Cooking crab is a rewarding culinary experience that yields tender, sweet, and succulent meat. Whether you’re using live or pre-cooked crabs, the process is straightforward and can be tailored to your preferences. Here is how to cook crab.
Ingredients
- Fresh or pre-cooked crab (live, frozen, or thawed)
- Water
- Salt (optional)
- Lemon slices, garlic, or herbs for flavor (optional)
Steps to Cook Crab
- Prepare the Crab
If using live crabs, ensure they are fresh and lively. For frozen crabs, thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking. Clean the crab by rinsing it thoroughly under running water. - Choose Your Cooking Method
Crab can be boiled, steamed, or baked depending on your preference.
Boiling Crab
- Step 1: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a handful of salt to season the water and optional aromatics like lemon slices, garlic, or bay leaves for extra flavor.
- Step 2: Submerge the crab into the boiling water.
- Step 3: Cook for 10–15 minutes (depending on size). The shell will turn bright orange when done.
- Step 4: Remove the crab and let it cool slightly before cracking it open to remove the meat.
Steaming Crab
- Step 1: Fill a large pot with about 2 inches of water and place a steaming rack inside. Bring the water to a boil.
- Step 2: Place the crab on the steaming rack, cover the pot, and steam for 15–20 minutes.
- Step 3: Check for the bright orange color as a sign that the crab is fully cooked.
Baking Crab
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: Clean the crab and break it into sections for even cooking.
- Step 3: Place the crab pieces on a baking tray lined with foil. Drizzle with butter, garlic, and your choice of seasoning.
- Step 4: Bake for 20 minutes or until heated through.
Once the crab is cooked, use crab crackers or a mallet to crack open the shell and extract the meat. Serve with melted butter, lemon wedges, or dipping sauces like garlic butter or spicy mayo.
Also Read: How To Cook Calamari