Exploring Crab Varieties in Singapore

Singapore is renowned for its vibrant and diverse culinary scene, and when it comes to seafood, crabs are the crown jewels of the dining table. Whether you’re a local foodie or a visiting traveller, exploring the world of crab dishes is an absolute must. In this ultimate guide, we’ll take you on a flavorful journey through the most popular crab varieties in Singapore, sharing insights on taste, texture, and where to savour these delectable dishes.

1. Sri Lankan Mud Crab 

Mud crabs are cherished for their sweet and tender meat, making them a staple ingredient in the city’s vibrant seafood culinary scene. Whether you prefer spicy, creamy, or peppery flavours, there’s a mud crab dish to satisfy every palate.

Flavour: Sri Lankan crab is prized for its naturally sweet and delicate flavour. The sweetness of the crab meat is a standout characteristic that many seafood enthusiasts find irresistible. In addition to sweetness, Sri Lankan crab often has subtle umami notes that enhance its overall taste. This umami richness contributes to the depth of flavour in dishes prepared with this crab. While not overly salty, Sri Lankan crab may have a mild brininess that adds to its seafood profile. This brininess pairs well with a variety of seasonings and sauces. 

Texture: The meat is firm and tender, with a delicate flakiness that melts in your mouth.

Appearance: Sri Lankan mud crabs are typically large, with a robust body and strong claws.They have a dark greenish-brown to olive-brown shell, which can vary in colour depending on their age and habitat. The front claws of mud crabs are noticeably larger than their other limbs, giving them a distinctive appearance.

2. Dungeness Crab 

Dungeness crab, while less common in Singapore compared to other crab varieties, has a unique taste and texture that seafood enthusiasts may find appealing. Due to its limited availability, Dungeness crab may be considered a specialty or seasonal item in some Singaporean seafood establishments. It is more commonly featured in seafood restaurants that focus on offering a diverse selection of crab dishes.

Flavour: Dungeness crab is known for its sweet and slightly nutty flavour. The sweetness of the crab meat is one of its defining characteristics and is highly appreciated by those who enjoy a natural sweetness in seafood.

Texture: The meat is flaky and tender, making it ideal for cracking and dipping in butter or enjoying in salads. The taste of Dungeness crab is delicate and mild, making it a versatile ingredient in various culinary preparations. It doesn’t have an overpowering seafood taste, allowing it to pair well with a range of seasonings and sauces. 

Appearance: The carapace (upper shell) of Dungeness crabs typically has a mottled appearance, with a reddish-brown to dark brown colour. The shell may also feature patches of green or grey. Dungeness crabs have large, powerful claws with a reddish-brown colour. The tips of the claws are often black or dark brown.

3. Alaskan King Crab

Alaskan king crab is available in Singapore but is considered a premium seafood item due to its limited availability and high market demand. While it is not native to the region, it is imported and featured in select seafood restaurants and markets.

Flavour: Alaskan king crab is celebrated for its sweet and rich flavour profile. The crab meat has a natural sweetness that is often described as indulgent and slightly buttery. The sweetness of Alaskan king crab meat is one of its defining characteristics, making it a standout in the world of seafood.

Texture: The meat of Alaskan king crab is firm, meaty, and substantial. It has a delightful chewiness that adds to its overall appeal. The crab meat is naturally succulent and juicy, contributing to its tenderness and making it a satisfying choice for seafood lovers. Alaskan king crab meat is typically served in large, flaky chunks. It separates easily from the shell, making it convenient to enjoy.

Appearance: Alaskan king crabs are among the largest crab species in the world. Adults can have a leg span of up to 6 feet (1.8 metres) and weigh several pounds. One of the most noticeable features of the Alaskan king crab is its long, spindly legs. These legs are attached to a robust and elongated body. The legs and body of Alaskan king crabs are typically a bright reddish-orange colour, which is one of their most distinguishing features.

4. Blue Crab 

Whether enjoyed in traditional crab dishes or contemporary creations, blue crab showcases the delicious flavours and textures that make it a beloved ingredient in Singaporean cuisine. Blue crab is also used as a filling for seafood rolls and sushi in Singapore, adding a touch of sweetness to these dishes.

Flavour: Blue crab is known for its sweet and briny flavour, which is appreciated by seafood lovers. Blue crab meat often has a mild umami quality that enhances its flavour profile. The taste of blue crab is often described as fresh and clean, with a pleasant oceanic character that is characteristic of high-quality seafood.

Texture: Blue crab meat is tender, delicate, and has a soft, flaky texture. It is relatively easy to separate from the shell, allowing for convenient enjoyment. The crab meat is naturally moist and juicy, adding to its succulence. It has a pleasing mouthfeel that makes it enjoyable to eat. Due to its tender texture and sweet flavour, blue crab is versatile in culinary applications.

Appearance: The carapace features a blue-green or bluish-grey coloration. This blue hue is particularly vibrant when the crab is alive. The tips of the claws are often olive-green or brownish in colour, which contrasts with the blue or bluish-grey body.

5. Snow Crab 

While not as prevalent as other crab varieties, snow crab’s sweet and delicate taste, along with its tender and flaky texture, can provide a delightful seafood experience for those who appreciate its unique qualities. If you come across snow crab in Singapore, it’s worth giving it a try to savour its sweet and mild flavours and soft, succulent meat.

Flavour: Snow crab meat is celebrated for its sweet and mild flavour profile. It has a natural sweetness that is often likened to a hint of sweetness from the ocean. The taste of snow crab is delicate and clean, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a milder crab flavour without overwhelming brininess or seafood richness.

Texture: Snow crab meat is tender and flaky, with a delicate texture that is easy to separate from the shell. The meat is prized for its soft and pleasant mouthfeel. Snow crab leg meat is particularly sought after for its large, sweet chunks. It is often served as whole crab legs or clusters, making it a visually appealing option.

Appearance: Snow crabs have a coloration that is typically pale and ranges from a creamy white to a light pink or light orange. This coloration helps them blend in with the icy and snowy environments where they are often found. Snow crabs are typically smaller in size compared to some other crab species. Their carapace width can vary, but they are generally smaller and more delicate in appearance.

If you’re looking to enjoy a crab feast from the comfort of your home, Kai Xin crab delivery in Singapore offers a wide variety of crab flavours and seafood dishes for you to indulge in! Fans of black pepper crab, chilli crab, and salted egg crab can enjoy these dishes at home.