Best Way To Steam King Crab Legs
If you're searching for a delicious and decadent seafood treat, you can't go wrong with king crab legs. This shellfish is considered a delicacy and is often enjoyed at special occasions or fancy restaurants. However, with the right recipe and technique, you can easily prepare steamed king crab legs at home.
Choosing the Best King Crab Legs
The first step to perfectly steaming king crab legs is to find the best quality seafood you can find. Look for king crab legs that are relatively thick and heavy for their size, as this indicates they are full of meat. Fresh king crab legs should have a slightly sweet, briny smell, and the meat should be firm and succulent.
If you live inland or far from the coast, you may have to settle for frozen king crab legs. Thaw them slowly in the refrigerator overnight, rather than rushing the process by using hot water or the microwave, which can damage the texture of the meat.
Preparing the Crab Legs
Before steaming your king crab legs, it's essential to clean and prepare them properly. Rinse the crab legs under cold running water to remove any excess salt and minerals. Using a pair of kitchen shears, cut along the length of the crab legs to create two halves.
You can also remove the tough shell casing that covers the crab legs, although this step is optional. Simply place the crab legs on a flat surface and use a rolling pin or mallet to crack the shells gently, then peel them off to reveal the meat inside.
Steaming King Crab Legs
Now that your king crab legs are ready, it's time to start steaming them. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the legs, then add a tablespoon of salt and bring the water to a gentle boil.
Place the crab legs into a steaming basket or colander and carefully lower it into the pot. Cover the pot with a lid and let the crab legs steam for about 6-8 minutes, or until the meat is thoroughly warmed through. Avoid overcooking the crab legs, as this can make the meat tough and rubbery.
Serving Your King Crab Legs
Once your king crab legs are steamed to perfection, it's time to serve them up. You can serve your crab legs hot with melted butter, lemon wedges or a dipping sauce of your choice, such as garlic butter or cocktail sauce. Some people also like to add a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning or other spices for an extra kick.
King crab legs are a delicious and healthy seafood option that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you prefer them grilled, baked, or steamed, the key to success is to choose quality crab legs and prepare them with care.
