When Are Crabs in Season? A Full Breakdown of Their Availability
Golden autumn is a season of harvest, and the most anticipated delicacy at this time is none other than the Chinese mitten crab, which is not only plump and rich but also delicious, loved by many people. So when do Chinese mitten crabs hit the market? And when do they leave it?
When do Chinese mitten crabs hit the market?
Many people know that Chinese mitten crabs generally come onto the market in autumn, but to know exactly when they are at their plumpest and most delicious requires some careful study. Starting in early September on the Gregorian calendar, Chinese mitten crabs will gradually appear on the market for sale, but the first batch of crabs is only good for a taste of something fresh; it is not until late September that Chinese mitten crabs all become plump and rich. Chinese mitten crabs generally come onto the market in October, because female crabs in the 9th lunar month and male crabs in the 10th lunar month have the best-developed gonads. When cooked and congealed, the female's is golden yellow, while the male's is like white jade, with a delicious flavor. The timing of Chinese mitten crabs coming onto the market can be adjusted according to demand; after completing their final molt, Chinese mitten crabs no longer grow, and the only question is whether they are plump or not.
When do Chinese mitten crabs leave the market?
Chinese mitten crabs leave the market in December on the Gregorian calendar. Many people who enjoy eating Chinese mitten crabs also want to know when they leave the market, so as to gain some knowledge about seasonal foods. The Chinese mitten crab season lasts about three months, so you can eat them from September all the way to November; after December, Chinese mitten crabs gradually leave the market, but quite a few vendors, in order to profit from sales during the Spring Festival, will keep some Chinese mitten crabs to sell during the Spring Festival. However, the storage cost is relatively high, and during the Spring Festival, Chinese mitten crabs on the market are rather scarce.