Protein
crawfish heads.
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-freeHalalKosher
SERVING
CALORIES
92
PROTEIN
14.8g
CARBS
0g
FAT
3.2g
FIBER
0g
NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g
Everything in this ingredient.
MACRONUTRIENTS
Calories92kcal—
Protein14.8g30%
Carbohydrates0g0%
Fiber0g0%
Sugar0g0%
Total fat3.2g4%
Saturated fat0.60g3%
Trans fat0g—
Cholesterol165mg55%
Water79.5g—
MINERALS
Sodium115mg5%
Potassium240mg5%
Calcium45mg3%
Iron1.3mg7%
Magnesium32mg8%
Phosphorus210mg17%
Zinc1.6mg15%
Copper0.45mg50%
Manganese0.10mg4%
Selenium38.2µg69%
VITAMINS
Vitamin A25µg3%
Vitamin C1.2mg1%
Vitamin D0.20µg1%
Vitamin E1.8mg12%
Vitamin K0.10µg0%
Thiamin (B1)0.06mg5%
Riboflavin (B2)0.07mg5%
Niacin (B3)2.4mg15%
Pantothenic acid (B5)0.55mg11%
Vitamin B60.12mg7%
Folate (B9)12µg3%
Vitamin B122.8µg117%
%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.
MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS
How much is what.
1 piece15g
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why eat it.
- ✓Excellent source of intense umami flavor, enhancing stocks, sauces, and bisques without added sodium.
- ✓Contains omega-3 fatty acids, which support cardiovascular and brain health.
- ✓Provides essential minerals such as selenium, phosphorus, and zinc, crucial for immune function and bone health.
- ✓A good source of B vitamins, particularly Vitamin B12, which is vital for nerve function and red blood cell formation.
COOKING TIPS
In the kitchen.
- 1Simmer crawfish heads with aromatic vegetables (onion, celery, bell pepper) and herbs to create a rich, flavorful seafood stock for gumbos, étouffées, or bisques.
- 2The yellow-to-orange 'fat' (hepatopancreas) inside the head is a delicacy. It can be sucked directly from the head after boiling or scooped out and added to sauces for richness.
- 3Sauté the heads in butter or oil over low heat to create an intensely flavored infused fat. Strain and use the fat for cooking or as a finishing drizzle.
- 4For a potent flavor base, roast the heads until fragrant, then simmer and purée them with a small amount of liquid. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve.
STORAGE
Keep it fresh.
- For fresh use, store in an airtight container in the coldest part of the refrigerator and use within 1-2 days.
- Freeze for long-term storage. Place heads in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They will keep for up to 3 months.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Are crawfish heads healthy?
Yes, crawfish heads are a nutritious, low-calorie ingredient. They are high in protein and essential minerals like selenium and zinc, while containing zero carbohydrates, making them a healthy addition to a balanced diet.
What is the yellow 'fat' inside crawfish heads?
The yellow substance is the hepatopancreas, often called 'crawfish butter.' It is highly flavorful and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, though it is also where the animal's cholesterol is concentrated.
How much protein is in crawfish heads?
Crawfish heads provide approximately 14.8 grams of protein per 100 grams. This makes them an excellent source of lean protein for those looking to support muscle maintenance and repair.
Are crawfish heads keto-friendly?
Yes, crawfish heads are perfectly keto-friendly as they contain 0g of carbohydrates. They are also low in calories (92 per 100g) and provide healthy fats, making them ideal for low-carb lifestyles.
How do you use crawfish heads in cooking?
They are most commonly used to create rich seafood stocks, bisques, and sauces. Boiling the heads extracts intense umami flavors and nutrients, providing a deep savory base for Cajun and Creole dishes.
What do crawfish heads taste like?
Crawfish heads have a much more concentrated, sweet, and briny flavor than the tail meat. They offer an intense umami profile that enhances the complexity of soups and stews.
How should I store leftover crawfish heads?
Fresh crawfish heads should be used within 1-2 days if refrigerated. For longer storage, they can be frozen in airtight bags for up to 3 months to be used later for making stocks.
Are crawfish heads gluten-free?
Naturally, crawfish heads are 100% gluten-free. However, if you are consuming them in a prepared dish like a gumbo or bisque, be aware that those recipes often use flour-based thickeners.
What are the primary vitamins found in crawfish heads?
They are a particularly good source of B vitamins, especially Vitamin B12. This vitamin is vital for healthy nerve function and the formation of red blood cells.
Can I eat the contents of the crawfish head raw?
No, it is not recommended to eat crawfish heads raw due to the risk of parasites and bacteria. They should always be thoroughly boiled or cooked to ensure they are safe for consumption.
