Seven-Star Purple Crab

Seven-Star Purple Crab

　　The Seven-Star Purple Crab is named after the purple crab and the shape it takes when plated. It is a species of hairy-legged river crab found in the outskirts of Tianjin, with larger ones about the size of a silver dollar and smaller ones resembling copper coins. In winter, they congregate in muddy holes along riverbanks, requiring ice-breaking to retrieve them. Though small, their undersides are clean and white without any mud, and they have a delicious taste. Their crab roe is exceptionally abundant, and through the thin carapace, a purplish layer shows, which is how it got its name. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it was considered a tribute delicacy.

　　It became a traditional winter delicacy in Tianjin, prepared by local chefs as “Seven-Star Purple Crab.” Its taste is incredibly fresh and uniquely fragrant. The poet once praised it: “The crimson crab is smaller than a coin, the frosted claw curled tight; caught from Tianjin’s waters, then shipped on the Wei River boat. By the lamplit halls at dusk, in the waning winter’s light snow, let us gather, drink deep—this is the season’s finest delight.”