Seafood aficionados will agree that when comparing crab, red king crab reigns supreme. While other crab species are still very good, the size and taste of super colossal red king crab legs set them apart. We’ll talk about what makes red king crab special. Specifically, we’ll explain its flavor, forms, and value. By the end, you just might be tempted to order some and try it for yourself – and you can do that with our helpful King crab comparison tool.
To get a sense of the general pricing for red king crab, check out this cost comparison grid. All of these vendors have been vetted for quality and customer service. This means a purchase from any will be a sure bet.
Fresh King Crab Prices
| Company | Price/lb | Minimum Order | Shipping | Order |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Global Seafoods | $35.00 | 5 lbs | $16.20 | |
| Crab Place | $42.29 | 1 lb | $29.95 | |
| Fulton Fish Market | $51.00 | 2 lbs | Free | |
| Seabear Smokehouse | $63.60 | 2.5 lb | $19.99 | |
| Cameron’s Seafood | $65.99 | 3 lbs | $39.99 |
Flavor and Texture
King crab legs boast a delicious flavor profile that is sure to satisfy. King crab meat is characteristically sweet. Sweet does not mean that it is loaded with sugar. Instead, the amino acids present in Alaskan red king crab legs create the sweet taste. King crab meat is also savory and is often described as buttery. This descriptor explains the light but rich finish of crab meat on the palate.
In terms of texture, king crab meat is more tender than other crabs. This means that the meat is not as easily shreddable or stringy. Crab meat is delicate. A comparison to snow crab shows this difference. You will want to be careful cracking into the gnarly shell to make sure you do not damage the goods inside.
Buying Options for Red King Crab Legs
The main option for buying red king crab is legs by the pound. There are various size categories that fishers use to sort the caught red king crab. The crab legs increasingly get larger across the classifications. The largest option is colossal king crab legs. Price per pound for the impressive-sized legs is around $66. Since king crab legs are so big that “small” is not even a size category. Other options available are giant or jumbo legs that sell for around $60 per pound.
In addition to legs, claws and whole king crabs are available. Claws are often bundled when you buy legs. Whole red king crabs are very expensive and only available in limited quantities each season. A surefire showstopper, whole king crabs are certainly magnificent and come with a price tag of up to $400. You can expect the same, high quality experience no matter what form of red king crab you choose to buy.
It is best to buy red king crab when it is in season. The prime months to buy king crab is between the months of October to mid-January. The crab sold during this prime is fresh. Crab sold outside this season will likely be frozen crab.
Worth the Splurge
The price of red king crab legs is the highest among other crab varieties. However, they continue to be a bestseller among seafood choices. Why is this? Put simply: red king crab is the best money can buy. When you pay the extra dollars per pound for the premier red king crab, it always delivers. Purchasing the crab online means that you get the best Alaska has to offer on your doorstep the next day.
The astonishing size of red colossal king crab legs is matched only by its scrumptious taste. You will not want to skimp on king crab legs by buying at the grocery store. Purchasing directly from online suppliers allows you to know exactly how your crab was caught and where it is coming from. This information is essential for ensuring quality. Few meals are as luxe as fresh Alaskan king crab. Keep the preparation simple and serve with melted butter for a delightfully uncomplicated dinner.
Overall, king crab truly is king. No dollar spent on Alaskan king crab from its source is a dollar wasted. Trust us and try it for yourself.
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