What seafood is the hottest seller as the New Year approaches? “Lobsters in summer, crabs in winter—various types of crabs have been the most popular New Year goods in Xiamen in recent years,” according to the owner of Xiamen Huihong Seafood. In recent years, seafood-based New Year goods have been in such high demand that they’re often sold out. Especially, various crabs have been hyped up to exorbitant prices. It is expected that winter crabs will soon be priced at around 120 yuan. Although the price is steep, many find it acceptable—after all, spending a bit more for a delicious treat is worthwhile. However, discovering upon cooking and just before eating that the expensive winter crab has sparse, tasteless roe can be truly disappointing. So how do you pick a delicious winter crab? The owner of Huihong Seafood shared several practical tips with customers.
There are “three looks” to choosing winter crabs:
First, look at the shell. A black-green shell with a glossy finish usually indicates firmer meat. If the back of the shell is yellowish, the crab is likely thinner and less meaty.
Second, check the apron (belly flap). A protruding apron usually means the crab is rich in roe and yellow fat, while a concave one suggests the crab is undernourished.
Third, observe the activity. Winter crabs with intact legs that show slight resilience when gently tugged are fresh. If the legs offer no resistance and break off easily, the crab is likely not fresh.
In recent years, winter crabs have become one of the hottest New Year goods. More than their delicious taste, people are drawn to their symbolism of dominance and vigor. Winter crabs can rival autumn crabs in richness and are also great gifts for holidays. “New Year gifts—whether for elders, leaders, or friends—are generally well-received. But giving cigarettes or alcohol these days feels cliché. That’s why our live crab gift boxes have quietly gained popularity in the market, to the point where supply can’t keep up with demand,” the owner of Huihong proudly explained.
Unlike other regions’ pre-cooked crab gift boxes, Huihong’s winter crabs come in simple packaging—but the surprise inside is remarkable. Four live crabs are neatly arranged in the box, all of top-notch quality, each weighing at least 6 liang (300 grams), with plump roe and rich golden fat. You can even see the tempting amount of crab roe through the box. Market-priced at 120 yuan each, Huihong’s winter crab gift box offers four for only 360 yuan. Using imported wood shaving preservation technology, the crabs can survive at room temperature for at least a week and even longer when refrigerated. Each household has different tastes, and nothing beats enjoying self-cooked food during the reunion dinner to truly embrace the joy of the New Year—a satisfaction that pre-cooked crab gift boxes just can’t deliver.
Live crab gift box hotline: 138-6012-1941
Pick-up address: K25, Zhongpu Aquatic Products Wholesale Market, Xiamen City