Exploring Edible Crab Species in America: Types and Delicious Dishes

When it comes to seafood delicacies, crab holds a special place on the American dining table. The United States boasts a vast coastline that offers a rich variety of crab species, each with its own unique flavor and texture. From the succulent Blue Crab of the Atlantic coast to the sought-after Dungeness Crab of the Pacific Northwest, these crustaceans have become staples in regional cuisines across the country.

In this culinary journey, we will dive into the fascinating world of edible crab species in America. We will introduce you to the most popular types of crabs found along the American coasts, and we’ll explore the delectable dishes that these crabs make possible. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or simply looking to expand your culinary horizons, this exploration of crab varieties and the delicious dishes they inspire will leave you craving a taste of the sea.

List of the 9 Types of Crabs Most Eaten in America

1. Blue Crab (Callinectes sapidus)

The Blue Crab (Callinectes sapidus) is a species of crab commonly found along the Atlantic coast of the United States and in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. It is highly regarded for its sweet and tender meat, making it a prized ingredient in American seafood cuisine.

Blue crabs are known for their distinctive blue-green or olive-colored carapace (the hard, upper shell) and their strong, pointed claws. They are renowned for their versatility in the kitchen and are used in a wide range of dishes, from crab cakes to soups and sandwiches. One of the most famous preparations of blue crab is the “Maryland-style crab cake,” a popular dish that showcases the sweet and succulent flavor of the crab’s meat.

These crabs are also appreciated for their soft-shell stage, which occurs when they molt and shed their hard outer shells. Soft-shell crabs are considered a delicacy and are often breaded and fried whole, creating a crispy and flavorful seafood treat.

The Blue Crab is not only a culinary delight but also a cultural icon, particularly in states like Maryland, where it plays a significant role in local traditions and cuisine. It is a beloved symbol of coastal and seafood-rich regions in the United States.

• Location: Blue crabs are abundant along the Atlantic coast and in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Their habitat ranges from as far north as Nova Scotia, Canada, down to the Gulf of Mexico.
• Meat Type: Blue crab meat is highly sought after for its sweet and tender characteristics. The succulent meat is one of the main reasons why blue crabs are cherished in American cuisine.

Popular Dishes

Blue crabs are versatile and find their way into a multitude of dishes. Some of the most popular dishes that feature blue crab meat include:

• Maryland-Style Crab Cakes: Maryland is renowned for its crab cakes, which are made from a mixture of blue crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, and a blend of seasonings. These crab cakes are typically pan-fried to perfection and served with a side of remoulade or tartar sauce.
• Crab Soup: Blue crab meat adds depth and flavor to a variety of soups, such as Maryland crab soup, she-crab soup, and gumbo. The sweet and tender meat infuses the soup with a delightful taste.
• Soft-Shell Crab Sandwiches: Soft-shell crabs are essentially blue crabs that have shed their hard outer shells. These crabs are breaded and fried whole, making them a crispy and succulent delicacy. They are often served in sandwiches or on a bun with lettuce and a zesty sauce.
• Crab Boil: In regions along the Gulf of Mexico, blue crabs are a key ingredient in crab boils or seafood boils simply cooked in a steamer pot or a deep pan. These flavorful feasts feature an assortment of seafood, corn, potatoes, and a medley of spices and seasonings.

Blue crabs are cherished for their versatility and delightful flavor. They are not only a source of culinary delight but also a cultural emblem, particularly in states like Maryland, where they play a central role in local traditions and cuisine.

2. Dungeness Crab (Metacarcinus magister)

The Dungeness crab (Metacarcinus magister) is a species of crab found along the Pacific Coast of North America, primarily in the cold, pristine waters of the Pacific Ocean. It is especially popular in the Pacific Northwest, including regions like Washington, Oregon, and Northern California. The Dungeness crab is renowned for its delicate and slightly sweet meat, making it a highly sought-after delicacy in the world of seafood.

