Crabs are not just a culinary delight but also a symbol of luxury and indulgence in many cultures. From the rarest species to those found in specific regions, the world of expensive crabs is a fascinating one. Here, we delve into the 18 most expensive crabs in the world, showcasing their uniqueness, culinary appeal, and why they command such high prices.
Yamato Crabs (Macrocheira kaempferi)
The Yamato Crab, also known as the Japanese Spider Crab, stands out for its immense size and striking appearance. Found primarily in the waters around Japan, these crabs can weigh over 40 pounds, with a leg span of up to 12 feet. Due to their rarity and impressive size, a single Yamato Crab can command prices exceeding $3,000 in specialty seafood markets.
Alaskan King Crab (Paralithodes camtschaticus)
Alaskan King Crabs are renowned for their large size and succulent, sweet meat. These crabs, harvested in the frigid waters of Alaska, can weigh up to 25 pounds each, with their meaty legs being the most coveted part. Prices for Alaskan King Crab legs typically range from $50 to $100 per pound, making them a premium choice for seafood connoisseurs.
Empress Crab (Portunus pelagicus)
The Empress Crab, native to the Indian and Pacific Oceans, is prized for its delicate flavor and tender flesh. These crabs, also known as flower crabs, are typically smaller in size compared to some other species but are highly valued for their culinary appeal. Empress Crabs can cost between $100 to $150 per pound due to their limited availability outside certain regions.
Red King Crab (Paralithodes camtschaticus)
Red King Crabs, originating from the Bering Sea, are known for their vibrant red color and sweet, juicy meat. These crabs can weigh up to 10 pounds each, with their meaty legs being a favorite among seafood lovers. Prices for Red King Crabs range from $30 to $50 per pound, reflecting their popularity and limited fishing areas.
Horsehair Crab (Erimacrus isenbeckii)
The Horsehair Crab, found in the waters of Japan and Russia, is recognizable by the long, hair-like structures on its shell. Despite their smaller size compared to some other crab species, Horsehair Crabs are prized for their sweet, delicate meat. Prices for these crabs can range from $50 to $80 per pound, making them a luxurious addition to Japanese cuisine.
Dungeness Crab (Metacarcinus magister)
Dungeness Crabs, native to the West Coast of North America, are known for their sweet, tender meat and distinctive flavor. These crabs are typically harvested during specific seasons, with prices ranging from $20 to $40 per pound depending on factors such as freshness and demand.
Snow Crab (Chionoecetes opilio)
Snow Crabs, thriving in the cold waters of the North Atlantic and North Pacific, are prized for their delicate, sweet meat. These crabs, known for their long legs filled with succulent meat, can cost between $30 to $50 per pound due to their scarcity in certain regions and high demand in seafood markets.
Blue Swimmer Crab (Portunus armatus)
Blue Swimmer Crabs, widely distributed in the Indo-Pacific region, are esteemed for their sweet, succulent meat and versatility in various culinary preparations. These crabs can range from $15 to $30 per pound, offering a luxurious seafood option that’s relatively accessible compared to some other premium varieties.
Golden King Crab (Lithodes aequispinus)
Golden King Crabs, inhabiting the deep waters of Alaska, are prized for their large size and flavorful meat. These crabs can weigh over 15 pounds each, with prices ranging from $50 to $80 per pound due to their limited availability and the challenging conditions of their habitat.
Red Rock Crab (Cancer productus)
Red Rock Crabs, native to the Pacific Coast of North America, are valued for their sweet, tender meat and versatility in cooking. These crabs are priced between $15 to $25 per pound, making them a relatively accessible luxury in seafood markets.
Hairy Crab (Eriocheir sinensis)
Hairy Crabs, also known as Chinese Mitten Crabs, are highly prized in Chinese cuisine for their rich, buttery meat and unique flavor. During their peak season, prices for Hairy Crabs can range from $50 to $100 per pound, making them a sought-after delicacy.
Blue Crab (Callinectes sapidus)
Blue Crabs, native to the Atlantic Coast of the United States, are esteemed for their sweet, succulent meat and versatility in culinary dishes. Prices for Blue Crabs range from $5 to $10 per pound, offering a more affordable luxury option.
European Spider Crab (Maja squinado)
European Spider Crabs, found in the northeastern Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, are valued for their tender, flavorful meat and unique appearance. These crabs can cost between $30 to $50 per pound, reflecting their limited availability outside certain regions.
14. Red Sea Crab (Portunus pelagicus)
Red Sea Crabs, native to the Indian Ocean and Red Sea, are prized for their sweet, delicate meat and versatility in cooking. Prices for Red Sea Crabs can range from $50 to $80 per pound due to their limited availability outside specific regions.
King Crab (Lithodes maja)
King Crabs, known for their large size and tender, flavorful meat, can range from $30 to $50 per pound. These crabs are popular in seafood cuisine and are harvested from the cold waters of the North Atlantic.
Mud Crab (Scylla serrata)
Mud Crabs, widely distributed in the Indo-Pacific region, are esteemed for their sweet, succulent meat and versatility in cooking. Prices for Mud Crabs can vary between $20 to $40 per pound, depending on factors such as demand and seasonality.
Red Frog Crab (Cancer ranina)
Red Frog Crabs, found in the Indo-Pacific region, are prized for their tender, flavorful meat and unique appearance. These crabs can cost between $30 to $50 per pound due to their scarcity and culinary appeal.
Mitten Crab (Eriocheir sinensis)
Mitten Crabs, also known as Chinese Hairy Crabs, are seasonal delicacies highly valued for their rich, buttery meat. Prices for Mitten Crabs can range from $20 to $40 per pound during their peak season, reflecting their limited availability and high demand.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org
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