Best Way To Clean Hair Off Dungeness Crab
Dungeness crab is a popular seafood delicacy that is enjoyed by many across the United States. However, when it comes to cleaning the crab, many people find it challenging to remove the hair from the shell. The hair is also known as the gills or the dead man's fingers and is not only unpleasant to look at but can also affect the taste of the meat if left on. In this article, we will explore the best way to clean hair off Dungeness crab.
Tools Required
The first step in cleaning Dungeness crab is to gather the necessary tools. For this task, you will need a sharp pair of scissors, a small knife or seafood pick, a large pot, and a strainer. You can also use a scrub brush to clean the crab's shell, but this is optional.
Preparing The Crab
Before you start cleaning the crab, you need to prepare it. Begin by filling a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, place your crab in the pot and let it cook for 15-20 minutes. You can add some salt or seasoning to the water to enhance the flavor of the meat.
Removing The Hair
Once the crab is cooked, remove it from the boiling water and place it in a strainer to drain off any excess water. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before cleaning it. To remove the hair, start by pulling off the triangular-shaped apron that is located at the back of the crab. Next, use your scissors to cut off the face of the crab, which includes the eyes and mouth. Then, use your knife or seafood pick to lift out the gills or hair. You want to make sure that you remove all of the hair as leaving some behind can affect the taste of the meat. Finally, use your scrub brush to clean the shell of the crab thoroughly.
Cracking The Crab
After cleaning your crab, it's time to crack it. To do this, start by removing the claws from the body. Then, crack the claws using a nutcracker or a pair of pliers to get to the meat. You can also use a small knife or seafood pick to remove any remaining meat from the claws. Next, flip the body over and crack it into two halves. Remove any remaining meat from the body using your knife or seafood pick.
Cleaning The Meat
Once you have cracked the crab, you need to clean the meat. To do this, use your hands or a small brush to remove any shell fragments or debris from the meat. You can also rinse the meat under cold water to remove any remaining debris.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cleaning Dungeness crab can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and technique, it becomes easy. The key is to take your time and be thorough. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily remove the hair and clean the meat of your Dungeness crab. So, go ahead and enjoy this delicious seafood delicacy with family and friends!
