Can You Eat Hermit Crabs? Exploring the Edibility and Flavor of These Unique Crustaceans

With thousands of edible species in our oceans hermit crabs don’t usually come to mind as dinner. These small crustaceans are better known as low-maintenance pets. But hermit crabs are occasionally eaten in certain cultures. So what does hermit crab taste like? And is it actually safe to eat them?

What are Hermit Crabs?

Hermit crabs are small marine crustaceans with soft, spiral-shaped abdomens They lack a hard protective shell, unlike crabs. So hermit crabs take up residence in discarded seashells or casings to protect their vulnerable hindbodies. Their front claws allow them to capably cling to their mobile shelters.

There are over 1,000 species of hermit crabs worldwide occupying tropical shallows and shorelines. Common varieties include the Caribbean hermit crab, Hawaiian red reef hermit crab, and Ecuadorian hermit crab.

While hermit crabs make engaging pets, some cultures do occasionally harvest and eat them. The largest hermit crab species can have an leg span around 12 inches.

Is It Safe to Eat Hermit Crabs?

Yes, hermit crabs are safe to eat when thoroughly cooked. Their meat contains no inherent toxins.

However, like any seafood, raw hermit crab does pose a risk of transmitting foodborne illnesses if undercooked. So proper storage and preparation are vital.

Potential health risks from consuming raw or undercooked hermit crab include

• Norovirus
• Vibriosis
• Salmonella
• E. coli

Thorough cooking to an internal temperature of at least 145°F kills any dangerous bacteria present. Proper refrigeration before cooking also helps guard against illness.

What Does Hermit Crab Taste Like?

Those who have tried cooked hermit crab meat describe the flavor as sweet and delicate, comparing it to crab, shrimp or lobster. The meat has a slightly bouncy texture and cooks up snowy white in color.

Hermit crabs boast a mild, slightly briny taste of the sea, without being overly fishy or strong. The small amount of meat from an individual hermit crab is tender and juicy when steamed, boiled or grilled.

How to Cook Fresh Hermit Crabs

To prepare live hermit crabs:

• Rinse thoroughly under running water.
• Twist off the top shell to access the abdomen.
• Pull out the body meat in one piece.
• Remove and discard organs, gills and residual shell pieces.
• Rinse the extracted meat again.
• Pat dry with paper towels before cooking.

Recommended cooking methods:

• Boiling – Drop into rapidly boiling salty water for 10-15 minutes.

• Steaming – Place in a steamer basket over boiling water for 5-10 minutes.

• Grilling – Cook approximately 2-3 minutes per side on a hot grill.

• Stir-frying – Stir-fry briefly in a hot pan with oil, garlic, spices and veggies.

Hermit crab meat can be swapped into any seafood recipe, like crab cakes, seafood pasta, or coconut curry. Just cook thoroughly to eliminate risks.

Eating Hermit Crabs in Different Cultures

Hermit crabs are eaten by humans in several regions around the world:

• In Indonesia, robber crabs and coconut crabs are a popular delicacy, often grilled.

• The Caribbean islands cook up local hermit crab species as a rare seasonal treat.

• In Hawaii, hermit crabs are occasionally eaten after roasting over an open fire.

• On Australia’s Christmas Island, hermit crabs are an important traditional food, stewed in curry.

• In South America, especially Ecuador, hermit crabs supplement local diets and provide an income source.

While not the most common seafood globally, cultures near hermit crab habitats do prize them as a tasty local delicacy. Their delicate sweetness makes them a special seasonal meal.

So while hermit crabs may be petite and uncommon table fare, they can make a flavorsome and sustainable meal if cooked thoroughly. Give them a try if you come across fresh hermit crabs from a reputable source. You may just find a new favorite crustacean!