Imitation crab meat, sometimes called surimi, is a popular seafood product made from minced fish that has been shaped and flavored to resemble real crab meat. While not quite as delicious as genuine crab, high-quality imitation crab still has a pleasant, briny seafood flavor at a fraction of the price. But not all imitation crab is created equal when it comes to taste and texture. The quality can vary tremendously depending on the brand. So where can you find the best imitation crab meat?
After scouring grocery stores, reading online reviews, and personally taste testing the top brands, I’ve discovered the best places to buy delicious, high-quality imitation crab meat. Here are my top recommendations:
Asian Grocery Stores
For the absolute best imitation crab, you can’t beat brands imported directly from Asia. Japanese and Korean grocery stores typically stock a wide selection of imitation crab, both imported and domestic Asian brands. My personal favorite is Osaki Brand imitation crab from Japan. It has a deliciously sweet crab flavor with a pleasantly springy, chewy texture. Other excellent Asian brands to look for include Marutama and Shirakiku.
While these brands can be difficult to find in regular supermarkets, they are worth seeking out at authentic Asian groceries like H Mart, Lotte Mart, 99 Ranch Market, and Jungle Jim’s International Market. Even if you have to drive a bit farther or order online, the unbeatable flavor of brands like Osaki makes it worthwhile.
Specialty Seafood Markets
After Asian markets, my next go-to place for quality imitation crab is specialty seafood stores These retailers pride themselves on providing the freshest and best tasting seafood options I’ve had great luck finding imitation crab legs and flakes at small local fish mongers as well as large chains like Whole Foods Market.
Some of the top brands I recommend looking for at dedicated seafood shops include Trans-Ocean Aquamar, and Dyna Sea. Make sure to ask if they have any imitation crab in stock, since it may not be as prominently displayed as real crab. The knowledgeable staff at these stores can also recommend their highest quality brand.
Online Retailers
If you don’t live near any Asian grocery stores or seafood specialty shops, purchasing imitation crab online is your next best bet. There are several reputable online seafood companies that ship frozen imitation crab nationwide.
Two of my favorites are Catalina Offshore Products and Sea to Table. Their imitation crab legs and chunks are flash frozen at peak freshness to lock in flavor and texture. Thrive Market is another good option with free shipping on your first order. They carry a couple high quality brands like Trans-Ocean.
When ordering seafood online, try to choose overnight shipping and make sure to inspect the product closely upon arrival before freezing or consuming. Reputable companies will guarantee satisfaction with timely refunds and replacements if you are unhappy with your order for any reason.
Warehouse Clubs
For outstanding prices on bulk quantities of imitation crab, warehouse clubs like Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale are worthwhile places to shop. They typically carry major national brands like Chicken of the Sea and Louis Kemp that rank among the better-tasting options widely available in supermarkets.
The crab legs and flake products stocked at warehouse stores are perfect for making crab dip, seafood salads, sushi platters, and other recipes calling for larger amounts of imitation crab. Just be aware that you will have to buy multiple pounds at once, so only shop this route if you can use up large quantities before the sell-by date.
National Brands at Grocery Stores
Lastly, I suggest keeping an eye out for better national brands when shopping at your regular supermarket. While grocery stores tend to have more lower-quality generic imitation crab, you can still find some decent options if you know what to look for.
Some of the more readily available national brands that offer pretty good flavor and texture include Trans-Ocean, Trident Seafoods, Aquamar, and Louis Kemp. Chicken of the Sea is another budget-friendly option that works nicely for crab salads or dip. Always compare ingredients and taste test different brands to determine your local store’s best bet.
With more brands and options now available both online and in stores, there’s no need to settle for subpar imitation crab. Seek out reputable retailers specializing in seafood, choose recommended quality brands, and don’t be afraid to try new sources until you find the imitation crab you love. The right brand can make all the difference in getting delicious faux crab flavor without breaking the bank.
Imitation Crab Near MeBuy your favorite Imitation Crab online with Instacart. Order Imitation Crab from local and national retailers near you and enjoy on-demand, contactless delivery or pickup within 2 hours.
- Turning on notifications for the Instacart app
- Keeping an eye out for text messages and phone calls from your Instacart shopper
- Leaving helpful instructions for parking, gate codes, or other clues to find your home.
- Delivery fees start at $3.99 for same-day orders over $35. Fees vary for one-hour deliveries, club store deliveries, and deliveries under $35.
- Service fees vary and are subject to change based on factors like location and the number and types of items in your cart. Orders containing alcohol have a separate service fee.
- Tipping is optional but encouraged for delivery orders. It’s a great way to show your shopper appreciation and recognition for excellent service. 100% of your tip goes directly to the shopper who delivers your order.
With an optional Instacart+ membership, you can get $0 delivery fee* on every order over $35. *Service fees apply. Instacart pickup cost:
- There may be a “pickup fee” (equivalent to a delivery fee for pickup orders) on your pick up order that is typically $1.99 for non-Instacart+ members. Instacart+ membership waives this like it would a delivery fee.
- Pick up orders have no service fees, regardless of non-Instacart+ or Instacart+ membership.
- Find Best Match: By default, your shopper will use their best judgement to pick a replacement for your item.
- Pick Specific Replacement: You can pick a specific alternative for the shopper to purchase if your first choice is out-of-stock.
- Dont Replace: For items you’d rather not replace, choose “Dont replace” to get a refund if the item is out of stock.
- Missing items
- Incorrect items
- Damaged items
- Poor replacements
- Early/late orders
If an order never came, or you get someone else’s order, you can reach out to Instacart Customer Experience. Yes! You can get Imitation Crab products delivered same-day in as fast as one hour from stores near you using the Instacart app or website.
What’s Really in Imitation Crab? (And How It Compares to the Real Thing)
FAQ
Can you buy imitation crab at the grocery store?
Simple to use. You can find imitation crab in the refrigerated or frozen section of stores. There are several types, including flake-style, chunks, sticks, and shreds. Since imitation crab is precooked, you can use it straight from the package for cold dishes, such as dips and salad, or add it to dishes you heat.
Is it healthy to eat imitation crab meat?
What’s another name for imitation crab meat?
In Japan, imitation crab meat is referred to as kanikama. In the U.S., it is often referred to simply as kani. Imitation crab is a key ingredient in California sushi rolls, along with avocado and cucumber, and is used as a crab substitute in Japanese cuisine.Jan 30, 2024
Can I buy imitation crab at Walmart?
Imitation Crab(9)
Aquamar, Surimi, Leg Style Fresh Imitation Crab , 1- 8 oz. Medium Plastic Bag. 5gr of Protein per serving. Aquamar Surimi, Flake Style Fresh Imitation Crab, 1- 8 oz Medium Plastic Bag.