These crabs are known for their distinctive appearance, with a broad, rounded carapace (the hard upper shell) and tenacious claws. Dungeness crabs are typically brownish or greenish in color, and their large size makes them an excellent choice for those seeking generous portions of crab meat.

Dungeness crab is enjoyed in a variety of culinary preparations, from simple steaming or boiling in the pot to more complex dishes like crab salads, crab bisque, and crab cakes. The crab’s sweet and tender meat is a beloved ingredient in seafood cuisine, and its popularity extends well beyond the Pacific Northwest.

• Location: Dungeness crabs are primarily found along the Pacific Coast of North America, and they are especially popular in the Pacific Northwest, including regions like Washington, Oregon, and Northern California. The Dungeness crab is often associated with the cold, pristine waters of the Pacific.
• Meat Type: Dungeness crab is known for its delicate, slightly sweet meat. The meat is flaky and tender, making it a sought-after delicacy among seafood enthusiasts.

Popular Dishes:

The delightful flavor and texture of Dungeness crab lend themselves to a variety of dishes and preparations. Some of the most popular ways to enjoy Dungeness crab include:

• Steamed or Boiled: Many seafood lovers prefer to savor the natural, sweet flavor of Dungeness crab by simply steaming or boiling the crab and serving it with melted butter or a dipping sauce.
• Crab Salads: Dungeness crab meat is often used in refreshing crab salads. These salads typically feature a combination of crab meat, greens, and a light dressing, allowing the crab’s flavor to shine.
• Crab Bisque: Dungeness crab is a key ingredient in crab bisque, a creamy and flavorful soup. The sweet and tender crab meat adds richness to this classic dish.
• Crab Cakes: Dungeness crab meat is frequently used to make crab cakes. These crab cakes are known for their large, flavorful chunks of crab meat and are often pan-fried or baked.

Dungeness crab’s delicate and slightly sweet meat, coupled with its abundance along the Pacific Coast, has made it a beloved seafood choice in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Whether enjoyed in its purest form through steaming or featured in a variety of dishes, Dungeness crab offers a taste of the sea that’s truly exceptional.

3. Snow Crab (Chionoecetes opilio)

Snow crab is a prized seafood known for its sweet and tender meat. Its availability in both the northern Atlantic and northern Pacific Oceans has made it a popular choice for those seeking the delicate and delightful taste of crab. Whether enjoyed in its simplest form through steaming or featured in a range of dishes, snow crab remains a beloved seafood option.

• Location: Snow crabs (Chionoecetes opilio) are primarily found in the cold waters of the northern Atlantic and northern Pacific Oceans. They inhabit regions such as the Bering Sea and the Gulf of Alaska in the northern Pacific, and the northern Atlantic Ocean off the coasts of eastern Canada, the United States, and Greenland. These crabs thrive in cold, deep waters.
• Meat Type: Snow crab is renowned for its sweet and delicate meat. The crab’s meat is particularly abundant in its legs and claws, and it boasts a slightly flaky texture. The sweet flavor of snow crab meat makes it a sought-after delicacy in the world of seafood.

Popular Dishes

Snow crab is a versatile ingredient enjoyed in a variety of culinary preparations. Some of the most popular ways to savor snow crab include:

• Crab Legs: Snow crab legs are a favorite among seafood enthusiasts. They are often steamed or boiled and served with melted butter or a dipping sauce.
• Crab Clusters: Snow crab clusters, which include a portion of the body and leg, are another common way to enjoy this crab’s meat.
• Crab Salads: The delicate and sweet snow crab meat is frequently used in crab salads, combining the crab meat with greens and a light dressing.
• Crab Cakes: Snow crab meat is a key ingredient in crab cakes. These cakes are typically made by combining crab meat with various binders and seasonings, then pan-frying or baking them.

4. King Crab (Paralithodes camtschaticus and Lithodes aequispinus)

King crab is highly regarded for its large and delectable legs, making it a favorite among seafood enthusiasts. Whether served in its simplest form through steaming or used as a highlight in a variety of dishes, king crab remains a treasured seafood choice for those seeking a premium crab experience.

