When it comes to seafood, crab legs are considered a true delicacy. They are not only tasty but also rich in nutrients. However, there are different types of crab legs in the market, and it can be challenging to choose the best one. Two famous varieties of crab legs include Dungeness crab legs and snow crab legs. In this article, we will compare the similarities and differences between Dungeness crab legs and snow crab legs and which one is the best pick for you.
Dungeness Crab Legs
Dungeness crabs are typically found on the west coast of North America, from Alaska to Mexico. They are a popular crustacean in restaurants, especially in the Pacific Northwest. Dungeness crab legs have a light and delicate flavor with a slightly sweet taste. They have a firm texture and flaky meat, making them ideal for salads, soups, tacos, and sandwiches.
Dungeness Crab Legs Nutritional Value
A 3.5-ounce serving of Dungeness crab legs yields around 113 calories, 19g protein, 0g fat, 10g carbs, and 1g sugar. They are rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, zinc, copper, and selenium. Dungeness crabs are also a source of omega-3 fatty acids that keep your brain and heart healthy.
Snow Crab Legs
Snow crab legs are caught in the North Atlantic and North Pacific Oceans, including the Bering Sea and around the coast of Greenland. They are famous for their soft and delicately flavored meat. Snow crab legs are easy to crack open and have a salient texture that makes them a popular ingredient in seafood buffets and sushi restaurants.
Snow Crab Legs Nutritional Value
A 3.5-ounce serving of snow crab legs contains approximately 98 calories, 19g protein, 0g fat, 3g carbs, and 0g sugar. Snow crab legs are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B12, selenium, and zinc. They also contain good fats, especially omega-3 fatty acids, which play a crucial role in reducing the risk of heart diseases and are important for brain development.
Dungeness Crab Legs Vs Snow Crab Legs: Comparison Chart
– Flavor: Dungeness crab legs have a sweet, mild flavor while snow crab legs have a delicate flavor.
– Texture: Dungeness crab legs have firm meat and a flaky texture, while snow crab legs are softer.
– Size: Dungeness crab legs are bigger than snow crab legs.
– Nutritional value: Dungeness crab legs contain more calories and carbohydrates than snow crab legs. However, snow crab legs are higher in vitamin C.
Cooking Dungeness Crab Legs and Snow Crab Legs
Whether you are cooking Dungeness crab legs or snow crab legs, it is essential to ensure that they are sufficiently cooked to avoid any risk of foodborne illness. Here are basic recipes for cooking the two types of crab legs:
– Boiling: Fill a large pot with water, add salt and bring it to a boil. Add the crab legs and cook for about six to eight minutes for Dungeness crab legs and three to five minutes for snow crab legs.
– Steaming: Have a steamer basket and add an inch of water plus some spices. Put the crab legs in the basket and steam for about six to eight minutes for Dungeness crab legs and three to five minutes for snow crab legs.
Conclusion
Both Dungeness crab legs and snow crab legs have their unique characteristics and differences. Dungeness crab legs are bigger, have firm meat, and a sweet flavor. Snow crab legs are smaller, with delicate and soft meat. They are both highly nutritious, with a low-fat content and high-quality protein. Ultimately, the choice between Dungeness crab legs and snow crab legs comes down to personal preference and recipe choice. Whatever you pick, remember to cook them correctly to extract their maximum flavor and nutritional value.