Best Method For Cooking King Crab Legs
King crab legs are a sought-after delicacy that is enjoyed by seafood lovers all around the world. These crustaceans are delicious, nutritious, and easy to prepare. King crab legs are the perfect addition to any meal, whether you are having a romantic dinner or a festive family gathering. In this article, we will show you the best method for cooking king crab legs.
Selecting King Crab Legs
The first step in cooking king crab legs is selecting the right ones. King crab legs are sold in various sizes, and the larger the crab legs, the more meat they will have. When selecting king crab legs, it is important to choose legs that are firm, shiny, and have a nice aroma. Avoid crab legs that feel soft or slimy, as they may be spoiled. Fresh king crab legs should also have a translucent appearance and a bright red color.
Thawing King Crab Legs
Before cooking king crab legs, you will need to thaw them if they are frozen. The best way to thaw king crab legs is to place them in the refrigerator overnight. This will allow the crab legs to thaw slowly and evenly. If you need to thaw the crab legs quickly, you can place them in a bowl of cold water for several hours. Avoid thawing king crab legs in warm water or the microwave, as this can damage the delicate meat.
Boiling King Crab Legs
Boiling king crab legs is the most popular method of cooking them. To boil king crab legs, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a tablespoon of salt to the water for every quart of water used. Add the crab legs to the pot and cook for 4-6 minutes. The crab legs are cooked when they turn a bright orange-red color. Remove the crab legs from the pot and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Steaming King Crab Legs
Steaming king crab legs is another popular method of cooking them. To steam king crab legs, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Place a metal colander on top of the pot and add the crab legs to the colander. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the crab legs for 6-8 minutes. The crab legs are cooked when they turn a bright orange-red color. Remove the crab legs from the pot and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Baking King Crab Legs
Baking king crab legs is a less common method of cooking them, but it can be just as delicious. To bake king crab legs, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the crab legs in a baking dish and add a quarter cup of water to the dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 8-10 minutes. The crab legs are cooked when they turn a bright orange-red color. Remove the crab legs from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving King Crab Legs
King crab legs are best served with melted butter and lemon wedges. To serve king crab legs, use kitchen shears to cut the crab legs lengthwise down the middle. This will make it easier to remove the meat from the shells. Serve the crab legs on a platter with melted butter and lemon wedges on the side. You can also serve the crab legs with a side of garlic butter or cocktail sauce.
Conclusion
Cooking king crab legs is a simple and easy process that results in a delicious and nutritious meal. Whether you boil, steam, or bake your king crab legs, they are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Remember to select fresh crab legs, thaw them properly, and serve them with melted butter and lemon wedges for the ultimate dining experience.
