The huynh de crab, also known as the spiny lobster crab or royal crab, was once a dish reserved for kings thanks to its exceptional flavor and high nutritional value. This species has a uniquely striking appearance: its body somewhat resembles a lobster, with a large head, long antennae, and a smooth, elongated shell shaped like an apple—quite different from ordinary crabs.
Huynh de crab is prized for its firm, sweet, and fragrant meat, while its roe is especially treasured for being rich, creamy, and more flavorful than that of most other crabs or sea creatures.
In Ly Son, this crab is often prepared in simple ways to preserve its natural ocean taste:
- Steamed and served with green chili salt and pepper
- Boiled, then the meat is sautéed with shallots and seasonings to make a delicious, nourishing crab porridge
Tasting huynh de crab on Ly Son Island is one of the best ways to experience the island’s rich culinary heritage and the bounty of its surrounding seas.
