Deviled crab originated in Tampa, Florida, and is essentially a crab meat croquette. This is a kind of snack served for lunch and is meant to be eaten using one hand. The crab is prepared by sautéing blue crab with seasoning made from peppers, onions, tomatoes, and more.
Today, we’ll be discussing a brief origin story for the dish, why you need to eat the dish, and where to find the most delicious one.
So let’s get started!
A Brief History of The Dish
During the late 1920s, this dish originated in the immigrant communities from Cuba, Italy, and Spain who resided in Ybor City in Tampa. As blue crabs were commonly found in nearby waters and Cuban bread was affordable, local chefs created a meal by combining these with flavorful seasoning.
This is how the famous Tampa-style crab coquette or deviled crab was made.
Deviled crabs are still famous in Tampa Bay Area, especially in restaurants and lunch cafes that serve Cuban or Spanish cuisines in West Tampa and Ybor City.
Why Eat Deviled Crab?
While delicious, deviled crab is also highly nutritious and consists of several health benefits. What’s more, the blue crabs used for the dish are native to Tampa, which means you’ll always have fresh crabs. Here’s how these are beneficial for your body.
1. Full of Protein
Blue crabs contain large amounts of protein that help maintain muscle. Moreover, the high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, and vitamin B12 play an essential role in improving general health and preventing various chronic conditions.
2. Improves Heart Health
The omega-3 fatty acids have a wide range of benefits related to heart health. These nutrients can reduce blood clotting, triglycerides and make it less likely for you to face arrhythmias.
3. Keeps The Brain Sharp
According to research, people who eat seafood at least once a week have drastically reduced their Alzheimer’s and dementia risk. Also, consuming deviled crab can benefit your brain health because of the higher levels of Omega-3 fatty acids.
4. Prevents Anemia
People suffering from anemia have lower healthy red blood cells and experience weakness or fatigue as a result. Vitamin B12 and foliate found in blue crabs drastically reduce the risk of anemia.
Where to Find the Best Deviled Crab in Tampa?
At Pappy’s Devil Crabs, our experience in making delicious deviled crabs with a traditional touch is something you won’t find elsewhere. We make deviled crabs using a classic and authentic recipe that makes this meal a treat.
We also offer an assortment of foods and beverages, catering, and wholesale services across Tampa. Get in touch today to taste the best deviled crabs.
