Blue swimmer crabs, also known as Portunus pelagicus, are a popular seafood delicacy in many parts of the world. Native to the coastal waters of Australia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, these crabs are prized for their sweet and tender flesh. If you’re looking to cook blue swimmer crabs, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to prepare, cook, and enjoy these delicious crustaceans.
Choosing the Right Blue Swimmer Crabs
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right blue swimmer crabs. Here are a few things to look out for:
- Freshness: Fresh blue swimmer crabs should have a sweet smell, firm shells, and be active. Avoid crabs that have a strong ammonia smell, soft shells, or are lethargic.
- Size: Blue swimmer crabs come in various sizes, ranging from 300g to 1.5kg. The ideal size for cooking is between 500g to 1kg.
- Seasonality: Blue swimmer crabs are available throughout the year, but the best time to buy them is during the peak season, which varies depending on your location.
Where to Buy Blue Swimmer Crabs
You can buy blue swimmer crabs from various sources, including:
- Fish markets: Fish markets are an excellent place to buy fresh blue swimmer crabs. You can find them in most coastal cities and towns.
- Seafood stores: Seafood stores often carry a variety of seafood, including blue swimmer crabs.
- Supermarkets: Some supermarkets carry blue swimmer crabs, especially those with a seafood section.
- Online seafood retailers: Online seafood retailers are a great option if you can’t find blue swimmer crabs in your local area.
Preparing Blue Swimmer Crabs for Cooking
Before cooking blue swimmer crabs, you need to prepare them. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Humanely Kill the Crabs
To humanely kill blue swimmer crabs, you need to:
- Place the crabs in a container or bag and put them in the freezer for about 30 minutes to an hour. This will slow down their metabolism and make them easier to handle.
- Remove the crabs from the freezer and immediately insert the tip of a sharp knife into the cross-shaped mark on the top of the shell. This will kill the crab instantly.
Step 2: Remove the Apron and Gills
- Hold the crab belly-up and locate the apron, which is the triangular flap on the underside of the shell.
- Gently pull the apron away from the shell and discard it.
- Remove the gills, which are the feathery structures on either side of the body.
Step 3: Rinse the Crabs
- Rinse the crabs under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
Cooking Blue Swimmer Crabs
Now that you’ve prepared the blue swimmer crabs, it’s time to cook them. Here are a few cooking methods:
Steaming Blue Swimmer Crabs
Steaming is a great way to cook blue swimmer crabs without losing their flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Fill a large pot with about 5-7cm of water and add 1-2 tablespoons of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Place a steamer basket over the pot and add the blue swimmer crabs.
- Cover the pot with a lid and steam the crabs for 8-10 minutes per kilogram.
Boiling Blue Swimmer Crabs
Boiling is another popular way to cook blue swimmer crabs. Here’s how to do it:
- Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the blue swimmer crabs.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of salt and any other desired seasonings, such as lemon juice or garlic.
- Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Carefully add the blue swimmer crabs to the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes per kilogram.
Grilling Blue Swimmer Crabs
Grilling is a great way to add smoky flavor to blue swimmer crabs. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Rinse the blue swimmer crabs under cold running water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Brush the crabs with oil and season with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
- Place the crabs on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they’re cooked through.
Serving Blue Swimmer Crabs
Once you’ve cooked the blue swimmer crabs, it’s time to serve them. Here are a few ideas:
- With melted butter: Serve the blue swimmer crabs with melted butter, which is a classic way to enjoy them.
- With lemon wedges: Serve the blue swimmer crabs with lemon wedges, which add a nice burst of citrus flavor.
- With seafood sauce: Serve the blue swimmer crabs with a seafood sauce, such as cocktail sauce or tartar sauce.
- In a salad: Serve the blue swimmer crabs in a salad, such as a seafood salad or a green salad with seafood.
Blue Swimmer Crab Recipes
Here are a few blue swimmer crab recipes you might enjoy:
- Blue Swimmer Crab with Garlic Butter: This recipe involves cooking the blue swimmer crabs in garlic butter, which adds a rich and creamy flavor.
- Blue Swimmer Crab with Asian-Style Sauce: This recipe involves cooking the blue swimmer crabs in an Asian-style sauce, which adds a sweet and sour flavor.
- Blue Swimmer Crab Cakes: This recipe involves making crab cakes with blue swimmer crab meat, which is a great way to enjoy them.
