For someone who is new to buying or catching crabs, it is hard to tell when a crab is hollow or when a crab is full of meat, the shells can have our regular eyes confused.
It is easy to buy a bunch of crabs, get home, cook them, then crack open a crab and find it disappointingly empty, this can be very frustrating and annoying when it happens, so it is best to know how to tell a meaty crab different from a hollow one.
However, there are a couple of ways to avoid this from happening, I learned a few tricks to avoid that frustration and annoyance, and In this post, I’ll be sharing those tips with you.
How To Tell If A Crab Is Hollow Or Full Of Meat
So, I'll show you how to tell whether a crab is hollow or packed with meat.
These simple methods can help you choose a full, meaty crab every time, so you can make the most out of your seafood meals, without worrying about taking home empty shells.
Let’s get started shall we.
1. Weight Test
One of the easiest ways to tell if a crab is full of meat is to feel its weight.
When I pick up a crab, I always compare its weight to another one of a similar size.
A heavier crab usually means it’s packed with meat, while a lighter one could be hollow.
I learned this trick after being disappointed one too many times.
Now, I trust my hands to help me find the best crabs at the market.
2. Shell Firmness
Another trick that works well for me is checking the thickness of the shell.
If the shell feels strong when you press down on it, the crab is more likely to be full.
A softer shell can tell you that the crab recently molted, and those crabs happen to be hollow or have less meat.
I use my thumb to gently press on the back of the crab, if it feels solid, it’s usually a good pick.
3. Look at the Bottom Shell
The underside of the crab, known as the apron, can also tell you a lot.
I have found that a dark or discolored bottom shell often means that the crab is mature and has more meat inside.
While the opposite is a bright or light-colored bottom shell, which can mean the crab hasn’t filled out yet.
This is a small detail, but it makes a big difference in avoiding hollow crabs.
4. Sound Test
This one might sound a bit odd, but it works.
I tap the shell lightly with my knuckles and listen to the sound.
A hollow crab tends to have a more echo-like, hollow sound, while a full crab will sound denser.
This method took me some time to get the hang of, but after a few tries, I could tell the difference.
It’s worth giving it a shot if you want to be very sure that the crab is meaty or hollow.
5. Seasonal Timing
I have also learned that the time of year makes a difference.
Crabs are usually fuller right before they molt, which means they are storing up a lot of meat.
I try to buy crabs during peak season, which varies depending on where you live.
For me, this has been the best way to make sure I’m getting a crab that’s full of meat instead of one that’s mostly shell.
Items That Make Choosing & Eating Crabs Easier.
Eating crabs can get messy, especially when you don’t have the right items to use.
So here are two important items that make choosing and eating crabs easier, I always make use of them whenever I’m buying and having a crab feast.
1. Stainless Steel Crab Gauge
One tool that’s helped me is a stainless steel crab gauge.
It makes measuring the size of a crab quick and easy, making sure you pick one that’s mature and has had enough time to fill out.
It’s durable, easy to carry, and gives you confidence when choosing crabs.
You should always go along with it when buying crabs, and it’s a small investment that can make a big difference.
2. Seafood Crackers and Picks Set
Once you have got a full crab, you’ll need the right tools to get the meat out.
I use a seafood cracker and picks set, it makes cracking the shells and getting to every bit of meat much easier.
This set is strong and helps make the whole process cleaner and less frustrating.
It’s something I always use, and it’s definitely worth having in your kitchen for any seafood lover.
Conclusion
Knowing how to tell whether a crab is hollow or full of meat can save you a lot of disappointment and make your seafood experience much more satisfying.
By using these simple tips, checking the weight, shell firmness, and bottom color, or even giving the crab a tap, you can choose the best crabs with confidence.
Using that knowledge with the right tools, like a crab gauge or a seafood cracker set, makes the entire process easier.
Next time you are at the market, take a moment to test these methods, you’ll end up with a crab that’s packed with delicious meat, and ready to enjoy.