• Location: King crab, specifically the red king crab (Paralithodes camtschaticus) and the blue king crab (Paralithodes platypus), is predominantly found in the cold waters of the northern Pacific Ocean, with a primary focus on the Bering Sea. The red king crab is the most well-known and sought-after species, while the blue king crab is also valued but less common.
• Meat Type: King crab is celebrated for its large and flavorful legs, which offer some of the most delectable crab meat in the world. The meat is characterized by its sweet and succulent taste, and it has a firm and flaky texture.

Popular Dishes

King crab legs are a prized seafood delicacy and are enjoyed in various culinary creations, including:

• Steamed or Boiled: King crab legs are often steamed or boiled and then served with melted butter or a savory dipping sauce. This preparation method allows the sweet and tender meat to shine.
• Crab Salads: The succulent and flavorful king crab meat is a valuable addition to crab salads, where it combines with fresh vegetables and dressings to create a delightful dish.
• Pasta Dishes: King crab meat is sometimes incorporated into pasta dishes, such as crab linguine or crab Alfredo, to infuse the pasta with its rich flavor.
• Crab Cakes: While less common, king crab meat can also be used to make crab cakes. These crab cakes are typically prepared by mixing crab meat with various binders and seasonings before being pan-fried or baked.

5. Stone Crab (Menippe mercenaria)

Stone crab is a delicacy primarily associated with the culinary scene in Florida, where it is celebrated for its sweet and succulent claw meat. Its sustainable harvesting practices and exquisite flavor have made it a favorite among seafood enthusiasts and a highlight of Florida’s seafood offerings.

One distinctive feature of stone crab harvesting is that only the claws are harvested, and the crabs are returned to the water to regenerate their claws, making stone crab a sustainable seafood choice. The delectable claw meat, known for its sweetness and tenderness, is a prized component in Florida’s culinary scene and a delicacy appreciated by seafood enthusiasts.

• Location: Stone crabs, specifically Menippe mercenaria, are primarily found along the coast of Florida in the United States. The warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean provide the ideal habitat for these crustaceans.
• Meat Type: The stone crab is renowned for its sweet and succulent claw meat. The claws are the main focus when it comes to harvesting stone crabs, as they offer some of the most delectable crab meat available. The meat is known for its tender and delicate texture, as well as its natural sweetness.

Popular Dishes

Stone crab claws are a highly prized seafood delicacy and are commonly served in a few distinct ways:

• Chilled Stone Crab Claws: One of the most popular ways to enjoy stone crab is by serving the claws chilled. After the claws are harvested, they are typically cooked immediately and then rapidly chilled. They are served cold and often accompanied by a tangy mustard sauce, which complements the sweet crab meat.
• Salads: Stone crab meat is occasionally used in salads to provide a luxurious seafood element. When mixed with fresh greens, vegetables, and a flavorful dressing, it adds a touch of elegance to the dish.
• Chowders: Stone crab meat can also be incorporated into seafood chowders, where it contributes its sweet and succulent flavor to the overall richness of the soup.

6. Jonah Crab (Cancer borealis)

Jonah Crab, scientifically known as Cancer borealis, is a species of crab found in the North Atlantic Ocean. These crabs are commonly found along the eastern coast of North America, ranging from North Carolina to Newfoundland. Jonah crab is known for its sweet and flaky meat, making it a popular seafood choice.

The sweet and delicate nature of Jonah crab meat lends itself well to a variety of culinary applications. It is commonly used in dishes like crab cakes, crab salad, and crab-stuffed mushrooms. Jonah crab is highly regarded for its delicious flavor and versatile use in seafood cuisine.

• Location: Jonah crab, scientifically known as Cancer borealis, is commonly found in the North Atlantic Ocean. This crab species inhabits the waters off the eastern coast of North America, ranging from North Carolina to Newfoundland.
• Meat Type: Jonah crab is celebrated for its sweet and flaky meat, which is a delight for seafood enthusiasts. The meat has a slightly sweet flavor and a delicate, flaky texture, making it a versatile and delectable seafood choice.

