How to Choose Crabs and Clams with High Meat Content

1. How to Choose Fresh and Meaty Crabs and Clams

Buy Crabs and Clams with Small Aprons

– To ensure you choose crabs and clams with more meat, opt for those with small aprons in the shape of the letter Y. The ones with small aprons are male crabs and clams, while the ones with large aprons are female crabs and clams.

– Female crabs and clams with large aprons, covering the entire lower part, usually have more shells and less meat. Male crabs, on the other hand, have more meat compared to female crabs and clams of the same weight.

– Additionally, you can also press on the apron of the crab or clam with your hand to choose the ones that are firm and meaty. If it feels soft, it means it has less meat and is not as delicious. However, if the apron of the crab or clam is firm, it indicates that it has more meat and the meat is very firm and delicious.

Avoid Buying Crabs and Clams in the Middle of the Lunar Month

– To ensure you purchase crabs and clams with a lot of meat, firmness, and deliciousness, it is advised to buy them at the beginning or end of the month. This is because the quality of crab and clam meat greatly depends on the water season.

– The middle of the month is the time when crabs and clams shed their shells, so they tend to eat less and have less meat, which affects their taste negatively.

How to Choose Crabs and Clams with Firm Meat

– When selecting crabs and clams, opt for live ones with aprons still firmly attached to their bodies. Additionally, the legs and claws of the crabs and clams should move flexibly to indicate that they are still alive and fresh.

– Another tip is to observe the spikes on the legs and the top shell of the crab and clam, as they should still be intact. This signifies that the crab and clam are fresh and have firm meat.

– It is recommended to buy crabs and clams at fishing grounds or reputable seafood shops, supermarkets, or other reliable sources to ensure the quality and deliciousness of the meat without compromising your health.

How to Preserve Fresh and Live Crabs and Clams

– To ensure the freshness and quality of the meat, refrain from storing crabs and clams in direct contact with ice. Freezing them can affect the freshness of the crab meat.

– Instead, place the crabs in a container and add some kelp and diluted saltwater or seawater to keep them fresh for longer. Avoid flooding the crab’s face with water! Alternatively, you can soak them in seawater, cover them, and store them in a cool place.

– For long-distance transportation, it is advisable to pack the crabs in a styrofoam box to maintain their freshness.

2. Delicious Dishes Made from Crabs and Clams

– Banh canh with clams is a standout dish with its beautiful red color from the clams and shrimp, and the sweet and refreshing broth made from bones creating an attractive bowl of banh canh.

– Steamed clams with beer is a simple and delicious way to enjoy their sweet and fragrant meat when dipped in salt and pepper.

– Another popular steamed dish that retains the original sweetness of the crab meat is enjoyed when dipped in salt and pepper or chili salt.

– Banh xeo with crab meat is loved by many people, especially children. The delicious and sweet crab meat combined with rich spices creates a fragrant dish suitable for both breakfast and dinner.

We hope that these tips will help you select crabs and clams with firm meat to prepare many delicious dishes. Good luck!