Snow Crab

The Japanese snow crab is one of four major crabs in Japan. Snow crabs, called zuwai-gani, are a gourmet winter delicacy typically sourced from the cold waters of Hokkaido and the Sea of Japan. To protect snow crab populations, strict fishery regulations designate permitted fishing periods, capacities and crab sizes, based on the type of crab and the region.

Snow crabs are marketed and sold under a “branded” designation and are referred to by specific names based on their origin. For example, Echizen-gani are male snow crabs caught in Fukui Prefecture, largely from the Echizen coast; those caught off the coast of Ishikawa Prefecture are known as Kanou-gani; and those from the San’in region, including Tottori and Shimane prefectures, are branded as Matsuba-gani.

Though the shells of all male snow crabs are larger than those of the female of the species, the distinctive long legs of both are packed with meat. Healthy, protein-rich snow crab meat is tender with a delicate texture and a sweet, umami-rich taste. It can be served raw, grilled or boiled in dishes such as shabu-shabu and hot pots.