Top 7 Most Expensive Crabs To Eat

Indulging in exquisite seafood experiences has long been a luxury enjoyed by those with discerning palates and deep pockets. When it comes to expensive crabs, a few varieties stand out as culinary treasures that command high prices due to their rarity, flavor, and the intricate process involved in catching or harvesting them.

These exquisite crustaceans, often sought after for their rarity, unique flavors, and the craftsmanship involved in procuring them, stand as a testament to the intersection of gastronomy and luxury.

ADVERT

 

From the icy depths of the ocean to the bustling markets of coastal towns, these high-priced treasures command attention not just for their taste, but for the journey they take from the sea to the plate.

Here we would like to share with you the top 7 most expensive crabs in the world that you can experience.

7. Coconut Crabs (~$35)

Residing on remote islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, these colossal arthropods combine an extraordinary appearance with a reputation for rarity, making them a sought-after culinary treasure.

Feasting primarily on fallen fruits, including coconuts, these crabs possess a unique taste that echoes their tropical habitat. The flavor profile is a subtle blend of sweetness and savory undertones, a reflection of their island diet.

These crabs are elusive and nocturnal, which makes the process of capturing them labor-intensive and requires a keen understanding of their habits. This species however is under threat according to the IUCN and that quickly raises its values even more.

6. Dungeness Crab (~$40)

Native to the waters along the western coast of North America, this crab species has carved a niche as an epitome of coastal indulgence. Unlike other crabs, the process of consuming a Dungeness Crab involves the art of cracking open the shell to unveil the treasure within.

The habitat of these crabs encompasses zones adjacent to the shoreline, characterized by the presence of sand or mud intermingled with eelgrass beds and various submerged vegetation.

The premium price of Dungeness Crab is not merely a reflection of its taste but also the entire process that brings it to the table. A typical meal of Dungeness Crab will cost you upward of $40 or even more.

5. Stone Crab (>$70)

Sourced from the coastal waters of the southeastern United States, this crustacean not only tantalizes taste buds but also showcases a model of resource management that adds to its allure.

Its claws, the prized culinary element, yield a delicate, sweet meat that's both flavorful and tender. Unlike other crab varieties where the entire crab is harvested, with Stone Crabs, only the claws are taken. This method, known as "clawing," ensures the crab can regenerate its claws, allowing it to continue living and thriving in its natural habitat.

ADVERT

The state of Florida is among the biggest producers of these stone crab claws and with tight regulations in place, it is not surprising to see some restaurants charging more than $70 for a plate.

4. Alaskan Red King Crab (Up to $180)

Hailing from the frigid waters of the Bering Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, this majestic crustacean embodies a culinary journey that is as daring as it is exquisite. Distinguished by its imposing size and vibrant red hue, the Alaskan Red King Crab makes an immediate impression. 

Its robust legs and intricate carapace are merely an introduction to the gastronomic masterpiece that lies beneath. The meat, delicate and sweet, possesses a firm texture that makes it a delight to both the palate and the senses.

Its price tag reflects the formidable challenges faced by fishermen and the limited supply due to responsible and sustainable fishing practices. With that being said, an Alaskan Red King Crab that weighs around 2 pounds can cost up to $180 to taste.

3. Crystal Crabs (~$300)

Credit: Oceanic Trading

The name "Crystal Crab" itself evokes a sense of rarity and purity, and rightly so. These crabs are sourced from some of the most untouched aquatic habitats, where the water's clarity and purity contribute to their unique characteristics.

Expert crabbers embark on daring expeditions to gather these elusive creatures, navigating challenging environments to secure their prized catch. The fragility of the crabs requires careful handling, as their exquisite appearance is mirrored by the fragility of their structure.

Crystal Crabs are often found along the western coast of Australia and with such a high rarity, Crystal Crab can fetch a price of $300 each. This makes it one of the most expensive crabs in the world.

2. Giant Spider Crab (Up to $12,000)

The Giant Spider Crab, an awe-inspiring denizen of the deep, has solidified its place as an esteemed and expensive culinary delight. Hailing from the coastal waters of Japan, this colossal arthropod is not only known for its intimidating appearance but also for its exquisite taste.

ADVERT

A delicacy in Japanese cuisine, this crab offers a unique and delicate taste profile that tantalizes the palate with its subtly sweet and briny notes. Considering one of the biggest crabs in the world, this crustacean monster is highly prized as a collector's item as well.

One cool specimen fetched a hefty price tag of $12,000 in a Christie's auction in 2014.

1. Snow Crabs (Up to $46,000)

Snow crabs, a coveted treasure of the frigid North Atlantic and North Pacific oceans, reign as one of the most sought-after delicacies in the realm of seafood extravagance. Their appearance is characterized by spindly legs and an impressive reddish-brown carapace that boasts an intricate pattern.

The snow crab's legs, rich in tender, sweet meat, are meticulously processed and carefully packed to preserve their pristine quality. The limited supply, coupled with the demand for this premium delicacy, contributes to its exclusivity in the culinary world.

Enthusiasts are prepared to spend substantial sums to acquire the initial crab of the season, with a single Snow crab fetching an astonishing $46,000 in 2019.

Source:

• hmetro

Also read: Top 7 Most Expensive Steaks In The World