Exploring Varieties of Delicious Alaska Seafood

Whether found and harvested at sea, from the icy glacial waters or the wild rivers of Alaska, shellfish are a delicacy that is coveted the world over. There are many varieties which are extremely popular, especially those that come from Alaska. Sustainable harvesting practices and the fresh, wild environment make the seafood products that come from Alaska not only more ethically appealing, but more appetizing. The superior texture and taste are matched by the perfect textures and superior nutritional value.

The most well known of all Alaska shellfish is definitely Alaska crab. There are various varieties, and each is desirable for different reasons. Alaska king crab is the largest weighing in at a whopping six to ten pounds. The flaky white meat of the body and legs is tender and sweet tasting, especially when harvested from Alaska's pure and icy waters. Alaska snow crab is also known for its sweet flavors and white body meat, and is noted especially for a delicate texture. Although smaller than Alaska king crab at one to three pounds, snow crab is popular amongst home seafood lovers because of its affordability and ease of preparation. Finally, Alaska Dungeness crab weighs in somewhere around two to three pounds and is noted for its bright orange coloring. The meat is tender and sweet with a flakiness that is desirable amongst life-long lovers of crab.

Other varieties of Alaska shellfish include Alaska pink shrimp and Alaska spot prawns. While pink shrimp is the tiniest of the shrimp species, spot prawns can grow up to a whopping nine inches. Small pink shrimp are often used as an ingredient in other dishes like salads, sandwiches, pastas and more. They can be bought in large quantities, making them great for entertaining or for big meals on special occasions. Large spot prawns on the other hand are often cooked and served as a standalone dish, or as part of a surf and turf. They can be a great at home alternative to expensive lobster dishes, and have a firm texture and light sweet flavor that make them desirable.

Finally, a favorite Alaska shellfish of many are Alaska scallops. Larger than the scallops from other parts of the world, these specimens are plucked from Alaska's icy waters where they have a pure tender texture, cream colored meat and a rich sweet flavor too. Often featured on restaurant menus, these tasty treats are a great way to impress guests or enjoy a special night at home. They can be found in many local seafood markets and grocers.