Conclusion
Cooking blue swimmer crabs is a relatively simple process that requires some basic preparation and cooking skills. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can enjoy delicious and flavorful blue swimmer crabs at home. Whether you prefer to steam, boil, or grill them, there’s a cooking method to suit your taste. So next time you’re at the fish market or seafood store, be sure to pick up some blue swimmer crabs and give them a try.
Additional Tips
- Handle the crabs gently: Blue swimmer crabs are delicate, so handle them gently to avoid damaging their shells or flesh.
- Cook the crabs immediately: It’s best to cook the blue swimmer crabs immediately after preparing them to ensure they’re fresh and flavorful.
- Don’t overcook the crabs: Blue swimmer crabs are best cooked until they’re just done, as overcooking can make them tough and rubbery.
By following these tips and the cooking methods outlined in this article, you can enjoy delicious and flavorful blue swimmer crabs at home.
What is the best way to store Blue Swimmer Crabs before cooking?
Blue Swimmer Crabs should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area to keep them fresh. It’s essential to keep them away from direct sunlight and heat sources. You can store them in a container covered with a damp cloth or paper towels to maintain humidity.
When storing Blue Swimmer Crabs, make sure they have enough space to move around. Overcrowding can cause stress and lead to a decrease in the quality of the meat. If you’re planning to store them for an extended period, consider keeping them in a refrigerator at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). However, it’s recommended to cook them as soon as possible to ensure optimal flavor and texture.
How do I humanely kill Blue Swimmer Crabs before cooking?
To humanely kill Blue Swimmer Crabs, you can use the “spike and chill” method. This involves inserting a sharp object, such as a skewer or the tip of a knife, into the cross-shaped mark on the top of the crab’s head. This will instantly kill the crab.
After spiking the crab, immediately submerge it in an ice bath to chill. This will help relax the muscles and make the cooking process easier. Alternatively, you can also use a stun tank or an electric stunner specifically designed for crustaceans. These methods can be more effective and efficient, especially when dealing with large quantities of crabs.
What is the recommended cooking method for Blue Swimmer Crabs?
The recommended cooking method for Blue Swimmer Crabs is steaming. Steaming helps preserve the delicate flavor and texture of the crab meat. To steam Blue Swimmer Crabs, place them in a steamer basket over boiling water, cover with a lid, and steam for 8-10 minutes per kilogram.
You can also add flavorings such as lemon, garlic, or white wine to the steaming water for extra flavor. Another popular cooking method is boiling, but steaming is generally preferred as it helps retain the moisture and flavor of the crab meat. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the meat tough and rubbery.
How do I clean and prepare Blue Swimmer Crabs for cooking?
To clean and prepare Blue Swimmer Crabs, start by rinsing them under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, remove the apron (the triangular flap on the underside of the crab) and the gills. You can also remove the top shell, but this is optional.
Next, rinse the crab under cold running water again to remove any remaining dirt or debris. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the shell and remove any dirt or algae. Finally, pat the crab dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Your Blue Swimmer Crabs are now ready to cook.
Can I cook Blue Swimmer Crabs from frozen?
Yes, you can cook Blue Swimmer Crabs from frozen, but the quality of the meat may be affected. Frozen crabs can be just as flavorful as fresh ones, but the texture may be slightly softer. To cook frozen Blue Swimmer Crabs, simply thaw them first by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or by submerging them in cold water.
Once thawed, cook the crabs as you would fresh ones. However, keep in mind that frozen crabs may require slightly longer cooking times. It’s also essential to check the crabs for any signs of spoilage before cooking, such as off smells or slimy texture.
How do I crack open Blue Swimmer Crabs to extract the meat?
To crack open Blue Swimmer Crabs, start by twisting off the legs and claws. Then, use a nutcracker or the back of a heavy knife to crack the shell along the seams. You can also use a crab cracker or a shellfish cracker specifically designed for this purpose.
Once the shell is cracked, use a fork or a pick to gently pry out the meat. Start with the body and then move on to the legs and claws. Be careful not to break up the lumps of meat, as this can make them difficult to extract. You can also use a crab meat extractor tool to make the process easier.
How do I store cooked Blue Swimmer Crab meat?
Cooked Blue Swimmer Crab meat should be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). It’s essential to cool the meat down to room temperature within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
Once cooled, store the crab meat in a covered container and refrigerate it immediately. Cooked crab meat can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to six months. When freezing, make sure to press out as much air as possible from the container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.