Name:

Brown Box Crab

Lopholithodes foraminatus

Seasonal Availability:

Year-round

For species-specific updates, please visit this website

Commercial Length or Size Requirements:

5.5 inches

Flavor Profile

Box crab has a sweet and succulent flavor that is unique to its species. The flesh is tender and delicate, with a hint of brininess and a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements its savory notes. The meat is firm yet flaky, with a buttery texture that melts in your mouth.

Our favorite ways to cook

When it comes to California Box Crab, we love to make crab cakes. Combine the crab meat with breadcrumbs, minced herbs, a touch of mayo, and some lemon juice. Form the mixture into patties and pan-fry them until golden brown on each side. The result is a delightful combination of flavors and textures – crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Serve these crab cakes as an appetizer or in a sandwich for a delicious meal.

Things you probably didn't know about Brown Box Crab

Box crabs are intriguing creatures with a few interesting facts that many people may not know. First of all, these crabs are known to have a unique defense mechanism where they can lock themselves inside their box-shaped shells using their large claws. Second, box crabs have been spotted wielding sea anemones in their claws as a form of protection. The anemones help to deter predators and also provide a source of food for the crab. Lastly, box crabs have the ability to regenerate their claws if they are lost due to injury or predation. These are just a few fascinating traits of box crabs that make them a fascinating subject of study in the marine world.