Finding Delicious King Crab Legs Close To Home

King crab legs are a true delicacy and favorite splurge for seafood lovers. Their sweet, succulent meat has a uniquely rich flavor and texture. While you can find king crab legs at some grocery stores, the quality is not always the best For the freshest, best tasting king crab legs, you’re better off buying them from a reputable fish market or seafood supplier Here’s where to find great king crab legs close to home.

What Makes King Crab So Special

The king crab is the largest species of crab in the world. They are found in the icy cold waters of the Bering Sea off Alaska. King crab legs come from the rear walking legs, which are the largest. Here are a few things that set king crab apart

• Size – King crab legs are thick and meaty, often over a foot long.

• Sweet flavor – The cold climate gives king crab a sweeter taste than other crab.

• Prestige – King crab is seen as a luxury food, commanding higher prices.

• Short season – The king crab harvest is strictly limited, usually from October to January.

Due to small harvests and rising demand, king crab legs are one of the most expensive seafood items. Expect to pay $25 a pound or more for high quality legs.

Where To Buy King Crab Legs Locally

Finding fresh king crab legs close to home can be a challenge depending on where you live. Here are some of your best options:

Fish Markets

Independent fish markets and high-end grocers may carry king crab legs in season. Look for reputable sellers with high turnover to ensure freshness. The legs should be bright red with a shiny, translucent appearance when raw.

Ask exactly when and from where the king crab legs were harvested. Legs marked as Alaskan are your best bet for flavor. Price varies greatly, but expect to pay over $20 a pound.

Seafood Restaurants

Some higher end seafood restaurants sell raw seafood and frozen items for home use. Red Lobster is one national chain that carries king crab legs. Their legs are previously frozen but smaller sizes can be more affordable.

Local crab shacks and steakhouses may offer king crab legs as well. You’ll pay more than at retail but they should be very fresh.

Online Direct From Alaska

To get the freshest king crab direct from Alaskan waters, order online overnight shipment through trusted suppliers like Alaska King Crab. Their legs arrive flash frozen, packaged with dry ice.

Choose your preferred size from large to extra large legs. Overnight shipping ensures your order arrives as close to dock-fresh as possible no matter where you live. Expect to pay premium prices starting around $30 a pound.

What To Look For When Buying King Crab

To pick the best king crab legs, watch for the following:

• Bright red color with translucent white sections visible
• Shiny, glossy exterior with no drying or yellowing
• Solid, dense meat that fills out the shell
• Firm, resilient legs that don’t feel mushy
• Legs that are all intact, not cracked or broken
• Little to no odor when raw

Top grade king crab should be very fresh or properly flash frozen at sea to maintain quality. Avoid any legs with an unpleasant fishy or ammonia smell.

Simple Ways To Prepare King Crab At Home

King crab legs require minimal preparation. They can be steamed, boiled, grilled, or simply cracked open and served chilled with lemon and drawn butter.

Here are a few serving ideas:

• Steam legs 5-8 minutes until bright red and heated through
• Crack legs and serve with melted butter, lemon and garlic aioli
• Toss cracked crab meat with pasta or salad
• Grill legs 2-3 minutes per side and brush with olive oil and herbs
• Chill boiled legs and serve with cocktail sauce and lime wedges

With their spectacular flavor and hearty portions, king crab legs make an impressive restaurant-quality meal you can enjoy at home. Seek out the best quality legs from a trusted local seller or seafood market online. Your tastebuds will thank you.