Popular Dishes

Jonah crab meat is a versatile ingredient in various seafood dishes. Some of the popular ways in which it is enjoyed include:

• Crab Cakes: Jonah crab meat is frequently used in the creation of crab cakes, a beloved dish where the sweet and flaky crab meat is combined with seasonings and breadcrumbs, formed into patties, and then pan-fried to golden perfection.
• Crab Salad: The sweet and delicate nature of Jonah crab meat makes it an ideal addition to crab salads. It is often mixed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a light dressing to create a refreshing and flavorful salad.
• Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms: Jonah crab meat is used to prepare crab-stuffed mushrooms, where the sweet and flaky crab meat is combined with seasonings and often a creamy filling, then stuffed into mushroom caps and baked for a delicious appetizer.

Jonah crab’s sweet and flaky meat makes it a valuable seafood ingredient that adds a touch of luxury to various dishes. Whether used in crab cakes, salads, or stuffed mushrooms, Jonah crab is cherished for its delightful flavor and versatile culinary applications.

7. Rock Crab (Cancer irroratus and Cancer productus)

Rock crab refers to various crab species found along the East Coast and West Coast of North America. These crabs, including species like Cancer irroratus on the East Coast and Cancer productus on the West Coast, are known for their delicious meat.

The meat of rock crab is prized for its flavor and texture, which is often compared to that of Dungeness crab. It offers a delicate sweetness and a slightly firm yet tender texture. Rock crab meat is a versatile ingredient used in a variety of crab dishes, including crab cakes, crab salads, and crab bisque, among others. Its delightful taste and texture make it a sought-after choice for seafood enthusiasts.

• Location: Rock crab, which includes species like Cancer irroratus (East Coast) and Cancer productus (West Coast), can be found along both the East Coast and West Coast of North America. These crabs inhabit coastal waters and are sought after for their delicious meat.
• Meat Type: The meat of rock crab is highly regarded for its flavor and texture, which is often likened to that of Dungeness crab. It offers a delicate sweetness and a slightly firm yet tender texture, making it a prized ingredient in the world of seafood.

Popular Dishes

Rock crab meat is a versatile component in various crab dishes. Some of the popular ways in which it is enjoyed include:

• Crab Cakes: Rock crab meat is frequently used to prepare crab cakes. In this classic dish, the sweet and tender crab meat is combined with seasonings, breadcrumbs, and binders, then formed into patties and pan-fried to perfection.
• Crab Salads: The flavorful and tender rock crab meat is often incorporated into crab salads, enhancing the overall taste and texture. These salads typically feature a blend of crab meat with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a light dressing.
• Various Crab Dishes: Rock crab meat can be used in an array of crab-based dishes, such as crab bisque, crab sandwiches, and crab cocktails. Its delightful flavor and texture make it a sought-after ingredient for crab enthusiasts.

Rock crab, whether from the East Coast or West Coast, offers a delightful meat that is prized for its Dungeness crab-like qualities. Whether used in crab cakes, salads, or a variety of crab-based dishes, rock crab is celebrated for its contribution to the world of seafood cuisine.

8. Sheepshead Crab (Erimacrus isenbeckii)

Sheepshead crab, scientifically known as Erimacrus isenbeckii, is a type of crab found primarily along the East Coast of North America. These crabs inhabit coastal waters and are valued for their sweet and delicate meat. The meat of the sheepshead crab is known for its subtle sweetness and tender texture, making it a desirable ingredient in various seafood dishes. It is often used in the preparation of crab cakes and other seafood recipes, where its sweet and delicate flavor enhances the overall culinary experience. Sheepshead crab is a sought-after seafood ingredient known for its contribution to the delicious flavors of many seafood dishes.

