Food & Receipts

The Ultimate Crustacean: A Rare Delicacy Worth the Hefty Price Tag

Moon crabs are not only a rare delicacy but also a nutritional powerhouse. Discover the fascinating story behind these exotic crustaceans that command a premium price of 500,000 VND per kilogram and learn why they are highly sought-after by connoisseurs and chefs alike.

Administrator

20 July, 2024

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The Moon Crab, a highly rare delicacy native to Phu Quy Island in Binh Thuan, Vietnam, is a sought-after delicacy that has many people intrigued. Not only is the Moon Crab known for its exquisite flavor, but it also boasts a higher nutritional content compared to regular crab species, hence its premium price tag. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of this unique crab.

1What is a Moon Crab?

The Moon Crab, with its scientific name carpilius maculatus, belongs to the carpiliidae family. In Vietnam, this species is predominantly found in the waters surrounding Phu Quy Island in Binh Thuan province, with occasional sightings around Con Dao in Ba Ria-Vung Tau province. They typically dwell at a depth of 10 meters within the coral reefs along the coastal areas.

Moon Crab

As adults, Moon Crabs can grow up to 18 centimeters in length, and their backs are adorned with reddish-brown circular markings. Their backs, resembling a full moon, make them easily detectable in the dark, hence their name.

The meat of the Moon Crab is firmer, more aromatic, and sweeter than that of common crab species, especially during the waxing moon phase. Despite their slow movement, these crabs are a challenge to catch, requiring divers to venture into the coral reefs in the late hours of the night.

Moon Crab meat is firm, aromatic, and sweet

Considered the most precious seafood delicacy on Phu Quy Island, Moon Crabs often require advance reservations and come with a hefty price tag. However, their exceptional flavor and health benefits truly justify the expense.

2Health Benefits

According to the Ba Ria-Vung Tau Electronic Newspaper, the Moon Crab is an excellent source of proteins, minerals, and nutrients that offer a plethora of health benefits. In fact, its protein content rivals that of other protein-rich foods. Here are some of the key nutrients found in Moon Crabs:

Zinc – Improves memory, accelerates skin, hair, and nail regeneration, and supports bone development.
Selenium – Acts as an antioxidant, prevents cancer, protects the heart and nervous system, and boosts immunity.
Magnesium – Helps lower blood pressure, enhances circulation, and maintains water and electrolyte balance.
Iron – Increases focus, treats anemia, and aids in energy release.
Calcium – Regulates bodily functions, aids in vitamin and mineral absorption.
Phosphorus – Prevents memory loss, protects cardiovascular health, prevents skin cancer, and benefits eye health.
Vitamin B12 – Promotes bone growth, strengthens the immune system, and reduces the risk of osteoporosis.

Health benefits of Moon Crab

3Price of Moon Crabs

Due to their rarity, Moon Crabs often require advance orders to secure fresh catches directly from the island. The price of Moon Crabs can vary depending on their size:

Moon Crabs weighing 200-300 grams/crab: 240,000 VND/kg (approximately $10.36/kg)
Moon Crabs weighing 200-700 grams/crab: 370,000 VND/kg (approximately $15.99/kg)

However, during peak demand and scarcity, the price of Moon Crabs can soar to 550,000-600,000 VND/kg (approximately $23.81-$25.92/kg).

Current prices of Moon Crabs

There you have it—a glimpse into the world of the elusive and nutritious Moon Crab. Be sure to share your own experiences with this delicacy if you ever get the chance to indulge in its delights.

Sources: Ba Ria-Vung Tau Electronic Newspaper and Voice of Vietnam (VOV)

Frequently asked questions

The Ultimate Crustacean is a rare and exotic delicacy, known for its unique flavor and texture. It is considered a luxury item due to its high price tag and limited availability.

These rare crustaceans can be found in the depths of the Indian Ocean, specifically off the coast of Mozambique. They thrive in the warm, tropical waters and are carefully harvested by local divers.

What sets this crustacean apart is its size, taste, and texture. It can grow to impressive sizes, with a meaty texture and a sweet, delicate flavor. Its taste has been likened to a cross between lobster and crab, with a hint of sweetness.

Chefs carefully prepare these crustaceans, often grilling or boiling them to preserve their natural flavor. They are then served in a variety of dishes, including salads, pasta, and as a standalone entree. The meat is known for its versatility and can be paired with various ingredients to create gourmet dishes.

The high price tag is due to several factors, including the rarity of the crustacean, the dangerous and labor-intensive harvesting process, and the limited supply. The demand for this delicacy is also high, especially among gourmet chefs and enthusiasts, which drives up the price.

While there are other types of crustaceans available, such as lobster and crab, the Ultimate Crustacean offers a unique taste and experience. However, if you’re looking for a similar flavor profile, lobster or king crab could be considered close alternatives, although they may not have the same size or exact texture.