Crab sticks, also known as surimi, are a processed seafood product made from white fish, typically pollock, that has been pulverized, mixed with starch, sugar, and flavorings, and shaped to resemble crab legs.
* Not actual crab: Despite the name, crab sticks do not contain any crab meat. They are a simulated seafood product.
* Made from white fish: The primary ingredient is white fish, usually pollock, which is ground down into a paste.
* Processed with additives: Starch, sugar, flavorings (including crab extract), and other additives are added to the fish paste.
* Shaped like crab legs: The paste is molded into long, cylindrical sticks that mimic the appearance of crab legs.
* Popular in Asian cuisine: Crab sticks are widely used in Japanese, Korean, and Chinese cooking.
While crab sticks don't actually contain crab, they offer a budget-friendly alternative to real crab meat. They are also versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, such as salads, sushi, and stir-fries.