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Raw Crab Cheek
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Raw Crab Cheek

Callinectes sapidus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Raw crab cheek is a delicacy known for its sweet, tender meat and is often enjoyed in various culinary dishes. It is rich in protein and low in fat, making it a nutritious seafood option.

Also known as:
Crab CheekSoft Shell Crab Cheek
Scientific NameCallinectes sapidus
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories97 kcal
Water
80%
Fiber0g
Total21.0g
Protein
20g(95%)
Fats
1g(5%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin B129.8 µg (408%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Selenium38 µg (69%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in protein, raw crab cheek supports muscle growth and repair, making it an excellent choice for athletes and active individuals.
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it promotes heart health by reducing inflammation and improving cholesterol levels.
Contains essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B12 and selenium, which are crucial for energy metabolism and antioxidant defense.
Low in calories and carbohydrates, making it suitable for weight management and low-carb diets.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Raw crab may contain harmful bacteria or parasites, posing a risk of foodborne illness if not sourced from reputable suppliers.
!Individuals with shellfish allergies should avoid consuming crab products to prevent allergic reactions.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed raw in sushi or sashimi, ensure the crab is fresh and sourced from clean waters. Can also be lightly steamed or grilled for enhanced flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose crabs that are alive and active, with a clean ocean smell. The shells should be intact and free of cracks or discoloration.

How to Store

Store live crabs in a breathable container in the refrigerator. For cooked crab, keep it in an airtight container and consume within 3-5 days.

Myths vs Realities

MythEating raw crab is always safe.
RealityRaw crab can harbor harmful bacteria or parasites, so it should only be consumed if sourced from reputable suppliers.
MythAll crab is the same nutritionally.
RealityDifferent types of crab have varying nutritional profiles, with some being higher in omega-3s and others in protein.
MythCrab meat should always be cooked.
RealityCertain crab parts, like the cheek, can be enjoyed raw if fresh and properly handled.

Healthy Recipes

Citrus-Infused Raw Crab Cheek Salad

A refreshing salad featuring raw crab cheeks tossed with a zesty citrus dressing, perfect for a light lunch or appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw crab cheeks
  • 1 cup mixed greens
  • 1 orange, segmented
  • 1 grapefruit, segmented
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine the mixed greens, orange, and grapefruit segments.
  2. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Gently fold in the raw crab cheeks and drizzle the dressing over the salad before serving.

Spicy Raw Crab Cheek Tacos

Delicious tacos filled with raw crab cheeks, avocado, and a spicy mango salsa for a healthy twist on traditional tacos.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw crab cheeks
  • 2 small corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 cup diced mango
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 small jalapeño, minced
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine diced mango, lime juice, jalapeño, and salt to make the salsa.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet until pliable.
  3. 3. Assemble the tacos by layering avocado slices and raw crab cheeks, then top with the mango salsa.

Raw Crab Cheek Ceviche

A vibrant ceviche made with raw crab cheeks marinated in lime juice, mixed with fresh herbs and vegetables for a burst of flavor.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw crab cheeks
  • 1/2 cup lime juice
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 small cucumber, diced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine raw crab cheeks with lime juice and let marinate for 15 minutes.
  2. 2. Add red onion, cilantro, cucumber, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
  3. 3. Serve chilled as an appetizer or light meal.

Raw Crab Cheek and Avocado Toast

A nutritious open-faced sandwich featuring creamy avocado and fresh raw crab cheeks on whole grain bread.

Ingredients
  • 100g raw crab cheeks
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 2 slices whole grain bread
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Microgreens for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the whole grain bread until golden brown.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mash the avocado with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Spread the avocado mixture on the toast, top with raw crab cheeks, and garnish with microgreens.

Raw Crab Cheek Sushi Rolls

Healthy sushi rolls featuring raw crab cheeks, cucumber, and avocado wrapped in nori and served with a light soy dipping sauce.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw crab cheeks
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 4 sheets nori
  • 2 cups sushi rice, cooked
  • Soy sauce for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo mat and spread a thin layer of sushi rice over it.
  2. 2. Place raw crab cheeks, cucumber, and avocado in the center of the rice.
  3. 3. Roll tightly and slice into pieces, serving with soy sauce.

Raw Crab Cheek Quinoa Bowl

A wholesome quinoa bowl topped with raw crab cheeks, fresh vegetables, and a sesame dressing for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw crab cheeks
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and shredded carrots.
  2. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sesame oil, rice vinegar, and salt.
  3. 3. Top the quinoa mixture with raw crab cheeks and drizzle with the dressing.

Raw Crab Cheek and Mango Salad

A tropical salad combining raw crab cheeks with ripe mango, cucumber, and a lime vinaigrette for a refreshing dish.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw crab cheeks
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix diced mango and cucumber.
  2. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Gently fold in the raw crab cheeks and pour the dressing over the salad before serving.

Raw Crab Cheek Lettuce Wraps

Light and healthy lettuce wraps filled with raw crab cheeks, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy dressing for a perfect appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw crab cheeks
  • 1 head butter lettuce, leaves separated
  • 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine raw crab cheeks, bell pepper, carrot, hoisin sauce, and lime juice.
  2. 2. Spoon the mixture into individual lettuce leaves.
  3. 3. Serve immediately as a fresh appetizer.

Raw Crab Cheek and Zucchini Noodles

A low-carb dish featuring spiralized zucchini noodles topped with raw crab cheeks and a light garlic sauce.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw crab cheeks
  • 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add spiralized zucchini and cook for 2-3 minutes until just tender.
  3. 3. Top with raw crab cheeks, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh basil.

Raw Crab Cheek Poke Bowl

A vibrant poke bowl featuring raw crab cheeks, brown rice, and a variety of fresh toppings for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw crab cheeks
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/2 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup edamame
  • 1/4 cup seaweed salad
  • Soy sauce for drizzling
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, layer cooked brown rice, raw crab cheeks, avocado, edamame, and seaweed salad.
  2. 2. Drizzle with soy sauce before serving.
  3. 3. Enjoy as a healthy and filling meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is raw crab safe to eat?

Raw crab can be safe to eat if sourced from reputable suppliers and handled properly to avoid contamination.

How should I store raw crab?

Store raw crab in the coldest part of the refrigerator and consume it within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

What are the health benefits of eating crab?

Crab is high in protein, low in fat, and contains essential nutrients like Vitamin B12 and selenium, which support overall health.

Can I freeze raw crab?

Yes, raw crab can be frozen, but it is best to cook it first for better texture and flavor upon thawing.

How do I know if crab is fresh?

Fresh crab should have a clean, ocean-like smell, firm texture, and bright coloration without any discoloration.

What dishes can I make with raw crab?

Raw crab can be used in sushi, ceviche, crab cakes, or served as a topping for salads.

Are there any risks associated with eating raw crab?

Yes, there is a risk of foodborne illness from bacteria or parasites, so it's important to ensure proper sourcing and handling.

What is the best way to prepare crab cheeks?

Crab cheeks are best enjoyed raw or lightly cooked to preserve their delicate flavor and texture.