It can be surprising when you crack open a crab for the first time, especially when you see the yellow stuff inside the crab.
I remember when I first saw it and I wondered if it eatable.
After some personal research, and plenty of crab dinners later, I learned what the yellow stuff really is and how delicious it is, and also how it is the main part of a crab to eat.
The “yellow stuff" is called hepatopancreas, and it plays a crucial role in the digestion of a crab.
Some people love it for its briny flavor, while others prefer to avoid it.
However, if you have been wondering about the yellow stuff for a while, and whether you should eat it or not, in this post, I will explain to you what yellow stuff inside a crab is and if you should eat it or not.
What’s The Yellow Stuff Inside A Crab?
Let’s go deeper into what that yellow stuff inside a crab really is and whether you should give it a try.
What Is the Yellow Stuff?
That yellow substance you see when you crack open a crab is called the hepatopancreas.
It’s basically the crab’s version of a liver and pancreas combined.
This organ helps the crab digest its food, and in the world of cooks, it’s often referred to as crab mustard.
I remember the first time I saw it, I wasn’t sure if it was eatable or if I should scrub it off.
But after learning more, I realized it’s considered one of the best parts of the crab by many.
Is It Safe to Eat?
Yes, the yellow stuff is generally safe to eat, and in some cultures, it’s one of the best part of the crab.
However, like many seafood-related things, there’s a bit of a catch.
Since the hepatopancreas filters unsafe substances from the water, it can contain toxins if the crab was gotten from polluted waters.
That’s why I always make sure I’m getting my crabs from a reliable, clean source.
When in doubt, it’s perfectly fine to enjoy the rest of the crab and leave the yellow stuff behind.
How Does It Taste?
I’ll admit, the first time I tried the yellow mustard, I wasn’t sure what to expect.
It has a rich, briny flavor that’s a bit more serious with its taste than the meat.
Some people love it because it adds depth to the crab’s taste.
Personally, I have grown to enjoy it in small amounts, especially when mixed with the meat.
If you’re new to it, I’d recommend giving it a taste, start small and see of you like it or not, then you can eat more if you do like it.
Cooking with Crab Mustard
If you’re feeling bold and the mood for something new, there are a few ways to include crab mustard into your cooking.
I have seen people use it in sauces, soups, and even spreads for a seafood-forward flavor.
It’s definitely a more acquired taste, but for those who love the rich style of the sea, it can be a special addition to your dishes.
Just keep in mind, a little goes a long way.
What About Nutritional Value?
Crab mustard is high in fat and cholesterol, which is something to be mindful of if you’re watching your diet.
I tend to treat it as an occasional piece rather than something to eat every time.
That said, it does contain useful omega-3 fatty acids, so it’s not all bad news when it comes to nutrients.
As with anything, a moderate amount is important.
Tools To Make Eating Crabs Easier And More Enjoyable
It is always good to have the proper tools to use to open up a crab and enjoy the meat inside, along with the yellow stuff if that’s what you are really after.
1. Hiware Seafood Cracker Set
When it comes to cracking open crabs, the Hiware Seafood Cracker Set is a game-changer.
I have used this set for a while now, and it makes getting to that delicious crab meat so much easier.
It comes with two strong crackers and four picks, which are perfect for digging out those hard-to-reach pieces.
The crackers are strong but comfortable to use, and the picks are the best for those tiny meats.
I used to struggle with regular kitchen tools, but once I got this set, eating crab became a lot less messy and more enjoyable.
2. OXO Good Grips Seafood Picks
Another handy tool I love is the OXO Good Grips Seafood Picks (Affiliate link).
They have got a soft, non-slip grip that makes it easy to use, even when your hands are wet.
The dual-sided design gives you a narrow fork for bringing out crab meat and a scoop for larger pieces.
I have found these especially useful when I’m dealing with smaller crabs or more softer parts of the shell.
It’s the kind of tool you don’t realize you need until you have it, and then you won’t want to eat crab without it.
Plus, they are dishwasher safe, which is always a bonus for easy cleanup.
Both of these tools have made my crab feasts so much smoother and more fun.
If you love eating crabs but want to avoid the stress, I definitely recommend giving these a try.
Conclusion
In the end, what you do with the yellow stuff inside a crab, if you eat it or skip it is really up to your taste and comfort level.
For some, it’s a delicious part worth enjoying, adding an extra bit of richness to the meal.
For others, sticking to the sweet, tender crab meat is all they need.
Personally, I’ve come to appreciate it in little quantities, but I always make sure my crabs come from clean, trusted places.
Whatever you prefer, the key to enjoying crab is to make the experience your own, whether that’s with trusty seafood tools, like the Hiware Cracker Set or OXO Picks, or just using what you know you like.
Eating crab should be fun and flavorful, and now that you know a bit more about what’s inside, you can eat it with confidence.
