Best Way To Cook Live Dungeness Crab
Dungeness crab is a popular seafood delicacy that is found on the West Coast of the United States. It is known for its sweet, tender meat, and delicate flavor. If you're looking to cook live Dungeness crab at home, it's important to know the best way to do it.
Choosing Live Dungeness Crab
The first step to cooking live Dungeness crab is to choose the best ones from the market. Look for crabs that are alive and active. Avoid crabs that are missing legs, claws or have a soft shell. Make sure that they are heavy for their size and have a hard, firm shell.
Preparing the Crab
Before cooking, you need to clean the crab. Start by rinsing it under cold water and scrubbing it with a brush to remove any dirt or debris. Turn the crab upside down and pull off the triangular tail flap. Remove the apron and discard it, along with the gills. Rinse the crab again under cold water.
Boiling the Crab
Boiling is one of the most common ways to cook live Dungeness crab. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, and add salt, garlic, bay leaves, and other herbs or spices. Once the water is boiling, carefully lower the crab into the pot. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crab is fully cooked. The shell will turn bright red and the meat will be opaque and firm.
Steaming the Crab
Steaming is another popular method for cooking live Dungeness crab. Fill a large pot with a few inches of water and add some herbs or spices. Place a steamer basket inside the pot and bring the water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, carefully place the crab in the steamer basket and cover the pot with a lid. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crab is fully cooked.
Serving the Crab
Once the crab is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes. Use a pair of tongs to crack open the shell and extract the meat. Serve the meat with lemon wedges, melted butter, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Conclusion
Cooking live Dungeness crab is a delicious and rewarding experience. Whether you choose to boil or steam your crab, remember to start with the freshest and highest-quality crabs you can find. With a little bit of preparation and care, you can enjoy this West Coast delicacy in the comfort of your own home.