Hairy Crab (Da Zha Xie)

Chinese mitten crab (Da Zha Xie) is a hairy crab found in rivers and lakes. Late autumn is the best time for eating crabs in Shanghai. During that time, the best-quality Yangcheng Lake hairy crabs with green shells and white bottoms, rich in fat and ovary, are shipped to restaurants. Among all the dishes, the most popular one is the steamed crab tied with ropes or strings when it is served, which maintains the original flavor of the crab. It focuses on bringing out the natural crab flavor. The meat is tender, juicy and delicious. Da Zha Xie is usually consumed with vinegar with ginger pieces. Locals are also quite fussy about when to consume male crabs and when to consume female crabs.