Best Way To Make Snow Crab Legs
Crab legs are a popular seafood delicacy that many people enjoy. They are readily available in most grocery stores and seafood markets, and they are also served in many restaurants. Snow crab legs are especially popular due to their sweet and succulent meat. However, not everyone is familiar with how to prepare them. In this article, we will discuss the best way to make snow crab legs, step by step.
Choosing the Right Crab Legs
The first step in making snow crab legs is choosing the right ones. When selecting crab legs, look for ones that are bright in color and don’t have any discoloration or spots. The legs should be firm to the touch and feel heavy for their size. If possible, try to get the freshest crab legs available.
Thawing the Crab Legs
If you are using frozen crab legs, you will need to thaw them before cooking. The best way to do this is to place them in the refrigerator overnight. If you don’t have time for that, you can place them in a bowl of cold water for a few hours until they are fully thawed.
Boiling the Crab Legs
The most popular way to cook snow crab legs is to boil them. To do this, fill a large pot with enough water to cover the crab legs. Add a tablespoon of salt and bring the water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the crab legs and let them cook for 4-5 minutes. Don’t overcook them, or the meat will become tough.
Steaming the Crab Legs
Another way to cook crab legs is to steam them. To do this, fill a pot with an inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place a steamer basket in the pot and add the crab legs. Cover the pot and let the crab legs steam for 5-6 minutes. This method is a little gentler on the crab legs and preserves more of their flavor.
Baking the Crab Legs
You can also bake snow crab legs in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Brush the crab legs with melted butter and place them in a baking dish. Bake for 5-6 minutes, or until heated through. This method gives the crab legs a slightly different texture and flavor than boiling or steaming.
Serving the Crab Legs
Once the crab legs are cooked, it’s time to serve them. You can serve them hot or cold, depending on your preference. If you’re serving them hot, you can add a little more melted butter or a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor. If you’re serving them cold, you can make a simple dipping sauce by mixing mayonnaise, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Conclusion
Snow crab legs are a delicious and easy-to-prepare seafood option. Whether you choose to boil, steam, or bake them, they make for a great meal. Remember to choose the freshest crab legs possible and to not overcook them. With these tips, you’ll be a pro at making snow crab legs in no time.