Crab, Hardshell Blue – Live

Also known as Jimmies (adult males), and sooks (adult females), live hardshell blue crabs are highly sought after for their sweet, delicate meat and distinctive flavor. Used for traditional "crab boils," hardshell blues also produce lump/jumbo lump and claw/leg meat when cooked and picked. Hardshell blue crabs are found throughout the Atlantic Coast and the Gulf Of Mexico and are the most valuable species harvested in the Chesapeake Bay. Unlike live lobsters, these crabs are delicate and do not travel well. As such, they are available only for pre-order.

Scientific Name

Callinectes sapidus

Harvest Method

Wild Caught

Harvest Area

Mid-Atlantic States

Seasonality

Spring, Summer, Fall

Cooking Notes

Steam

Best Substitutes

Jonah Crab, Dungeness Crab

Responsible Sourcing Information

Blue Crabs stocks are carefully managed by NOAA, the Virginia Marine Resources Commission, and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.

Editorial

“The live hardshell blue crab, scientifically known as Callinectes sapidus, is a seafood delicacy that is highly sought after for its sweet, delicate meat and distinctive flavor. These crabs, also known as Jimmies (adult males) and sooks (adult females), are used for traditional “”crab boils,”” where their hard shells reveal a bounty of lump/jumbo lump and claw/leg meat when cooked and picked.

These crabs are found throughout the Atlantic Coast and the Gulf Of Mexico and are the most valuable species harvested in the Chesapeake Bay. Unlike live lobsters, these crabs are delicate and do not travel well, making them a special delicacy available only for pre-order.

As with all seafood, sustainability is a key concern. Regulations and fishing methods used for the live hardshell blue crab are designed to ensure the long-term health and survival of the species. This allows us to enjoy this delicacy while also preserving the marine ecosystem.

In the event that the live hardshell blue crab is unavailable, Jonah crab or Dungeness crab can serve as substitutes.”