When preparing for a crab feast or purchasing crabs in bulk, it’s crucial to understand how many crabs in a bushel will feed your group. Whether you’re a beginner or someone who’s been buying crabs for years, this guide provides everything you need to know about crab measurements, sizes, and how to get the most from your crab purchase.
In this article, we’ll explore the number of crabs in a bushel based on crab sizes, how many people a bushel can feed, and the best cooking methods for a full bushel. For more seafood safety guidelines, check out the FDA Seafood Safety Guidelines.
What Is a Bushel and How Is It Used?
A bushel is a standard unit of volume used to measure many agricultural products, including crabs. When it comes to crabs, a bushel is essentially a large basket that holds a specific volume of crabs, which is useful for estimating how many crabs you’re buying or need to feed a group.
- Bushel Size: A bushel holds around 8 gallons of crabs.
- Half-Bushel: A smaller option for those not needing a full bushel, holding around 4 gallons.
For a complete breakdown of how many crabs fit in a bushel, you can reference this complete guide to blue crab bushel sizes.
How Many Crabs in a Bushel? Size Matters
The exact number of crabs in a bushel varies depending on the size of the crabs. Here’s a breakdown based on crab sizes:
- Small Crabs (5-6 inches): A bushel contains about 72-84 crabs. These crabs are great for appetizers or if you’re serving other dishes alongside.
- Medium Crabs (6-7 inches): A bushel contains around 60-72 crabs. This is the most common size for large gatherings.
- Large Crabs (7+ inches): A bushel typically holds 48-60 crabs. These crabs have more meat, so fewer are needed to satisfy your guests.
Crab species also affect the number of crabs per bushel, with blue crabs being the most common species sold by the bushel. Keep in mind that the crab’s shell size influences the total count.
How Many People Can a Bushel of Crabs Feed?
Knowing how many crabs in a bushel is just one part of the equation. You also need to estimate how many people a bushel can feed:
- Small Crabs: A bushel of small crabs (72-84 crabs) can feed approximately 10-12 people, assuming each person eats 6-8 crabs.
- Medium Crabs: A bushel of medium crabs (60-72 crabs) typically feeds 8-10 people.
- Large Crabs: A bushel of large crabs (48-60 crabs) will feed around 6-8 people.
If you’re serving crabs as the main dish, these estimates should ensure everyone has enough. For large gatherings, consider ordering a bit more than the estimates, especially if you know your guests love crab feasts.
Crab Cooking Methods for a Full Bushel
Once you’ve got your bushel of crabs, it’s time to prepare them. Here are the best cooking methods for a large quantity of crabs:
1. Steaming Crabs
Steaming is the traditional method for cooking crabs, especially on the East Coast. It preserves the crab’s flavor and texture.
- Equipment: You’ll need a large pot with a steamer insert.
- Seasoning: Use Old Bay or a similar seafood seasoning.
- Cooking Time: Steam for about 20-30 minutes, depending on the size of the crabs.
2. Boiling Crabs
Boiling is another popular method, especially if you need to cook a large quantity of crabs quickly.
- Equipment: A large pot with boiling water seasoned with spices.
- Cooking Time: Boil for 15-20 minutes or until the crabs turn bright red.
Both methods are excellent for preparing a full bushel, but steaming is generally preferred for large gatherings, as it allows for more seasoning flavor to penetrate the crab meat.
How to Order Crabs by the Bushel
When ordering crabs by the bushel, it’s important to know where to buy and what to consider for large orders:
- Where to Buy: Crabs can be purchased from local seafood markets or online vendors that deliver fresh crabs straight to your door.
- Seasonal Availability: Crabs are more abundant during the warmer months (spring and summer). Prices may vary depending on the season.
- Pricing: Depending on the size and availability, a bushel of crabs can range from $100 to $300.
To get the freshest crabs and best pricing, always plan ahead, especially if you’re buying for a large event.
Tips for Storing Crabs After Purchase
If you’re not cooking your bushel of crabs right away, it’s essential to store them properly:
- Storing Live Crabs: Keep live crabs in a cool, well-ventilated area, ideally between 50-55°F. Do not submerge them in water, as they will die quickly.
- Storing Cooked Crabs: After cooking, crabs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze cooked crabs for up to 3 months.
How to Prepare a Bushel of Crabs for a Feast
Hosting a crab feast? Here’s a simple guide to preparing your bushel of crabs:
- Clean the Crabs: Rinse live crabs under cold water to remove dirt and debris.
- Prepare the Steamer: Fill your pot with water, vinegar, and beer (optional) to add flavor.
- Season Generously: Layer the crabs in the steamer, sprinkling seafood seasoning between each layer.
- Steam Until Done: Steam the crabs for 20-30 minutes until they turn bright red.
Serve your crabs with traditional sides like corn on the cob, coleslaw, and melted butter for dipping.
Sustainable Crab Harvesting Practices
Sustainability is crucial for maintaining healthy crab populations. When buying crabs, ensure you’re supporting sustainable harvesting practices:
- Buy from Certified Sources: Look for seafood vendors with sustainable certifications, such as MSC (Marine Stewardship Council).
- Follow Local Regulations: Make sure the crabs you purchase are within the legal-size limits and that the vendor follows local harvesting laws.
Supporting sustainable crab practices helps ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy delicious crab feasts.
FAQs About How Many Crabs in a Bushel
- How many crabs are in a bushel?
A full bushel can contain between 48 and 84 crabs, depending on the size. - How many crabs are in a half-bushel?
A half-bushel typically holds 24-42 crabs. - How many people can a bushel of crabs feed?
A bushel of large crabs can feed 6-8 people, while smaller crabs can feed 10-12. - What’s the best way to cook a bushel of crabs?
The best methods for cooking a bushel of crabs are steaming or boiling. - How long can you store live crabs before cooking?
Live crabs can be stored for up to 24 hours in a cool, ventilated environment before cooking. - Can you freeze cooked crabs from a bushel?
Yes, cooked crabs can be frozen for up to three months. - What types of crabs are sold by the bushel?
The most common crabs sold by the bushel are blue crabs and Dungeness crabs. - How much does a bushel of crabs cost?
Prices vary based on season, size, and species, but a bushel of crabs typically ranges from $100 to $300.
By understanding how many crabs in a bushel and how to order, store, and cook them, you can ensure your next crab feast is a success. With these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to feed a crowd or just enjoy a delicious meal with family and friends. Happy crabbing!