Where to Buy Crab Meat Near Me

Crab meat is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in many recipes. From crab cakes to crab dip, having access to fresh, high-quality crab meat is essential for any seafood lover. But finding a reliable source to buy crab meat locally can be a challenge. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about buying crab meat in your area.

Types of Crab Meat

There are a few main types of crab meat you’ll encounter when shopping:

• Lump crab meat – This refers to whole chunks of crab meat from the body and claws, Lump crab is the most prized type for its texture and flavor

• Jumbo lump crab meat – As the name suggests, these are larger, intact chunks from the body and claws. Jumbo lump commands the highest price for its superior quality.

• Backfin crab meat – Backfin is shredded body meat, not as luscious as lump but still tasty. It’s less expensive and good for dishes where texture isn’t as important.

• Claw crab meat – This is meat picked from the crab’s claws. It shreds more easily than body meat.

• Special crab meat – This refers to a mix of lump and claw meat It provides an affordable alternative when you need mostly lump

Where to Buy Live Crabs

The absolute freshest crab meat comes straight from the crab itself. Some stores sell live crabs so you can pick your own meat. Here are some places to find live crabs in your area:

• Asian supermarkets – Many Asian grocers, especially Chinese and Vietnamese markets, stock live Dungeness, blue crabs, and other varieties. Check the seafood section or ask a clerk.

• Seafood markets – Local fish markets and dedicated seafood stores are a good bet for finding live crab. Give them a call to check availability and pricing.

• Fishermen’s wharfs – If you live near coastal fishing ports, the wharf is often the best place to buy seafood straight from the source. You can likely find fishermen selling fresh-caught crabs.

• Specialty food stores – Some higher-end grocers like Whole Foods sell live crabs seasonally. Look for tanks near the seafood counter.

• Direct from fishermen – If you can locate crab fishermen in your area, they may sell directly to the public when in season. This nets you uber-fresh crab.

Where to Buy Fresh Crab Meat

Picking your own crabs is time-consuming. For pre-picked crab meat, try these local options:

• Seafood counters at grocery stores – Check the refrigerated seafood case at nice grocery stores. Many stock fresh containers of various crab meats from their fishmongers.

• Fish markets – Local fish shops are another go-to for fresh crab, either pre-packed or from their seafood counter. Let them know if you need a certain type of crab.

• Independent crab packaging facilities – Some small operations focus solely on cooking, picking, and packaging crab meat to sell wholesale or direct to consumers. See if any exist in your region.

• Online seafood companies – Many companies sell fresh crab overnight nationwide. Just be aware of shipping costs. Make sure ice packs are included.

• Fishermen – Similar to live crab, sometimes fishermen will sell picked meat as well. It doesn’t get any fresher than this.

Where to Buy Frozen Crab Meat

Frozen crab can deliver tasty results too. Freezing prevents spoilage so companies can prep and freeze the meat right on the boat. Here are sources for frozen crab:

• Grocery store freezers – Check freezer aisles for plastic tubs of frozen lump or backfin crab meat, usually pasteurized. This provides a quick, convenient option.

• Big box stores – Warehouse retailers like Costco and BJ’s sometimes carry large frozen crab meat packs at competitive prices.

• Mail order seafood – Online companies ship frozen crab overnight with ice packs. This opens up access to premium grades of meat.

• Online marketplaces – Sites like eBay and Etsy have sellers offering frozen crab meat shipped on dry ice. Read reviews and shop smart.

What to Look for When Buying Crab Meat

To find the best crab meat, keep these tips in mind:

• Look for crystals of ice in fresh crab meat, signaling it’s ultra fresh. Avoid meat sitting in liquid.

• Frozen meat should be solidly frozen, not mushy. It should be tightly sealed in plastic.

• Whole chunks of lump crab should be pearly white. Discoloring or yellow bits mean oxidation has occurred.

• Smell the crab meat. It should have a clean, briny aroma, never fishy or ammonia-like.

• For live crabs, look for bright color, firmly attached legs and claws, and liveliness.

• Ask trusted fishmongers for recommendations on high quality, sustainable crab sources.

How Much Does Crab Meat Cost?

Crab meat is one of the pricier seafood options since picking it is time and labor intensive. Here are some average prices:

• Live Dungeness or blue crabs: $8-$15 per pound

• Fresh lump crab meat: $25-$40+ per pound

• Fresh backfin or claw meat: $12-$18 per pound

• Frozen lump crab: $16-$30 per pound

• Frozen backfin: $8-$15 per pound

Of course prices vary regionally and by season. Live crabs and fresh crab meat are most economical during peak harvesting times like winter months.

Storing and Handling Crab Meat

Proper storage preserves freshness and shelf life for crab meat:

• Cook live crabs the same day purchased. Refrigerate up to 2 days if needed.

• Store fresh crab meat on ice or in coldest part of refrigerator. Use within 4 days.

• Frozen crab meat stays fresh up to 9 months in a 0°F freezer. Thaw overnight in fridge before using.

• Once thawed, use crab meat within 2-3 days and don’t refreeze.

• Rinse thawed crab gently before use – don’t soak it as that dilutes flavor.

• Avoid any discolored or odor-emitting meat. When in doubt, throw it out.

Time to Enjoy Delicious Crab Dishes!

Now that you know where to source crab meat and what to look for, it’s time to start enjoying this sweet, succulent seafood! From classics like Maryland crab cakes to creative crab-stuffed fish, the possibilities are endless. Just take care not to overcook the delicate meat. Sourcing fresh, sustainable crab meat is important too. With these tips, you’ll be able to find and prepare amazing crab for your recipes anytime. Enjoy!