10 Things You Should Know About Dungeness Crab, Currently In Season

The Dungeness crab is the undisputed king of the West Coast, found in chilly Pacific Ocean waters and driving fishing town economies throughout California, Oregon and Washington. The six-legged crustacean is a popular foodstuff while in season, a period that begins in early December and generally runs through the spring. While the most basic method of cooking the crabs involves boiling them live in salt water and eating them by cracking the shell and breaking off the legs and claws, more complex and creative preparations have become commonplace in restaurants throughout the country. Here are eight things to keep in mind during Dungeness season.