Snow vs King Crabs – What Every Shopper Needs to Know

Crabs are expensive for all the good reasons. But sometimes, it is difficult to determine a snow crab from a king crab, especially if you don’t buy them that frequently. Tiy should know that these two crabs differ not only in price, but most especially in size, habitat, season, and taste. So before you buy Alaskan King Crab, here’s what you need to know.

Snow Crab vs King Crab

If you are not sure if what you tasted in the past was a snow crab or a king crab, then you have to make sure that you have an idea of it this time before you buy some online. Both of these crab species are known for their flavorful leg meat, they have notable differences that you should be aware of.

• Size and Legs.

One of the major differences between these two crustaceans is their size. The King Crabs are larger. The biggest King Crab can reach up to 20 pounds and measure 5 feet across. The King Crab legs are shorter compared to those of the Snow Crabs.’

• Taste and Texture.

The Snow Crabs got its name from its meat.  When cooked, it turners from red to snowy white. It also has a sweet and briny flavor. It’s fibrous and more firm compared to the king crabs. And when eating it, the Snow crab legs can be easily cracked with your hands.

The Alaskan King crabs on the other hand are known for their distinct rich and sweet flavor. It has a delicately tender texture. But unlike the Snow crabs, it takes effort to reach the most sought-after meat. The shells are thick and have large spikes and you often need a cracking tool.

• Habitat and Season.

Snow Crabs are usually harvested in the North Atlantic and North Pacific oceans. They prefer the deep, cold water conditions. They can also be harvested starting in late fall until early summer. The Alaskan King Crabs on the other hand have very limited habitat and harvesting seasons. They can be found between Alaska and Russia and can only be harvested a few weeks during winter.

• Availability.

Both Snow and King crabs are sustainably managed and harvested. No matter which crab leg type you choose, both are usually sold pre-cooked and frozen. And cooking them is simply just heating them up by steaming, oven-baking, and grilling.

• When it comes to the price, since the Alaskan King Crabs have a short harvesting season and its lobster-like flavor, they are expected to be more expensive. This means that Snow crabs are usually more available between these two so they are less expensive.

Buy Crabs in Florida

Everyone loves crab cakes or when it’s cooked to perfection with a cheese dip. But sure enough, the traditional way of eating it will still win. Dousing snow or king crab legs in butter is still the best. So if you are looking for fresh and top-quality crabs in Hollywood, Florida, then visit Billy’s Stone Crab. They are internationally and locally known to have the best seafood restaurants in South Florida.