Where to Buy Delicious Alaskan King Crab Legs

Alaskan king crab is one of the most prized seafood delicacies. With its sweet, succulent meat and huge claws, it’s no wonder this crab is so popular. But where can you buy high-quality Alaskan king crab legs? Here are some of the best places to purchase delicious king crab straight from the icy waters of Alaska.

Online Seafood Retailers

One of the most convenient ways to buy Alaskan king crab is through online seafood retailers that ship directly to your door. Companies like Alaskan King Crab Co, Maine Lobster Now, and Great Alaska Seafood offer fresh-caught king crab overnight shipped in insulating coolers with dry ice to keep it frozen

The crab is sustainably wild-caught in Alaska and flash-frozen at peak freshness to lock in sweetness and texture Reputable companies like these have direct partnerships with Alaskan fishermen, processors, and cold storage facilities to provide premium king crab.

When you order online, you can select from a variety of options like legs, claws, lump meat, and combos. For special occasions, go for the extra-large Super Colossal legs weighing over a pound each. Or choose smaller legs and add king crab meat for crab cakes.

The convenience of overnight shipping right to your door makes online seafood companies a top choice for Alaskan king crab

Local Seafood Markets

Another great option is buying directly from local seafood markets, particularly in coastal areas. Look for premium fish markets and high-end grocers that carry quality seafood. The best will get regular shipments of fresh-frozen Alaskan king crab from reputable suppliers.

When you buy in person, you can inspect the crab legs for size, color, and texture. Look for a vibrant red-orange shell, firm meat, and a fresh sea smell – not fishy or ammonia-like odors. Legs should be chilled, not thawed.

Ask the fishmonger when the crab arrived and where it was caught. Opt for king crab from Alaska, which is regulated for sustainability. And go for the largest legs your budget allows – over 1⁄2 pound or more.

Buying king crab from a trusted local fish market gives you the ability to choose your seafood first-hand. Stop by on the day of your feast for the freshest crab.

Warehouse Clubs

For bargain hunters, warehouse clubs like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s often carry king crab legs while they’re in season. You can find legs sold individually or in multi-pound bulk packs. The crab is previously frozen but high quality.

Check the label to verify Alaskan origin and confirm sizing. Costco, for instance, sells both 1⁄2 pound legs and extra-large 11⁄4 pound legs under their Kirkland Signature label when in stock.

The crab legs are pre-split for convenience. While not as fresh as online seafood or local fish markets, warehouse clubs offer solid value for this coveted seafood.

Alaska Seafood Direct from Fishermen

For the freshest Alaskan king crab, you can order directly from Alaskan fishermen during crab season. Small operations will custom catch, process, freeze, and ship the king crab overnight to your location.

Contact Alaskan fishing towns like Kodiak, Nome, Dutch Harbor, Sitka, and Juneau to find independent fishermen selling crab. Make sure to ask about sizing, sourcing, freezing methods, and shipping costs.

Getting king crab direct from Alaskan fishermen means supporting small business while enjoying the highest quality. The crab will be ultra-fresh since it’s often frozen on the boat and shipped immediately after the catch.

Factors to Consider When Buying Alaskan King Crab

No matter where you purchase Alaskan king crab, keep these key factors in mind:

• Origin: Authentic king crab comes from Alaska or the Bering Sea. Look for verification of Alaskan origin.

• Freshness: It should arrive frozen or properly thawed if selling fresh. There should be no off odors.

• Size: Bigger legs mean more meat. Opt for 1⁄2 pound or larger sized legs.

• Sustainability: Alaskan king crab is regulated by quotas for sustainability. Verify responsible sourcing.

• Shipping: Overnight shipping with ice packs or dry ice keeps king crab freshest.

• Price: Expect to pay a premium for this delicacy. Bulk buys offer better value.

How to Prepare Alaskan King Crab at Home

Once you’ve sourced your premium Alaskan king crab, here are some tips for preparing it:

• Thaw legs in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Cook immediately after thawing.

• Use kitchen shears or a mallet to split legs and expose meat. Remove spine and smaller legs.

• Steam legs 5-8 minutes until opaque. Do not overcook.

• Crack shells with crab crackers or mallets to access tender meat.

• Dip in melted butter, lemon juice, garlic sauce, or your favorite seasoning.

• Pick out lumps of sweet crabmeat with forks, skewers, or fingers.

• Add king crab meat to pasta, risottos, salads, or enjoy on its own.

• Save shells to make stock for chowders, bisques, and other recipes.

With its reputation for sweetness and tender meat, Alaskan king crab is a real treat. Now you know where to source the best king crab legs and how to prepare them. From online seafood companies to local fish markets, make your next feast unforgettable with delicious Alaskan king crab!

The average price of Alaskan king crab legs and claws typically ranges from $30 to $60 per pound, depending on factors like size, quality, and where it’s purchased.