Dungeness crab legs are a prized seafood delicacy harvested from the Dungeness crab, a crustacean found in the chilly Pacific Ocean waters along the west coast of North America. With their sweet, succulent meat and rich flavor, Dungeness crab legs are considered a culinary treasure by seafood aficionados.
The Dungeness crab, scientifically known as Metacarcinus magister, is named after the Dungeness Spit on Washington state’s Olympic Peninsula where it is abundantly found. It has an oval-shaped body, asymmetrical claws, and reddish-brown legs.
Adult Dungeness crabs typically measure 6 to 7 inches across at their widest point They prefer sandy or eelgrass habitats in waters ranging from Alaska’s Aleutian Islands down to California’s Santa Barbara coast,
These cold-water crustaceans have a lifespan of 8-13 years. The peak season for Dungeness crab is winter from November through June. By this time of year they have grown to legal harvest size and their shells have hardened enough for capture.
What Makes Dungeness Crab Meat So Special
Dungeness crab meat stands out for its sweet, rich flavor and tender texture. Its legs and claws contain a prized, chunky white meat that is considered more flavorful and juicy compared to other crab varieties.
The taste of Dungeness crab has been described as sweet and buttery, with a subtle nutty undertone. When cooked, the flesh turns opaque white and flakes beautifully. It has a firm yet moist texture that offers a satisfying bite.
Dungeness crab gets its signature flavor from its varied diet of clams, fish, mollusks and other small crustaceans which it scavenges from the seafloor. The cold, clean Pacific Ocean waters also influence its taste profile.
How to Cook and Eat Dungeness Crab Legs
Dungeness crab legs are most commonly prepared by simply steaming or boiling. The legs just need 5 to 8 minutes of steaming to turn opaque and become heated through.
Many seafood lovers prefer to steam the legs instead of boiling to better preserve the delicate flavor and texture of the meat. The cooked legs are often served chilled with melted butter, lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley to enhance their taste.
Other popular ways to enjoy Dungeness crab legs include:
- Cracking the legs and picking out the meat to use in salads, pastas, omelets or crab cakes
- Grilling the legs for a smoky flavor
- Adding to seafood stews and paellas
- Serving in platter with smoked salmon and oysters
- Gently sautéing the meat in garlic butter
The rich-tasting Dungeness crab leg meat also pairs wonderfully with creamy sauces, roasted vegetables, grains, fresh herbs and white wines like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.
Buying and Storing Dungeness Crab Legs
When buying raw Dungeness crab legs, choose legs that are from chilled crabs and feel very cold to the touch. The legs should look moist and shiny, and smell pleasantly briny. Dull, dried out or foul-smelling legs should be avoided.
For the best flavor and texture, cook the crab legs within a day of purchase, as the meat will start deteriorating quickly. Raw legs can be stored in the coldest part of the fridge loosely wrapped in plastic for up to 2 days max.
Cooked Dungeness crab legs will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Frozen legs can be stored for up to 3 months in freezer bags with as much air squeezed out as possible.
The History and Significance of Dungeness Crab
Dungeness crab has been an important food source for native tribes along North America’s west coast for centuries. Traditional harvesting methods included gathering crabs at low tides using wooden hooks and nets.
Commercial fishing of Dungeness crab began in the mid-1800s out of San Francisco bay. It grew into a thriving industry by the early 1900s as demand increased with population growth in California and the Pacific Northwest.
Today, Dungeness crab is intimately tied to the cultural identity and cuisine of coastal communities. Its season signifies celebration, brings families together, and supports livelihoods from California to Alaska.
In 2015, it was officially named the state crustacean of Oregon, acknowledging the crab’s significance to the state’s culture and economy. California also honored the Dungeness crab in 2024 by naming it the official state crustacean.
Sustainability Considerations
Dungeness crab is touted as one of the most sustainable fisheries on the west coast due to strict regulations governing its harvest. Size limits, male-only catch, season closures and pot limits allow crabs to reach maturity and maintain stable populations.
However, threats like habitat loss, marine pollution, and climate change effects impact the future sustainability of the fishery. Supporting well-managed fisheries, reducing plastic pollution, and choosing Ocean Wise recommended Dungeness crab can help protect this treasured seafood source.
So for your next seafood feast, seek out some fresh Dungeness crab legs and experience the rich, succulent flavor that makes this crustacean so legendary on the west coast. Cooked simply and paired with melted butter or lemon, the tender meat is a sublime treat for any shellfish fan.
How to Oven Roast Dungeness Crab
- Preheat your oven to 350°.
- Spread out your crab across a baking sheet.
- Brush your favorite seasoned butter generously over your crab.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes.
- Check the clusters to make sure the meat is warmed to your liking. (Our Dungeness Crab Clusters are pre-cooked, so warm them for as long or as short as you’d like!)
How to Boil Dungeness Crab
- Boil a large pot of water.
- Add a generous amount of salt to the pot, until it tastes briny.
- Slowly, lower your crab into the boil, careful to avoid splashing or overflow.
- Boil your crab for roughly 7 minutes per pound, or until warmed to your liking..
- Use tongs to remove your crab from the boiling water, and drop into ice water; this will stop your crab from overcooking on the inside after the boil.
Snow vs Dungeness Crab Legs – Everything you need to know!!
FAQ
What’s the difference between crab legs and Dungeness crab legs?
Yes, Dungeness crab legs are generally considered meatier than snow crab legs. Dungeness crabs have a broader body and thicker shell, which allows for more meat in their legs. The meat from Dungeness crabs is also known for its sweet, rich flavor and firm texture.
Are Dungeness crab legs good?
Culinary Uses: Dungeness crab legs are highly prized for their succulent meat and are commonly enjoyed steamed, boiled, or grilled. They are often served with melted butter or incorporated into dishes such as crab cakes, salads, risottos, and seafood boils.
Which is better Dungeness crab or snow crab?
If you want a meal with more delicate flavor, Dungeness is your pick. Prefer slightly sweet, firmer meat with easier access? Then snow crab is your go-to.
What is special about Dungeness crab?
Dungeness crab is prized for its sweet, succulent meat and delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s a popular delicacy, particularly on the US West Coast, known for its distinctive flavor, which is often described as a sweet, nutty, and slightly salty taste.