Where Can I Buy Lump Crab Meat Near Me? Your Guide to Finding Premium Crab Meat

Crab meat is a delicious and luxurious seafood ingredient that can elevate any dish. Lump crab meat in particular comes from the larger muscle chunks of meat from crabs and is considered the highest grade and quality of crab meat. If you’re looking to make crab cakes, seafood pasta, crab dip, or any other recipes calling for lump crab meat, you’ll want to know the best places to buy premium lump crab near you.

What Exactly is Lump Crab Meat?

Lump crab meat refers to the meat from the body and claws of crabs that is removed in larger, intact pieces or “lumps” It comes from larger crab varieties like blue crab, king crab, snow crab, and Dungeness crab The lumps contain no shell or cartilage and provide sweet, succulent meat that is versatile in cooking applications.

Lump crab meat is considered the highest grade of crab meat compared to claw meat and backfin crab meat. It commands a higher price due to its delicate texture and premium taste. Many discerning cooks and chefs specifically seek out lump crab meat for recipes when they want the best quality and flavor.

Where to Buy Lump Crab Meat

When seeking out lump crab meat to purchase, you’ll want to find sources that offer fresh, high-quality options. Here are some of the best places to buy lump crab meat close to home:

Local Fish Markets and Seafood Shops

Checking out your local fish market or seafood shop is often the best way to find fresh, high-quality lump crab meat. Many seafood specialty stores carry a selection of crab meat options and can ensure the product is fresh. You can often find sustainable, seasonal crab varieties as well.

Grocery Store Fish Counters

The fresh seafood counter at your grocery store is another spot to pick up lump crab meat. Premium chains like Whole Foods, Gelson’s, Bristol Farms, Eataly, and Metropolitan Market often carry fresh crab. Let the fishmonger know you’re looking specifically for lump crab meat.

Online Seafood Companies

For easy home delivery, order lump crab meat from online seafood companies like Seattle Fish Co., Cape Cod Lobster & Seafood Co., Fulton Fish Market, Wild Alaskan Company, and North Coast Seafoods. These companies ship fresh and frozen crab overnight.

Restaurant Suppliers

Restaurant supply stores that sell to food service professionals are another option for lump crab meat. These suppliers cater to chefs and restaurants but many also sell to the public. Head to your local restaurant supply shop or check online sites like WebstaurantStore and Restaurant Depot.

Online Marketplaces

Big online marketplaces like Amazon and Walmart provide the convenience of lump crab meat delivery. Keep in mind that product freshness can vary when buying seafood online through major marketplaces. Stick to expedited shipping from reputable vendors.

Big Box Stores

Large warehouse stores such as Costco, Sam’s Club, BJ’s, and Smart & Final carry frozen crab meat that you can buy in bulk. This can offer savings, though check the quality rating and source information before purchasing.

What to Look for When Buying Lump Crab Meat

To find the best quality lump crab meat, keep the following tips in mind:

• Check the source and origin. Buying U.S. crab varieties like blue crab and Dungeness ensures quality. For king and snow crab, Alaskan is best.

• See the label. Ensure the label states “lump crabmeat” specifically. Some products combine lump with other grades of crab.

• Inspect the color. Lump crabmeat should have a natural white flesh color without discoloration.

• Look for shelf life. The longer the expiration date the better, for freshness.

• Know if it’s pasteurized. This heat process extends shelf life for pre-packaged crab but affects texture slightly.

• Consider sustainability. Choosing MSC-certified sustainable crab helps the environment. Ask your retailer.

• Check prices. Lump crab can range from $15 to $45 per pound based on the specific type. Compare pricing but expect premium.

• See it firsthand. For whole fresh crab or crab packed on-site, inspect visually before purchasing.

Storing Lump Crab Meat Properly

Once purchased, proper storage preserves the quality and shelf life of your premium lump crab meat:

• Store fresh crab meat in the coldest part of your refrigerator at 32-38°F. Use within 2 days for absolute freshness.

• Place crab meat in a shallow airtight container, with moisture-absorbing pads or ice packs for optimal temperature.

• Freeze for longer storage. Flash freeze in portion sizes in freezer bags or airtight containers up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

• Don’t refreeze previously frozen crab meat more than once, as this greatly affects texture.

• Keep cooked crab meat separate from raw seafood to avoid cross-contamination.

Time to Enjoy Delicious Lump Crab Recipes

Now that you know where to source high-quality lump crab meat and how to store it, it’s time to put it to use in your favorite seafood recipes. Any dish can be elevated by the sweet, succulent flavors of lump crab.

Try making crab cakes, crab dip, seafood pasta, crab-stuffed fish, crab salad sandwiches, crab tortellini, or classic crab imperial. The possibilities are endless when you have premium lump crab meat on hand. Just follow your trusted recipe and let the delicate flavor shine through.

So head to your nearest fresh fish market, quality grocer, or online seafood provider and pick up the best lump crab meat you can find. Your discerning palate will thank you, as lump crab is a cut above the rest.