Your Ultimate Guide to Purchasing King Crab Legs
Whether you’re planning a special dinner or simply want to indulge in a luxurious meal, knowing how to purchase king crab legs is essential. In this guide, Overnight Lobster will explain how to purchase king crab legs, from selecting the best quality to determining the right quantity for your needs. We’ll even show you where to find frozen king crab legs in Maine and beyond.
Procure Responsibly Harvested Crab Meat
When you set out to purchase king crab legs, it’s crucial to consider the source of your seafood. Responsible harvesting practices ensure the long-term sustainability of crab populations and the marine ecosystem.
To obtain responsibly harvested crab meat, start by looking for certifications from organizations like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or Seafood Watch. These certifications indicate that the seafood meets specific environmental standards.
Next, research the origin of the crab legs. Due to strict harvesting regulations, Alaskan king crab is often considered a sustainable choice, as Alaskan crab fishing is well managed, with quotas and monitoring systems in place to prevent overfishing.
Decide on Fresh or Frozen
Fresh king crab legs are prized for offering the best flavor and texture. They provide that straight-from-the-ocean taste seafood enthusiasts crave. However, this quality comes at a price: Fresh crab legs are typically more expensive than their frozen counterparts.
They also have a shorter shelf life, meaning you’ll need to cook and enjoy them soon after purchase. Fresh king crab legs may be harder to find, depending on your location, especially if you’re not near a coastal area.
On the other hand, frozen king crab legs offer several advantages. They are more widely available, making it easier for inland consumers to enjoy this delicacy. You can store frozen crab legs for longer periods, allowing you to purchase them in advance for special occasions.
They’re often less expensive than fresh legs, making them a more budget-friendly option. The main drawback is that frozen crab legs may have a slightly different texture when thawed than fresh ones.
Determine What Size You Want Before You Order
Before purchasing king crab legs, you must decide what size you want. King crab legs come in various sizes, and choosing the right one can impact your dining experience and budget. Here’s what you need to know about king crab leg sizes:
- Colossal: These are the largest and most impressive, typically weighing over 1 pound per leg.
- Jumbo: Slightly smaller than colossal, these are still substantial and impressive.
- Large: A good middle ground, offering a balance of size and value.
- Medium: Smaller legs that are often more affordable and easier to handle.
Acquire the Right Number of Crab Legs
Whether you plan to cook a lobster or crab, figure out how much you need. Determining the right quantity of king crab legs to purchase depends on several factors, such as the number of diners, your budget, and other dishes being served.
As a general rule, plan for 1 to 1.5 pounds of crab legs per person for a main course. If you’re serving crab legs as part of a larger seafood feast or alongside other main dishes, you can reduce this to about half or three-quarters of a pound per person.
Secure the Right Type of Crab Legs
While king crab legs are renowned for their sweet, succulent meat, there are different types to consider when you’re ready to purchase king crab legs:
- Red King Crab: The most prized and expensive variety, known for its rich flavor and large size.
- Blue King Crab: Similar in taste to red king crab but often smaller and less common.
- Golden King Crab: Smaller than red king crab with a milder flavor, often more affordable.
Each type has its unique characteristics, so consider your preferences and budget when making your selection. If you’re new to king crab, you might want to start with the classic red king crab for the quintessential experience.
Buy the Perfect King Crab Legs From Overnight Lobster
We at Overnight Lobster understand the importance of high-quality seafood for your culinary adventures. Whether you’re looking to purchase king crab legs or explore other oceanic delicacies, we’re here to help.
Our commitment to freshness and sustainability ensures you’ll receive the finest king crab available. From selecting the perfect size to determining the right quantity for your needs, we’ve got you covered.
Are you ready to elevate your dining experience? Contact Overnight Lobster at (207) 370-4492 to purchase king crab legs and have them delivered straight to your door anywhere in the USA.
