Cooking Crab Legs With Old Bay Seasoning
If you're a fan of seafood, crab legs can be a real treat. Not only are they delicious, but they're also a healthy source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, cooking crab legs can be intimidating if you've never done it before. One popular way to prepare them is by using Old Bay seasoning, a blend of herbs and spices that has been a staple in Maryland cuisine for over 75 years. In this article, we'll explore the steps for cooking crab legs with Old Bay seasoning, as well as some tips for selecting and preparing the best crab legs.
Choosing the Best Crab Legs
The first step to preparing delicious crab legs is to choose the best ones. Often, grocery stores will sell crab legs that have been precooked and frozen. While these are still tasty, if you have access to fresh crab legs, they will have a more delicate flavor and firmer texture. Look for crab legs that are still alive if possible, as this will ensure their freshness.
When selecting crab legs, make sure they're a good size for your pot or steamer. It's also important to check the shells for cracks, as this can cause the meat to dry out during cooking. Additionally, if you're allergic to shellfish, it's important to avoid handling crab legs or using the same cooking utensils as those used for crab legs.
Preparing the Crab Legs
Before you start cooking crab legs, it's important to prepare them properly. First, rinse the crab legs under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, use a pair of kitchen scissors to cut along the length of the shell on the underside of each leg. This will make it easier to remove the meat once it's cooked.
Next, fill a large pot or steamer basket with enough water to cover the crab legs. Add 1-2 tablespoons of Old Bay seasoning per quart of water, depending on your taste preference. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then add the crab legs to the pot or steamer basket. Cover the pot or basket with a lid and steam for 4-6 minutes for precooked legs or 6-10 minutes for fresh legs. The crab legs should be heated through and the meat should be opaque and white when they're done.
Serving Crab Legs
Once your crab legs are cooked, it's time to serve them up. Remove the legs from the pot or basket using tongs or a slotted spoon. You can serve them whole or cut them into smaller pieces for easier eating. Melted butter or clarified butter are common accompaniments for crab legs, as are lemon wedges and cocktail sauce. You can also sprinkle additional Old Bay seasoning over the crab legs for extra flavor.
Whether you're serving them as an appetizer or a main course, crab legs are a special treat that's sure to impress your guests. By following these simple steps for cooking crab legs with Old Bay seasoning, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy seafood dish that's sure to become a favorite in your family.
