Rely on Jarvis The Fishmonger’s Crab Selection & Quality
Soft-shell crab is a unique delicacy enjoyed by an almost cult-like following of seafood lovers worldwide, especially those along South West England’s Cornwall coast. Soft-shelled crabs are praised for their rich, velvety flavour. If you’re looking for scrumptious soft-shell crab meat in the London area, Jarvis The Fishmonger has you covered with an unbeatable selection. Most of our fresh crab meat and other seafood is ready within 2-4 days for pickup or delivery. See what our family-run fishmonger has available online or in person today!
What Is Soft-Shell Crab Meat? Why Is It Preferred?
What makes soft-shell crab meat different from standard white or brown crab meat? It’s not an elusive crab species. Instead, it’s all about culinary terms and preferences. Soft-shell crabs are caught as soon as they molt (shed their hard exoskeletons) and stored in a climate-controlled area until they’re ready to be sold and consumed. Just about every part of a soft-shelled crab can be eaten without shelling the meat, making it perfect for those who detest cracking into the shell to obtain the delicious meaty reward. However, if they aren’t removed from the water at precisely the right time, their soft shells will harden as they regrow. As you can imagine, catching soft-shell crabs is a time- and labour-sensitive process requiring the care and expertise of skilled fishmongers.
Soft-Shelled Crab Meat Flavour Notes & the Best Pairings
Soft-shelled crab meat is similar in texture to lobsters, making it the preferred crab meat of many of our London-area customers despite its often higher price tag. Soft-shell crab meat is described as being sweet and tender with a tangy accent. It’s best prepared by deep-frying or sautéeing it in oil to lock in the rich, buttery flavour profile. Like most seafood, delicate soft-shelled crab meat pairs well with full-body white wines. Soft-shell crab is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals and low in fat calories.
For the best results, soft-shell crab meat should be cooked within 1-2 days of refrigeration. If you need help with preparing your soft-shelled crab meat from Jarvis, our friendly team would be happy to help. Check out recipes on our website or ask for cooking and preparation tips in person. Here are a few suggestions to get you started with your soft-shell crab meat:
- Sushi rolls
- Crab cakes
- Curries
- Spicy stews
- Salads
- Sandwiches
- Deep-fried with vinaigrette
Sustainability Notes: Where Do We Source Soft-Shell Crab Meat?
Jarvis The Fishmonger is proud to be one of London’s best fishmongers in business for over 80 years. We maintain long-standing relationships with reputable local suppliers committed to responsible sourcing and sustainability to provide full traceability for all fish and shellfish sold on our premises. Our family-run fishmonger supplies many popular seafood restaurants in the Kingston and Borough Market areas. You can rest assured of the quality and freshness of our soft-shell crab meat sourced along the Cornish coast. Crabs are usually pot-caught, which is vital to customers seeking seafood from a low-impact fishing method. It’s all part of the Jarvis difference in exemplary sourcing and customer service that makes us so much more than your average local fishmonger.
Contact Us to Keep Up-to-Date on Our Fresh Seafood Selection
Are you curious about the current soft-shell crab meat craze? Contact Jarvis to keep up-to-date with our fresh seafood selection in London. We’re open Tuesday through Saturday every week and can be found in the Kingston upon Thames area. Browse our product offerings online or in person!