Can You Buy Crab Legs Without The Shell? Everything You Need To Know

Crab legs are a delicious seafood treat that many people love to indulge in. However dealing with the messy and tedious process of cracking open crab shells can be a hassle. So a common question that comes up is – can you buy crab legs without the shell?

The short answer is yes, you can purchase crab legs that have been shelled and cleaned ahead of time. Buying pre-shelled crab legs can save you time and effort in the kitchen. However, there are a few things you should know before buying crab legs without the shell.

What Are The Options For Buying Crab Legs Without The Shell?

There are a couple different options when it comes to buying crab legs that are already shelled

• Frozen crab meat– This is raw crab meat that has been extracted from the shells, packaged, and frozen. It’s commonly sold in plastic bags or vacuum sealed packs. The frozen crab meat can then be thawed and used in recipes like crab cakes, dips, pasta dishes etc.

• Pre-cooked crab legs – Many grocers and seafood markets sell packs of pre-cooked king crab legs or snow crab legs that have already been shelled. These are ready to heat and eat.

• Live crab– Some fish markets and Asian grocery stores sell live crab that you can have shelled in-store. This ensures the freshest crab meat.

• Canned crab meat – Canned crab meat has been pre-cooked and shelled, then sterilized in cans. The texture is not as fresh but the convenience is unbeatable.

What Are The Benefits Of Buying Crab Without The Shell?

There are a few advantages that pre-shelled crab offers:

• Saves time – Having the crab meat already removed from the shell saves tons of time and effort. No need for mallets, crackers, and picks!

• More convenient – The crab is ready to eat or cook. You skip the whole process of boiling, cooling, cracking, and picking.

• Less mess – Pre-shelled crab is neater and easier to eat. No piles of discarded crab shells and debris to clean up.

• Versatile – Crab meat can be used in so many recipes like salads, pasta, sandwiches, dips and more. No need to only eat it by itself.

• Potentially cheaper – Depending on where you buy it, pre-shelled crab can sometimes cost less than whole crab legs per pound.

For people short on time, pre-shelled crab offers a quicker and simpler option while still letting you enjoy tasty crab flavor.

What Should You Look For When Buying Pre-Shelled Crab?

If you opt to purchase crab legs or crab meat that’s already been shelled, here are some tips on what to look for:

• Freshness – Fresh, raw crab meat should have a mild seafood smell and look moist. Avoid any strong “fishy” odors.

• Color – The crab meat should be an opaque white color. Discoloration or yellowing is a sign of age.

• Texture – Premium crab meat is smooth and tender, not mushy. Feel for any cartilaginous pieces.

• Packaging – For frozen crab, the packaging should not be torn or frostbitten. Canned crab should have intact seals.

• Labelling – Check the label for details like product of origin, ingredients, nutritional info, etc.

• Price – Higher quality crab tends to cost more per pound. Make sure the price aligns with your budget.

• Trusted source – Purchase pre-shelled crab from reputable grocery chains, fish markets, or specialty seafood stores.

Taking a few moments to inspect the crab meat will ensure you pick the best quality product.

Are There Any Downsides To Buying Crab Without The Shell?

While pre-shelled crab offers convenience, there are a couple potential drawbacks to consider:

• Loss of freshness – Crab meat that’s been shelled and sitting in packaging won’t be as fresh as crab you cook and shell yourself.

• Shorter shelf life – Shelled crab meat has a shorter shelf life than whole crab legs or live crab. It should be eaten within a day or two.

• Less presentation value – Pre-shelled crab loses that visual appeal of beautiful whole crab legs on the plate.

• Not as tasty – According to some seafood aficionados, the flavor of crab meat diminishes slightly once it’s removed from the shell.

• Potential additives – Some pre-shelled crab products contain preservatives, additives, and added water/broth. Check the ingredients.

• Higher cost per pound – In many cases, buying pre-shelled crab costs more per pound compared to buying whole crab legs.

So while pre-shelled crab has its advantages, there are benefits to cracking crab legs yourself too. It comes down to your priorities and preferences.

How Should You Cook Pre-Shelled Crab Legs?

One of the best parts of buying crab legs without the shell is that they can be prepared very quickly. Here are some easy cooking methods:

• Stovetop – Pre-cooked crab legs just need to be heated up. Saute them in butter for 2-3 minutes until hot.

• Steaming – Place shelled crab legs in a steamer basket over boiling water for 4-5 minutes.

• Grilling – Quickly grill shelled crab legs on high for 1-2 minutes per side to add char.

• Microwave – Microwave pre-cooked crab legs for 1-2 minutes on high until heated through.

• Soups/stews – Add shelled crab meat during the last 5 minutes of cooking soups and stews.

• Salads – Toss gently cooked or canned crab meat into fresh salads.

• Sandwiches – Put crab salad or warmed crab meat on toast or rolls for tasty sandwiches.

With pre-shelled crab, simplicity is key. Avoid overcooking, as the meat can become rubbery. Aim for gently heating through to keep the tender texture.

What Are Some Tasty Ways To Use Crab Meat?

Crab legs without the shell offer versatility in the kitchen. The mild, sweet flavor of crab meat pairs beautifully with so many ingredients. Here are just a few delicious ways to use pre-shelled crab:

• Crab cakes – Combine canned or fresh crab meat with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings for classic crab cakes.

• Crab salad – Toss crab meat with celery, onion, mayo, lemon, and seasonings for a simple salad.

• Crab dip – Mix crab with cream cheese, sour cream, and spices. Serve with crackers or chips.

• Crab pasta – Saute garlic, dice tomatoes, white wine, and crab over linguine for an easy dinner.

• Crab omelette – Make omelettes stuffed with crab meat, cheese, and veggies for a protein-packed breakfast.

• Crab rolls – Stuff warmed crab salad into buttery rolls for a taste of summer.

• Crab pizza – Top baked pizza crusts with crab, tomato sauce, cheese, and fresh herbs.

The sweet flavor of crab meat also complements spicy seasonings and bold ingredients like chili pepper, lime, bacon, avocado and more. Get creative!

Key Takeaways On Buying Crab Without The Shell

• Pre-shelled options like frozen crab meat and pre-cooked crab legs are widely available.

• Benefits include convenience, less mess, and quick preparation.

• Inspect for freshness and quality when purchasing.

• Pre-shelled crab has a shorter shelf life and should be eaten ASAP.