5/6/2023 0 Comments Blue crab legsCrabs caught shortly after molting are lighter and have less meat, but the shells are softer and easier to pick.While there are many different crabs species, the Blue Crab is distinct in its bright blue coloring legs. It's best to get crabs just before they molt, as they will be heavier and contain more meat. Females also have red tips at the end of their blue claws. Male crabs have a long pointy apron down the center while females have a larger, wider apron with a small pointed tip at the bottom. You can tell the difference between a male crab and female crab by flipping them on their backs and looking at the apron. Jimmies can grow bigger than sooks, so they're meatier and perfect for feasting. Male crabs, known as Jimmies, are what you will find throughout the Chesapeake region. But that since that roe has the potential to turn into more crabs, sooks are not the most sustainable option. Some say the females are sweeter than male crabs, and some have roe, or eggs, attached which is a prized delicacy and an important part of she crab soup. It does not matter if your crabs are male or female, but some states, like Maryland, protect the female crabs, also called sooks, and therefore they're not legal to catch and keep. If you're avoiding alcohol for any reason, substitute a non alcoholic beer or just plain water instead. Beer - National Bohemian or "Natty Bo" is traditional in Baltimore, but any basic light beer is ideal.Avoid balsamic or anything with a lot of flavor. Plain white vinegar is all you need here, but if you don't have any, white or red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar is fine. Vinegar - Vinegar adds amazing flavor to the crabs, but it also helps soften the shells and make them easier to pick.In Maryland, it's common to see homemade Old Bay seasoning or Old Bay that's been doctored up with added sea salt, mustard powder and red chili flakes. It's a mixture of celery seed, cayenne pepper and other spices that give the crabs that iconic Chesapeake flavor. Old Bay Seasoning - Aside from the crabs, Old Bay is the most essential ingredient for making Maryland Style crabs.
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