Signature Steamed Crab
Signature Steamed Crab
Ingredients:
- Live BC Dungeness crab, whole
- 1 tbsp Salt
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steaming Pot: Fill a large pot with an inch of water. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and bring to a boil.
2. Steam the Crab: Place the live Dungeness crab in the pot using a steamer basket insert or directly in the pot. Cover with a tight-fitting lid. Once the water returns to a boil, allow it to boil for one minute, then reduce the heat to medium-high. Cook the crab for seven minutes per pound, adjusting the time based on the average weight if cooking multiple crabs.
3. Cool the Crab: Immediately transfer the crab to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process and prevent overcooking. Ensure the crab is completely cooled down.
4. Cleaning the Crab:
- Remove the Apron: Turn the crab over and pull off the triangular-shaped apron.
- Remove the Shell: Hold the crab with one hand while using the other hand to lift the back of the shell away from the body. Discard the shell.
- Remove the Gills and Mandibles: Pull off and discard the feathery gills from both sides of the crab. Also, remove the mandibles (mouth parts) located at the front.
- Rinse the Crab: Rinse the crab under cold running water to remove any remaining viscera and gunk.
- Break the Body: Hold the crab body in both hands and break it into two halves.
- Remove the Meat: Use a small fork or a crab cracker to remove the meat from the claws and the body. Be sure to crack the legs and claws to access all the meat.
5. Serve: Enjoy the fresh, succulent crab meat, possibly with a side of melted butter, lemon wedges, and your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes:
You can save or freeze the crab leg and claw shells to create your own seafood stock for future recipes.
