Despite their name , blue crabs are typically more of a gray to dull blue-green in color . Only their claws are truly blue , with the claws of mature females tipped in a bright orange-red .
There’s another easy way to distinguish between a male and female blue crab : Myrtle beach locals know to look for the “apron” . Males have a T-shaped abdomen , while females have a triangular abdomens that becomes rounder as they age .
As crabs grow , they shed their shells , a process called molting . The crab takes in water to expand and break out of its old shell . A new, soft shell is revealed underneath and quickly hardens .
These crustaceans are among the most heavily harvested creatures on the planet . They feed on almost everything they can get hold of , like mussels , snails , fish , plants , and even carrion and smaller blue crabs.
With three pairs of walking legs , blue crabs generally walk sideways , clearing a path with sharp lateral spines . Large, powerful claws are used for defense , digging , sexual displays and to gather food . Crabbing is part of Grand Strand’s heritage , and crab feasts are a favorite local summer tradition . Heaps of blue crabs (now red , after steaming) , spicy and hot , are piled high on newspaper-covered tables and eagerly devoured in backyards , restaurants and picnic sites . Nearly every Southerner has his or her own recipe for steamed blue crabs .
Steamed blue crabs are a southern tradition . Some pickers like to work from the middle out and other from the legs on in — but no matter what , everyone like them dirty . Grab you mallets , roll up your sleeves and get picking on crabs from Seafood World restaurant . When our live crabs arrive , it is important that we steam them as soon as possible . The crabs will turn a shade of orange when cooked throughout . Blue crab is a mild-tasting seafood that is low in fat and contains just 82 calories per 3-ounce serving . It supplies key vitamins and minerals that support good health and can be an occasional part of your diet . Also blue crab is an impressive source of vitamin B12, of which you need 2.4 micrograms each day . The vitamin also supports normal brain function . Getting sufficient amounts of vitamin B12 can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease , according to the National Institutes of Health . These crustaceans offer a sweet , delicate meat encased in a hard shell . Eating these crabs is usually quite time consuming , requiring you to carefully pull meat from the body and claws cracked with a crab cracker . Seafood World restaurant brings Myrtle Beach the mouth-watering combination of cold drinks and the best steamed blue crabs . We get our own crabs from the local catchers , hand-sort and steam them . While steaming blue crabs at Seafood World Seafood Buffet we use our special seasoning that has a unique and excellent blend of herbs and spices that is making mouths water with every anticipated bite , one food lover at a time ! There is no “right” or “wrong” way how to eat blue crabs and many people have their own opinion on it . No matter how you do it , it does take experience to perfect but sure is a lot of fun learning . If you don’t know how , our staff will be glad to show you ! So dont hesitate , just ask ! Once you’ve tried the succulent meat from blue crab you will be hooked forever ! Our Seafood Buffet offers fresh and high quality crabs among other seafood choices , like Alaskan Crab Legs , Shrimp , Oysters , etc. It is the perfect stop for you and your family to enjoy our delicious menu or all you can eat fresh local seafood and steaks buffet ! Coupons and specials are frequent .