Crab Meat Know How

You are at the store looking for crab meat. There are so many kinds, what do they all mean?

Lump Crab Meat is usually white meat that is found inside the main shell of the crab. This meat is usually used in salads where you would like it apparent that there is crab in it.

Flake Crab Meat is usually all the leftover meat from the main shell after the main meat has been removed. Flake crab meat is usually used in sauces and dips to add flavor and a bit of texture.

Claw Crab Meat is usually meat from the claw of the crab only. Firmer in texture and not quite as flakey as any of the above meat. Claw meat is good for casseroles or soups. It can stand up to the cooking process well, while providing good flavor.

All of these types of crab meat can be used for making crab cakes, although for best results I would use a combination of all. Easiest way to do that is to buy a full crab. Have the butcher clean it for you. When you get home it will only take about 10-15 minutes to clean all the meat from the crab.