Troll Crabs – A Versatile Culinary Delicacie
The troll crab is a crustacean that hails from the cold waters of the North Atlantic Ocean, particularly in the coastal areas of Norway and Iceland. It is often called this because it possesses unique physical attributes that are similar to the mythological trolls of folklore, including spiky leg tips and reddish-brown shells. This species, scientifically known as Lithodes maja, is a relative of the king crab and is commonly fished by sports fishermen for its flavorful meat.
Although similar in appearance to other crabs, troll crab meat has distinct characteristics that set it apart from others, most notably its pronounced sweetness. A combination of factors contribute to this characteristic, including its fresh, juicy texture and its brisk Arctic-derived saltiness. The troll crab is also a versatile culinary delicacy that can be prepared in a variety of ways, from steaming and boiling to sautéing and baking.
While troll crabs are often consumed as a whole, the claws and legs tend to be most prized by chefs for their delicately sweet, tender meat. This makes them perfect for chopping, slicing, and dicing into small pieces that are ideal for use in soups, stir-fries, and other dishes that call for large chunks of seafood. The meat can also be made into crab cakes, sushi rolls, and dips.
Steaming is a traditional cooking method for troll crabs, allowing them to retain their natural sweetness and firmness. Simply fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil before gently placing the crabs in the pot, cooking for 7-8 minutes per pound. Steaming also allows for the troll crabs’ raw bluish-grey color to transform into vibrant shades of oranges and reds, indicating that they have been cooked thoroughly.
The troll crab is an important food source in its habitat, where it scavenges on the rocky and sandy seafloors for prey such as smaller crabs, fish, mollusks, and even carrion. However, this omnivorous crab is not immune to the pressures of commercial and industrial fishing practices, putting its population at risk. To protect this beautiful and sustainable aquatic delicacy, it is important to support responsibly harvested troll crabs that carry the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) label. This certification provides assurance that the crabs are sustainably sourced from reputable fisheries using environmentally friendly and responsible methods of harvesting.
