Around the Chesapeake, crabs have been sold by the bushel for well over a hundred years. The basket works because it breathes. Here's how to keep the crabs in good shape until it's time to steam.
Keep them cool, damp, and covered
- Keep the basket out of direct sun and off hot pavement.
- Lay a damp burlap sack or wet newspaper over the top of the crabs.
- Put a lid on the basket. Crabs climb, and a basket without a lid is a basket with fewer crabs.
- Don't put them in standing water. They'll drown.
Why a vented lid matters
Crabs need air. A solid board or a plastic lid can smother them in a hot car. Our wooden bushel basket lids have vent slots cut in so air moves through while the lid keeps the crabs in.
How long will they last?
Kept cool and damp, healthy crabs will usually stay alive for a day. Cook them the same day you get them if you can. Toss any crab that isn't moving before it goes in the pot.
How many crabs in a bushel?
It depends on size. Roughly 5 to 6 dozen large crabs, or 7 to 8 dozen mediums. A half bushel is about half that.
Need a lid for your basket? Shop bushel and half bushel lids, free shipping in the US.