• Location: Sheepshead crab, scientifically known as Erimacrus isenbeckii, is primarily found along the East Coast of North America. These crabs inhabit the coastal waters of the region and are valued for their sweet and delicate meat.
• Meat Type: The meat of the sheepshead crab is highly regarded for its sweet and delicate flavor. It has a subtle sweetness and a tender texture, making it a desirable ingredient in the realm of seafood.

Popular Dishes

Sheepshead crab meat is commonly utilized in a variety of seafood dishes. Some of the popular ways in which it is enjoyed include:

• Crab Cakes: Sheepshead crab meat is often used to prepare crab cakes. In this classic dish, the sweet and delicate crab meat is combined with seasonings, breadcrumbs, and binders, then formed into patties and pan-fried to perfection. The result is a flavorful and tender crab cake.
• Seafood Dishes: Sheepshead crab meat can be incorporated into various seafood dishes, enhancing their overall taste and texture. It pairs well with other seafood ingredients and can be featured in dishes like seafood pasta, crab salads, and more.

Sheepshead crab, with its sweet and delicate meat, is a prized component in the world of seafood. Whether used in crab cakes or other seafood creations, it adds a delightful flavor and texture to the culinary experience.

9. Red Rock Crab (Cancer productus)

Red Rock Crab, scientifically known as Cancer productus, is a species of crab commonly found along the West Coast of North America. These crabs inhabit the coastal waters of the region and are known for their sweet and delicate meat. The meat of the Red Rock Crab shares similarities with that of the Dungeness crab, offering a delightful combination of sweetness and tenderness. It is a popular seafood ingredient used in a variety of dishes, including crab cakes, crab salads, and crab bisque, where its flavorful and tender meat enhances the overall culinary experience. Red Rock Crab is appreciated for its culinary qualities and its contribution to the delicious flavors of many seafood dishes.

• Location: The Red Rock Crab, scientifically known as Cancer productus, is commonly found along the West Coast of North America. These crabs are prevalent in the coastal waters of the region and are known for their sweet and delicate meat.
• Meat Type: The meat of the Red Rock Crab is highly regarded for its sweet and delicate flavor, which is similar to that of the Dungeness crab. It offers a delightful combination of sweetness and tenderness, making it a sought-after ingredient in the realm of seafood.

Popular Dishes

Red Rock Crab meat is a versatile seafood ingredient used in a variety of popular dishes, including:

• Crab Cakes: The sweet and delicate meat of Red Rock Crab is often used in the preparation of crab cakes. In this classic dish, the crab meat is combined with seasonings, breadcrumbs, and binders, then formed into patties and cooked to perfection. This results in flavorful and tender crab cakes.
• Crab Salads: Red Rock Crab meat can be featured in crab salads, where its sweet and delicate flavor complements the fresh vegetables and dressing. These salads are a refreshing and tasty way to enjoy crab meat.
• Crab Bisque: The meat of Red Rock Crab is also used to make crab bisque, a creamy and rich soup that highlights the crab’s sweet and delicate qualities.

Red Rock Crab, with its sweet and delicate meat reminiscent of Dungeness crab, is a valued seafood ingredient. Whether used in crab cakes, salads, bisque, or other dishes, it adds a delightful flavor and texture to the culinary creations of seafood enthusiasts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the diverse and delicious world of edible crab species in America offers a wide array of culinary delights. Each crab species has its unique flavor and texture, making them versatile ingredients in a variety of dishes. From the sweet and tender Blue Crab to the delicate and slightly sweet Dungeness Crab, and the large, flavorful King Crab legs to the succulent claw meat of the Stone Crab, there’s a crab to suit every palate.

Whether you’re savoring classic Maryland-style crab cakes, enjoying a steamed Dungeness crab, or relishing the sweet, buttery goodness of King Crab legs, these crab species provide endless possibilities for seafood enthusiasts. From the East Coast to the West Coast and beyond, these edible crab species are a testament to the rich and delectable seafood traditions that grace American cuisine. So, the next time you’re planning a seafood feast, consider incorporating these delectable crab varieties into your menu and experience the culinary treasures they have to offer.