A single crab costs 460RMB? Yes, and it's well worth every
fen. This is not your average mud crab. It's called Huang
You crab (黄油蟹 mud crab with roe), and it's in season from
late June till the end of August every year. Much like hairy
crabs, Huang You crabs are loved for their creamy roe, and
they have golden roe all over their bodies even down to the
joints, which certainly is a rarity. That's the main reason why
Huang You crabs are so highly sought after. Cheng Long
Hang is a reputable Huang You crab and hairy crab supplier
with branches all over the South China region, but little
do people know that the Dongshan outlet steams live crabs
for those who crave an absolute fresh taste. The store is only
a small grocery with a few fish tanks where the crabs are
kept, but their loyal customers simply don't mind savoring
hundreds of yuan worth of crustaceans around two shabby
tables. Delicate crabs such as Huang You are best steamed
with perilla leaves to bring out the natural sweetness, and
the best seasoning is some fine aged vinegar for dipping.
Traditionally, ginger tea is recommended after eating crabs,
as the Chinese believe crabs have a cold nature, but vintage
Hua Diao (a Chinese yellow wine) is also a perfect match.
If Huang You crabs are too much of a splurge, baby hairy
crabs are available at 25RMB per piece, and make for an
equally delicate treat.
30, Miao Qian Zhi Jie, Yuesiu District (8765 0577)
成隆行，越秀区庙前直街30号
Daily: 9:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Payment: cash only
Price: no extra charge for cooking and free ginger tea available