Crabs are the ninth most popular seafood in the United States, but not everyone knows how to cook them. So, most often, Americans go to restaurants to enjoy this underwater delicacy.
Instead of paying for someone else to cook crab legs for you, why not learn to prepare them yourself? If you do so, you can save a lot of money and eat them more often! Plus, you’ll always have a go-to recipe for date night.
This post will share step-by-step instructions for preparing crab legs the right way. So, keep reading for an excellent crab legs recipe!
Picking Out Crab Legs
First, you need to know which types of crab legs you should purchase. Most often, grocery stores in the United States sell Snow Crab, usually in clusters of legs and claws. These crab legs are quite affordable, and they have a sweet flavor you’re bound to enjoy.
However, you can also find King Crab, a larger type of crab that stores normally sell by the leg. It’s sweeter than Snow Crab and resembles lobster meat. So, you can expect to pay more for King Crab.
Choose Your Cooking Method
Crab legs are easy to prepare, no matter which type you purchase. You can steam, broil, or boil crab legs, all of which only take a few minutes to do.
How to Boil Crab Legs
Boiling is one of the easiest ways to cook crab legs. Here’s all you need to do:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil
- Add the crabs to the boiling water
- Cook for five minutes
Once the crab legs are ready, remove them from the water and let them cool.
How to Steam Crab Legs
Many people prefer steaming crab legs because it keeps the juices inside the shell. If you want juicer crab meat, you should:
- Boil a large pot of water
- Place a steamer basket over the water and place the crab legs inside
- Cover the crab legs with a lid and steam
After about five to eight minutes, your crab legs should be ready!
How to Broil Crab
Broiling is another popular cooking method that gives crab meat a toasty flavor. If you want to give it a try, follow these steps:
- Using the broiler setting, preheat the oven
- Place the crab on a baking sheet
- Brush with melted butter
- Place tray about six inches under the broiler, cook for two minutes on each side
When your crab legs are cooked to your liking, remove them!
Serve Your Crab Legs
Now, you’re ready to serve your crab legs! Most people like to brush melted butter on them once they are tender, sprinkle on some seafood seasoning, or spritz them with lemon juice.
However, you can get creative by making homemade crab mustard or other delicious sauces!
Cook Crab Legs the Right Way!
Now that you understand how to cook crab legs, there’s no reason to overpay for them in fancy restaurants. So, head to the store to buy crab legs, tie your apron on, and get to work!
Would you like to enhance your cooking skills? If so, check out more of our culinary content!
