Thinking about adding some delicious crab to your next meal? Costco is often a go-to for bulk groceries and quality seafood, so it’s natural to wonder: does Costco have crab? The short answer is yes, they usually do! However, what you find can vary based on your location, the season, and even the specific store. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about buying crab at Costco, from types and availability to pricing and tips for choosing the best.
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What Kind of Crab Can You Find at Costco?
Costco typically offers a good variety of popular crab options. Here are the most common types you might encounter:
- King Crab Legs: These are often the most sought-after and priciest option. Known for their impressive size and rich, sweet meat, king crab legs are a real treat. You’ll usually find them pre-cooked and frozen.
- Snow Crab Legs: A more affordable and equally delicious alternative to king crab. Snow crab legs are smaller but still packed with sweet, delicate meat. Like king crab, they are usually sold frozen and pre-cooked.
- Dungeness Crab: If you’re looking for whole crab, Dungeness is often the variety you’ll find. They have a distinct sweet and slightly nutty flavor, and you might see them whole (cooked or live, depending on the store and season) or as clusters.
- Jonah Crab Claws: These are a fantastic and more budget-friendly option, especially if you love crab claws. Jonah crab claws are usually pre-cooked, offering sweet, tender meat perfect for cracking and dipping.
- Other Crab Products: Occasionally, you might also spot lump crab meat (often pasteurized and refrigerated), crab cakes, or even imitation crab meat for various recipes.
Availability: When and Where to Find Crab at Costco
The availability of crab at Costco isn’t always constant. Here’s what influences what you’ll find:
- Seasonal Swings: Crab, especially Dungeness and King crab, is often seasonal. You’ll likely see a wider selection and better prices during peak seasons (e.g., King crab season often runs from October to January, and Dungeness crab season varies by region but is strong in winter months). Holidays like Christmas, New Year’s, and Mother’s Day also tend to bring more crab into stores due to increased demand.
- Store Location: If you’re near a coastal region, your local Costco might have a better and more consistent fresh crab selection. Inland stores usually rely more on frozen options.
- Fresh vs. Frozen: Most of the crab at Costco, especially king and snow crab legs, is sold frozen and often pre-cooked. This ensures quality and allows for year-round availability. Fresh, whole Dungeness crab is more likely to be a seasonal offering in specific stores.
Pro Tip: Always check your local Costco’s weekly ad or call their seafood department directly to confirm current stock and pricing before making a special trip!
Understanding Crab Pricing at Costco
Costco is known for competitive pricing, and crab is no exception, especially when buying in bulk. However, crab is a premium seafood, so don’t expect it to be cheap. Here’s a general idea:
- King Crab Legs: These are typically the most expensive, often ranging from $25-$40+ per pound.
- Snow Crab Legs: More budget-friendly, usually falling between $15-$25 per pound.
- Dungeness Crab: Prices can vary widely based on whether it’s whole, clusters, fresh, or frozen, but often falls in the $10-$20+ per pound range.
- Jonah Crab Claws: A great value, usually under $15 per pound.
Remember that prices fluctuate with market conditions and seasonality, so these are just estimates. The advantage of Costco is that you often get restaurant-quality crab at a better price point than many seafood markets.
How to Choose and Buy Crab at Costco
Once you’ve located your desired crab, here’s how to pick the best:
- For Frozen Crab Legs: Look for packages that are well-sealed with no signs of freezer burn (ice crystals or discolored spots). The legs should look plump and intact.
- For Whole Fresh Crab (if available):
- Lively: If buying live, the crab should be active and moving.
- Heavy: A good crab feels heavy for its size, indicating it’s full of meat.
- Clean Smell: It should smell fresh, like the ocean, not overly fishy.
- Intact Shell: Avoid crabs with cracked or damaged shells.
- Check the Label: Always look at the country of origin, catch method (wild-caught is preferred by many), and any certifications for sustainability.
Bringing Your Crab Home: Preparation and Storage Tips
Cooking crab is often simpler than you think, as most crab legs sold at Costco are already pre-cooked and just need reheating.
- Reheating Frozen Pre-Cooked Crab Legs:
- Steaming: The most popular method! Place legs in a steamer basket over boiling water for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
- Baking: Wrap in foil with a splash of water or broth and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- Boiling: Submerge in boiling water for about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as it can make the meat tough.
- Cooking Live/Raw Crab: If you’re lucky enough to find raw Dungeness, the best methods are steaming or boiling. Follow specific recipes for times, typically 8-15 minutes per pound depending on size.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with melted butter (clarified butter is a classic!), lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, or garlic butter. Don’t forget a nutcracker and small forks for easy enjoyment!
- Storage:
- Cooked Crab: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- Frozen Crab: Keep unopened packages in the freezer for several months. Once thawed, consume within 1-2 days.
FAQs About Buying Crab at Costco
Is Costco crab good quality?
Yes, Costco is generally known for its high-quality seafood. Their crab is typically wild-caught and sourced from reputable suppliers, offering excellent taste and freshness, even when frozen.
Is Costco crab pre-cooked?
Most of the crab legs (King, Snow, Jonah claws) sold at Costco are indeed pre-cooked and frozen. This means you just need to reheat them gently before serving.
Can I buy live crab at Costco?
It’s rare, but some coastal Costco locations, especially during peak Dungeness crab season, might offer live whole crab. It’s best to call your local store to check.
When is the best time to buy crab at Costco?
For the widest selection and potentially better pricing, aim for peak crab seasons (often fall and winter for King and Dungeness) or around major holidays when demand increases, prompting stores to stock more.
Final Thoughts
So, the next time you ask “does Costco have crab?”, you’ll know the answer is a resounding yes, with a few helpful caveats! While availability can vary, Costco remains a fantastic place to find quality crab at competitive prices. Whether you’re planning a fancy dinner or just craving some sweet, succulent seafood, keep an eye on your local Costco for their next crab offering. Happy cracking!