Many families have a fondness for cua cốm due to its delicious flavor and nutritional value. But how much do you know about cua cốm? What dishes can be created using this nutritious seafood? Let’s explore what cua cốm is and how to select fresh and flavorful cua cốm.
1 What is cua cốm?
Cua cốm, also known as cua lột or cua 2 da, is a rare type of crab. It stands out for its exceptional flavor, making it one of the most sought-after crab varieties in the seafood market today. Cua cốm has a thin inner shell, while the outer shell is more brittle and easier to crack. Furthermore, cua cốm contains more meat compared to regular crabs, with a light yellow hue and a distinct aroma that is rich and fragrant, without being greasy.
The name “cua lột” comes from the molting process that these crabs undergo to mature and transform into soft-shell crabs.
2 How to choose fresh cua cốm
When selecting fresh cua cốm, it is crucial to examine their outer shell. Normally, the shell is hard and firm due to the presence of chitin, calcium, and lime. However, when it’s time to molt, the shell becomes more brittle. This process typically lasts 1-2 days, and you can identify it by checking for any cracks in the shell.
Moreover, fresh and delectable cua cốm features small orange or yellow spots on its thin outer shell. Additionally, make sure to choose crabs that are still alive, with movable legs and claws, to ensure their freshness. Firmness can also be tested by pressing the apron of the crab.
Another way to differentiate cua cốm from ordinary crabs is by examining the apron. Cua cốm typically has a layer of red or pink hair, while regular crabs have white hair.
Furthermore, cua cốm has firm meat and less water content, making it an ideal ingredient for delightful dishes such as grilling, steaming, and more.
3 Where to buy cua cốm? How much is 1kg?
To purchase cua cốm, you have various options, including specialty seafood stores where you can inspect the quality and source of the crabs. Furthermore, you can find cua cốm at markets and reputable online trading platforms.
The price of cua cốm ranges from 650,000 – 800,000 VND/kg
4 Delicious dishes from cua cốm
Cua cốm is a nutritious ingredient that can be used to prepare a variety of delightful dishes. You can showcase your culinary skills by making dishes like stir-fried cua cốm with salt, where the crab is fried to a crisp with a savory and fragrant aroma. If you prefer steamed seafood, you can try making steamed cua cốm with beer. The aroma of beer blends perfectly with the sweetness of the crab meat, making the dish even more enticing.
Another interesting choice is cua cốm stir-fried with tamarind, where the sweet and sour taste of tamarind complements the sweetness of cua cốm. For a more aromatic and exotic flavor, give steamed cua cốm with coconut water a try. The sweetness of coconut water combines with the distinct seafood aroma, creating a wonderful highlight for the dish.
In addition, cua cốm soup is a rich and comforting dish, perfect for rainy days. The crab meat is combined with various ingredients to create a unique flavor.
This article has provided information about cua cốm, including what it is and how to select fresh and flavorful cua cốm. We hope it inspires you to create new and nutritious dishes for your family.