned with lime, cilantro, and spicy jalapeños. Topped with a fresh salsa and a drizzle of creamy avocado sauce.