All About the King Crab
If you're a seafood lover, you've probably heard of the king crab. This colossal crustacean is a treasure caught in the Finmark region of Finland and processed manually in Oslo, Norway. This special crab is prized for its succulent meat, unique flavor, and impressive size. But what is a king crab, and why is it so special?
King crab is a type of crab that belongs to the family Lithodidae. There are three main species of king crab: the red king crab, the blue king crab, and the golden king crab. These crustaceans are known for their large size, with some specimens reaching up to 10 kg in weight and 150 cm in length.
King crabs are native to the cold waters and they prefer deep waters, where they can feed on fish, clams, and other crustaceans. King crabs are bottom-dwellers, meaning they live on the ocean floor and hide in crevices and rocky formations.
How to Cook King Crab
King crab is delicious for several reasons. Firstly, it has a unique, sweet and savory flavor that is distinct from other types of seafood. This flavor is due to the king crab's diet, which includes a variety of crustaceans, mollusks, and fish, giving its meat a rich and complex taste.
Secondly, king crab has a succulent and tender texture that melts in your mouth, making it a truly satisfying and enjoyable seafood experience. The meat is also firm which makes it perfect for grilling, roasting, or incorporating into other dishes like soups or salads.
Lastly, king crab is a versatile ingredient that can be prepared in a variety of ways, from simple steaming or boiling to more complex recipes like crab cakes or chowder. This variety of cooking methods allows for a range of flavors and textures, making it easy to incorporate king crab into any cuisine or dish.
Preparing king crab can be intimidating for first-timers, but it's actually quite simple. Here's a step-by-step guide:
- Thaw frozen king crab legs in the refrigerator overnight.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
- Add the crab legs and cook for 4-6 minutes, or until heated through.
- Remove the legs from the water and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Crack the shell with a crab cracker or a pair of scissors.
- Serve with melted butter, lemon wedges, and your favorite side dishes.
King crab can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, grilling king crab legs adds a smoky flavor to the sweet and succulent meat.
King Crab for a Healthy Meal
When it comes to healthy and nutritious seafood options, king crab should definitely be on your list. This delicious crustacean is not only low in calories, but it's also packed with essential nutrients like protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins and minerals.
King crab is a great source of protein, with a 3-ounce serving containing around 15 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, and it also helps keep you feeling full and satisfied after a meal. Despite its rich and indulgent flavor, king crab is surprisingly low in calories and fat. A 3-ounce serving contains only around 70-80 calories and less than 1 gram of fat. This makes it a great option for those watching their weight or trying to maintain a healthy diet.
King crab is also packed with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B12, zinc, and copper. Omega-3s are important for heart health, while vitamin B12 is essential for healthy nerves and red blood cells. Zinc and copper are important for immune function and wound healing.
The king crab is truly a majestic and delicious delicacy. Whether you're grilling it, making crab cakes, or simply enjoying it steamed with butter, there's no denying the unique flavor and succulent meat of this Alaskan treasure.