Welcome to the season of hairy crabs! If you're a seafood lover, then you're in for a treat. This time of year marks the peak of hairy crab season in China and other parts of Asia. These crabs are a highly sought-after delicacy due to their sweet, delicate flesh and prized roe.
Hairy crab season typically runs from late September up to the beginning of early December. The crabs originated as a delicacy among the Shanghainese community but have gained popularity in Hong Kong, Singapore, and other Chinese communities as well.
Crabs caught from Yang Cheng Lake are the most prized due to the high-quality water in the lake. If you're lucky enough to get your hands on one of these crabs, you're in for a real culinary treat.
If you're curious to learn more about hairy crab season and the culinary delights that come with it, then keep reading. In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about this seasonal delicacy and answer some frequently asked questions. From where to find the best hairy crabs to tips on how to pick them, we've got you covered.
Key Takeaways
- Hairy crab season runs from late September to early December and is a highly sought-after delicacy in China and other parts of Asia.
- Yang Cheng Lake is known for producing the most prized hairy crabs due to the high-quality water in the lake.
- In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about hairy crab season, including where to find the best crabs and how to pick them.
Understanding Hairy Crab Season
If you're a foodie, you've probably heard of the famous autumn delicacy - the Hairy Crab. This seasonal delicacy is a freshwater crab that is distinguishable by its furry claws, and it is fondly known as the Chinese Mitten Crab. Hairy Crab season starts from late September up to the beginning of early December.
Significance of Autumn
Autumn is an important season for Hairy Crab lovers as it is the time of year that Hairy Crabs reach maturity and migrate from freshwater to the ocean to breed. Farmers start to harvest the crabs during this movement, making it an extremely crucial moment for them.
Cultural Impact in China and Singapore
Hairy Crab is a delicacy that has a significant cultural impact in both China and Singapore. In China, Hairy Crab is a traditional food that is enjoyed during the autumn season. The most prized Hairy Crabs are caught from Yangcheng Lake, located in Jiangsu Province. In Singapore, Hairy Crab is also a popular dish that is enjoyed by many during the autumn season.
If you're planning to try Hairy Crab for the first time, it's important to know how to pick the best ones and how to prepare them. Some tips for preparing Hairy Crab include not untying the crab, using a soft toothbrush to remove dirt from the exterior shell, and lining a tray with perilla leaves before placing the crab, underside up, in it.
Culinary Delights of Hairy Crabs
If you're a fan of seafood, then you must try the hairy crab. This delicacy is a seasonal treat that is highly sought after in Singapore. Here are some of the culinary delights of hairy crabs that you can enjoy.
Preparation and Cooking Methods
One of the most popular ways to prepare hairy crabs is to steam them. The crabs are cleaned and then steamed until they are cooked through. They are then served with ginger tea and black vinegar. The ginger tea is used to help balance the cooling properties of the crab, while the vinegar helps to cut through the buttery and creamy roe.
Signature Dishes and Restaurants
There are many restaurants in Singapore that offer hairy crab dishes on their menu. Some of the most popular restaurants include Min Jiang, Shang Palace, Yan Ting, and Imperial Treasure. These restaurants are known for their delicious crab dishes, which are prepared using a variety of cooking methods.
Min Jiang at Dempsey is a popular restaurant that offers a chilled hairy crab in Chinese wine brine served with dried longan, wolfberry, and ginger tea jelly. This dish is perfect for those who want to enjoy the cooling properties of the crab.
Shang Palace, a Michelin-starred restaurant, offers a steamed hairy crab with perilla leaves and black vinegar. This dish is perfect for those who want to enjoy the natural taste of the crab.
Yan Ting is a Cantonese restaurant that offers a delightful six-course hairy crab set menu this season. Besides the iconic steamed hairy crab, the sweet flesh of the crustacean finds itself paired with meats like pork in a neat dumpling, as well as a salted egg yolk scallop.
Imperial Treasure is known for its delicious crab dishes, including the chilled hairy crab in Chinese wine brine. This dish is served with ginger rice wine and is perfect for those who want to enjoy the natural taste of the crab.
Frequently Asked Questions
When's the best time to enjoy hairy crabs?
The best time to enjoy hairy crabs is during the autumn season, from late September to early December. This is when the crabs are in season and at their freshest.
What's the going rate for hairy crabs nowadays?
The price of hairy crabs varies depending on the location and the restaurant you're dining at. However, expect to pay a premium for this delicacy as it's highly sought after.
How should one properly devour a hairy crab?
To properly devour a hairy crab, start by breaking off the legs and claws. Use a pair of scissors to cut open the shell and extract the meat. Don't forget to suck out the roe, which is considered a delicacy.
Where's a good spot to tuck into hairy crabs in Singapore?
If you're looking for a good spot to tuck into hairy crabs in Singapore, consider visiting Yan, which is known for its Hairy Crab Festival. Other Michelin-starred restaurants such as Summer Pavilion and Jiang-Nan Chun also offer delicious hairy crab dishes.
Why do hairy crabs come with a hefty price tag?
Hairy crabs come with a hefty price tag due to their limited availability and high demand. They're also considered a luxury item, which further adds to their price.
What makes the hairy crab season in Shanghai stand out?
The hairy crab season in Shanghai is particularly noteworthy due to the high quality of crabs that are available. The crabs are known for their sweet and delicate flesh, as well as their prized roe. Many restaurants in Shanghai offer special hairy crab menus during the season, making it a popular time for foodies to visit the city.