Blue crab meat, which is a very special kind, is shown among the most delicious meats in the world. Therefore, it is among the most hunted species. Blue crabs are among the favorite dishes of Dalyan's famous caretta caretta turtles.
It is known as callinectes sapidus in the world and as blue crab in Turkiye. The Latin name of the crab actually describes it very well: Calli means beautiful, nectes means swimmer, and sapidus means delicious. Its claws and the blue color of its feet make it one of the most handsome creatures in the world of the sea, and the meat under its shells is a favorite of special palates in the world of gastronomy.
The blue crab is actually a species native to North America, but it was somehow able to reach the southern Aegean by ships. The most ideal places to live are those where fresh water and salt water mix. Iztuzu beach in Dalyan, 30 km northwest of Gocek, and the lagoon system behind it are one of the favorite habitats of the blue crab. Another important habitat in the Mediterranean is the Beymelek Lagoon in Demre, located southeast of Gocek.
Late discovery in Turkiye
The blue crab, which was once disliked by fishermen in Dalyan because it broke the nets, is now one of the most sought-after game animals in the region. It is in great demand both by restaurants in Turkiye and abroad. Blue crab, which grows up to 25 cm, is also known as an aphrodisiac and even natural viagra due to the intense protein it contains. Although the female's meat is more palatable, fishermen release the female back to the sea to ensure the continuity of the lineage.
How to cook
The meat quality of blue crabs is very high and is considered one of the most delicious meats in the world. It is usually cooked and served on the grill or barbecue fire in restaurants in the region. Especially foreign tourists show great interest as they are more familiar with the blue crab. Breast and claw meat of blue crabs, which feed on plankton, fish, mollusks and shellfish in Dalyan canals, are eaten.
If you can't find it in the restaurants in Gocek, you should definitely try the restaurants in Dalyan. Half an hour's journey is not much for this flavor. Cheers to you right now.
We also have a recipe for those who want to cook at home
Ingredients:
- 2-3 blue crabs
- Juice of one freshly squeezed lemon
- 5-6 cloves of crushed garlic
- 7-8 spoons of olive oil
Clean the crabs by removing their shells from their upper back. Place in a deep pot. Cover the pot on low heat and cook the crabs until they turn red. Then add olive oil on it and keep it on low heat for 5-6 more minutes. Turn the crushed garlic into a sauce by mixing it with lemon juice. Pour this sauce over the crabs you took out of the pot. Now your blue crabs are ready for the table.
Attention! The meat of blue crabs is delicate and perishable. Therefore, it is very important that the crab to be cooked is fresh.