How Many Dozen Crabs are in a Half Bushel? A Simple Guide

Planning a crab feast is a classic tradition, but figuring out how many crabs to buy can be tricky. A common question for hosts is how many dozen crabs are in a half bushel. The answer isn’t a single number because it depends on the size of the crabs, but a half bushel typically contains between 3 to 6 dozen crabs. This guide will break down everything you need to know to purchase the perfect amount for your gathering.

What are Bushels and Dozens?

Before we can calculate how many crabs you’ll get, it’s important to understand the terms used in the seafood market. Knowing what a “bushel” and a “dozen” mean will help you buy with confidence.

A dozen is simple: it always means twelve of something. Whether you’re buying eggs or crabs, a dozen is a count of 12.

A bushel, however, is a measurement of volume, not count or weight. Think of it like a gallon or a liter. A standard U.S. bushel is equal to 8 gallons or about 35 liters. This measurement is traditionally used for dry goods like produce and, of course, shellfish. A half bushel is simply half of that volume, or 4 gallons.

So, How Many Dozen Crabs are in a Half Bushel?

The number of crabs that can fit into a half-bushel basket depends entirely on their size. Smaller crabs take up less space, so more of them will fit into the basket. Larger crabs take up more room, meaning you’ll get fewer of them in the same half-bushel volume.

Because of this, there is no single magic number. However, you can use general estimates to plan your purchase. A half bushel of medium-sized blue crabs will typically contain about 3 to 4 dozen crabs. If you are buying smaller crabs, you might get as many as 5 or 6 dozen.

Here is a simple table to show how crab size affects the count in a half bushel:

Why the Size of the Crab is the Most Important Factor

When you see sellers advertising a half bushel, the price often reflects the size of the crabs inside. A half bushel of large, heavy male crabs (often called “Jimmies”) will cost more than a half bushel of smaller, lighter crabs, even though the volume is the same.

This is because the larger crabs have a much higher meat-to-shell ratio, making them more desirable for many people. The total number of crabs is less important than the amount of delicious meat you get.

When ordering, it’s a good idea to specify what you’re looking for. Consider these points:

• Large Crabs (Jumbos): Fewer crabs per bushel, but much more meat per crab. Ideal if you want a premium eating experience.
• Medium Crabs: A good balance of size, meat content, and quantity. This is the most common size for crab feasts.
• Small Crabs: The highest number of crabs per bushel. They can be more work to eat but are often the most affordable option.

Always ask your seafood supplier about the current size and expected count. A good fishmonger can tell you exactly what to expect from their catch that day, ensuring you get what you pay for and don’t run out of food at your party.

Planning Your Crab Feast: How Much to Buy

Now that you understand the measurements, you can plan how much to buy for your guests. A good rule of thumb is to plan for about 6 to 8 medium-sized crabs per person. This can change depending on how much other food you are serving and how much your guests love crabs.

Using this guideline, a half bushel of medium crabs (which is about 3-4 dozen, or 36-48 crabs) will comfortably feed between 5 and 7 people. If you’re serving lots of side dishes like corn on the cob, potatoes, and coleslaw, you might be able to stretch it to feed a few more.

If you have a smaller group or want to be very precise, buying by the dozen might be a better choice. This way, you get an exact count. However, for larger gatherings, buying by the half bushel or full bushel is usually more cost-effective.

Frequently Asked Questions about Buying Crabs

How many people does a half bushel of crabs feed?
A half bushel of medium-sized crabs, which is about 3 to 4 dozen, typically feeds 5 to 7 adults. This assumes you are also serving side dishes.

Is it cheaper to buy crabs by the bushel or by the dozen?
It is almost always more economical to buy crabs by the half bushel or full bushel. Buying in bulk like this is cheaper per crab than buying them individually by the dozen.

How much does a half bushel of crabs weigh?
A half bushel of crabs does not have a set weight, as it’s a measure of volume. However, it typically weighs between 20 and 25 pounds, depending on the size and water content of the crabs.

What is the difference between a half bushel and a bushel?
A bushel is a unit of volume equal to 8 gallons. A half bushel is simply half of that amount, or 4 gallons. A full bushel will contain roughly double the number of crabs as a half bushel.

Should I ask about the gender of the crabs?
Yes, it can matter. Male crabs (Jimmies) are typically larger and have more meat than female crabs (Sooks). Many seasoned crab eaters prefer males for their flaky meat, while females can contain roe, which is a delicacy to some.