Shells of the Sea
Crustaceans, Roe & Ocean Flavour
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Shells of the Sea
A guide to the fascinating world of crustaceans, shellfish, and ocean delicacies.
From deep-water scampi to coastal Moreton Bay bugs, the oceans produce some of the most remarkable ingredients in the culinary world. In this series we explore the species behind the seafood, how they are harvested, and why chefs prize them so highly. Along the way you’ll discover the differences between lobsters, langoustines, prawns, roe, and caviar — and how these ingredients travel from ocean waters to the plate.
Whether you are curious about rare seafood, learning to cook shellfish, or simply love the stories behind great ingredients, Shells of the Sea dives into the flavours, history, and science of the ocean’s most intriguing foods.
Topics in this series: scampi, lobsters, crustaceans, shellfish, roe, caviar, seafood ingredients, and chef techniques.
Some are luxurious.
Some are humble.
All have a story.
If you’ve ever wondered why one shellfish tastes sweeter than another, why roe is prized in fine dining, or how different cultures cook crustaceans, you’re in the right place.
Welcome beneath the shell.
Quick Guide to Shells of the Sea
Crustaceans
🦞 Lobsters, scampi, langoustines and Moreton Bay bugs.
Shellfish
🦪 Oysters, mussels, clams and scallops.
Cooking Shellfish
🔥 How chefs prepare delicate seafood.
Seafood Luxuries
🥚 Roe, coral and caviar.
Featured Stories
Explore the Series
🦞 What Exactly Is Scampi
🦞 Scampi vs Lobster vs Prawn
🦞 Moreton Bay Bugs Explained
🦐 Wild Scampi Caviar
A rare delicacy from the sea — exploring roe, flavour, and why chefs prize it.
🦞 Moreton Bay Bugs, Scampi & Lobsters
Not all crustaceans are the same. Discover what separates these ocean favourites.
🦞 What exactly is scampi?
Most people think it’s prawns in garlic butter…
but the real story is far more interesting.
Discover the story behind scampi and why chefs prize this deep-water crustacean.
🦞 Scampi vs Lobster vs Prawn
• What scampi actually are
• How lobsters differ
• Why prawns cook differently
• How chefs choose between them
If you love learning the stories behind great ingredients, this one’s for you.
🦞 Moreton Bay Bugs Explained
Moreton Bay bugs are a type of slipper lobster found in warm Australian waters and prized for their sweet, delicate meat.
🦞 Why Some Seafood Costs Hundreds of Dollars
The ocean produces ingredients that range from humble to extraordinary. Some shellfish are everyday pleasures, while others become prized delicacies served in the world’s finest restaurants.
🦞Langoustine: The Chef’s Favourite Shellfish
Langoustines, also known as scampi, are among the most prized shellfish in the world. Discover where they come from, why chefs love them, and how they are best cooked.
Coming Soon
🦞 Spiny Lobster vs True Lobster
🦐 Scampi Around the World
🥚 Roe, Coral & Caviar Explained
🌊 The Ocean’s Most Expensive Ingredients