Dungeness crab is a true treasure of the sea, prized for its sweet, tender meat and delicate flavor. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or a first-timer eager to try this Pacific Northwest delicacy, cooking Dungeness crab at home is easier than you might think. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to cook Dungeness crab perfectly, from preparation to serving, with tips to make your meal unforgettable.
What You’ll Need
– Live Dungeness crab (about 1.5 to 3 pounds each)
– Large pot or steamer
– Water
– Sea salt
– Optional: Old Bay seasoning, bay leaves, lemon wedges, melted butter, fresh herbs (like parsley or basil)
Preparing Your Dungeness Crab
Before cooking, it’s important to clean your crab properly to remove any dirt or grit.
- Rinse the live crab under cool running water, scrubbing gently to remove any debris.
- Flip the crab over and remove the triangular flap on its underside by bending it backward.
- Remove the apron (a small flap) on the underside as well.
- Rinse again to wash away any remaining sand or dirt.
Cooking Methods for Dungeness Crab
Boiling
Boiling is a classic and straightforward way to cook Dungeness crab.
– Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the crab completely.
– Add a generous amount of sea salt-make the water as salty as the ocean.
– Bring the water to a rolling boil.
– Using tongs, carefully place the live crab into the boiling water.
– Boil for 18 to 20 minutes after the water returns to a boil. You’ll know the crab is done when its shell turns a bright orange-red color.
– Remove the crab with tongs and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process and preserve flavor.
Steaming
Steaming is often preferred because it preserves the crab’s natural sweetness and prevents overcooking.
– Add about an inch or two of water to a large pot, seasoning it with salt and optional herbs or lemon.
– Place a steaming basket or rack inside the pot, making sure the water does not touch the crab.
– Bring the water to a boil.
– Place the crab upside down in the steamer basket.
– Cover the pot and steam for 25 to 30 minutes, or about 7-8 minutes per pound of crab.
– The shell will turn bright orange when done, and you may see some fat oozing from the shell.
Additional Tips
– For extra flavor, you can add Old Bay seasoning or bay leaves to the boiling or steaming water.
– After cooking, let the crab cool for about 10 minutes before handling.
– Serve with melted butter, lemon wedges, or your favorite dipping sauces.
Cleaning and Serving Your Cooked Crab
Once cooked, it’s time to clean and enjoy your crab.
- Pull off the top shell and set it aside for serving if you like.
- Remove the gills (the feathery “dead man’s fingers”) and discard.
- Flip the crab on its back and remove the mouthparts and apron.
- Break the body in half and pick out the meat.
- Crack the legs and claws with a nutcracker or mallet to access the meat inside.
- Arrange the crab meat on a platter, optionally placing it back into the cleaned shells for a beautiful presentation.
Flavorful Ways to Enjoy Dungeness Crab
– Classic Melted Butter Dip: Simply melt butter and add a squeeze of lemon for a rich, buttery dip.
– Garlic and Herb Butter: Sauté garlic in butter with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an aromatic sauce.
– Salt and Pepper Style: Coat cleaned crab pieces lightly in cornstarch and deep-fry, then toss with sautéed garlic, jalapeños, scallions, salt, and pepper for a spicy, crispy treat.
– Crab Salad or Pasta: Use the sweet crab meat in salads or toss with pasta and a light cream or tomato sauce for an elegant meal.
Pro Tips for Cooking Dungeness Crab
– Always use live crab for the freshest flavor.
– Don’t overcook; crab meat becomes tough and rubbery if cooked too long.
– Use tongs to handle hot crabs safely.
– Save the shells to make a flavorful seafood stock or broth.
Cooking Dungeness crab is a rewarding experience that brings the taste of the coast right to your table. With simple steps and fresh ingredients, you can enjoy this delicious seafood delicacy anytime.
Enjoy your feast!