Dungeness crab, a staple of West Coast cuisine, is a delicacy that’s both flavorful and fun to eat. However, cooking it can seem intimidating, especially for those who are new to seafood preparation. In this article, we’ll take you through the process of cooking a Dungeness crab, from preparation to serving.
Choosing the Right Crab
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right crab. Here are a few things to look for when selecting a Dungeness crab:
- Freshness: Look for crabs that are heavy for their size and have a sweet, ocean-like smell. Avoid crabs with a strong, ammonia-like smell, as this can be a sign of spoilage.
- Size: Dungeness crabs come in a range of sizes, but the most common sizes are 1-2 pounds. If you’re looking for a more indulgent experience, consider a larger crab.
- Seasonality: Dungeness crabs are typically in season from November to June, with the peak season being from December to May.
Preparing the Crab
Once you’ve chosen your crab, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Here are the steps to follow:
- Rinse the crab under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Pat the crab dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Remove the apron, which is the triangular flap on the underside of the crab. This will help the crab cook more evenly.
- Remove the gills and guts, which are located on the underside of the crab. You can use a small knife or a pair of kitchen shears to do this.
Cooking the Crab
Now that your crab is prepared, it’s time to cook it. Here are the steps to follow:
- Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the crab. The general rule of thumb is to use 4-6 quarts of water for every 1-2 pounds of crab.
- Add 2-3 tablespoons of salt to the water, as well as any other seasonings you like (such as lemon juice, garlic, or Old Bay seasoning).
- Bring the water to a boil, then carefully place the crab into the pot.
- Cover the pot and cook the crab for 8-10 minutes per pound, or until it’s bright red and the meat is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Steaming vs. Boiling
While boiling is the most common way to cook a Dungeness crab, steaming is also a popular option. Here are the benefits of each method:
- Boiling: Boiling is a great way to cook a Dungeness crab, as it allows the crab to cook evenly and quickly. However, it can also be a bit messy, as the crab will release its juices into the water.
- Steaming: Steaming is a great way to cook a Dungeness crab, as it allows the crab to retain its flavor and texture. It’s also a bit healthier than boiling, as it doesn’t require as much water.
Steaming Instructions
If you prefer to steam your Dungeness crab, here are the steps to follow:
- Fill a large pot with 2-3 inches of water.
- Add 2-3 tablespoons of salt to the water, as well as any other seasonings you like.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Place a steamer basket over the pot and add the crab.
- Cover the pot and cook the crab for 8-10 minutes per pound, or until it’s bright red and the meat is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Serving the Crab
Once your Dungeness crab is cooked, it’s time to serve it. Here are a few ways to enjoy your crab:
- Crack and serve: Use a nutcracker or a pair of kitchen shears to crack open the crab’s shell, then serve the meat with melted butter, lemon wedges, and your favorite sides.
- Crab feast: Host a crab feast by serving the crab with a variety of sides, such as corn on the cob, potatoes, and salad.
- Crab cakes: Use the crab meat to make crab cakes, which can be pan-fried and served with a variety of sauces.
Crab Etiquette
When serving Dungeness crab, there are a few etiquette rules to keep in mind:
- Use a bib: Dungeness crab can be messy, so be sure to wear a bib to protect your clothes.
- Use a nutcracker: A nutcracker is the best way to crack open the crab’s shell, as it allows you to get to the meat without making a mess.
- Be patient: Eating Dungeness crab can be a slow and laborious process, so be sure to take your time and enjoy the experience.
Conclusion
Cooking a Dungeness crab can seem intimidating, but with the right steps and a bit of practice, it can be a fun and rewarding experience. Whether you’re a seasoned seafood lover or just looking to try something new, Dungeness crab is a delicacy that’s sure to please. So next time you’re at the market, be sure to pick up a few crabs and give this recipe a try.
| Crab Size | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| 1-2 pounds | 8-10 minutes per pound |
| 2-3 pounds | 10-12 minutes per pound |
| 3-4 pounds | 12-15 minutes per pound |
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to cook the perfect Dungeness crab every time. Happy cooking.
What is the best way to choose a fresh Dungeness crab?
When choosing a fresh Dungeness crab, look for one that is heavy for its size and has a hard, rigid shell. Avoid crabs with soft or brittle shells, as this can be a sign of age or poor health. You should also check the crab’s legs and claws, making sure they are intact and not damaged.
Fresh Dungeness crabs will also have a pleasant, slightly sweet smell. If the crab smells strongly of ammonia or has a sour odor, it may be past its prime. Finally, check the crab’s eyes, which should be bright and beady. If the eyes are dull or sunken, the crab may not be as fresh as you think.
How do I humanely kill a Dungeness crab before cooking it?
To humanely kill a Dungeness crab, you will need to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will slow down the crab’s metabolism and make it easier to kill. Once the crab is chilled, you can kill it by inserting the tip of a knife or other sharp object into the cross-shaped mark on the top of the crab’s shell.
This will instantly kill the crab, making it ready for cooking. Alternatively, you can also kill the crab by quickly submerging it in boiling water or steam. However, this method can be less humane if not done correctly, so it’s recommended to use the chilling method whenever possible.
What is the best way to cook a Dungeness crab?
The best way to cook a Dungeness crab is by steaming it. Steaming helps to preserve the delicate flavor and texture of the crab, and it’s also a relatively quick and easy method. To steam a Dungeness crab, simply place it in a steamer basket over boiling water, cover the pot, and steam for 8-10 minutes per pound.
You can also add some seasonings to the water, such as lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, to give the crab extra flavor. Once the crab is cooked, remove it from the steamer and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
How do I crack open a Dungeness crab?
To crack open a Dungeness crab, you will need a nutcracker or other heavy object. Start by twisting off the crab’s apron, which is the triangular flap on the underside of the shell. Then, use the nutcracker to crack the shell along the edges, working your way around the crab until the shell is completely removed.
Once the shell is removed, you can use a fork or other utensil to pull out the lumps of crab meat. Be careful not to break up the lumps, as this can make the meat difficult to serve. You can also use a crab pick to help extract the meat from the shell.
What are some popular seasonings and sauces for Dungeness crab?
Dungeness crab is a versatile ingredient that can be seasoned and sauced in a variety of ways. Some popular seasonings include lemon juice, garlic, and herbs like parsley and dill. You can also add some melted butter or mayonnaise to the crab for extra richness and flavor.
For a more elaborate sauce, you can try making a remoulade sauce with mayonnaise, ketchup, and herbs. Alternatively, you can make a simple cocktail sauce with ketchup and horseradish. Whatever sauce you choose, be sure to serve it on the side, allowing each guest to help themselves.
Can I cook a Dungeness crab in advance and reheat it later?
While it’s technically possible to cook a Dungeness crab in advance and reheat it later, this is not recommended. Reheating cooked crab can cause the meat to become tough and rubbery, which can be unpleasant to eat.
If you need to cook a Dungeness crab in advance, it’s better to cook it just until it’s opaque and flaky, then chill it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This will help preserve the texture and flavor of the crab. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the crab gently over low heat until it’s warmed through.
How do I store leftover Dungeness crab?
To store leftover Dungeness crab, you should first chill it in the refrigerator as soon as possible. Remove the crab meat from the shell and place it in a covered container, making sure to press plastic wrap or wax paper directly onto the surface of the meat to prevent it from drying out.
The crab can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, or frozen for up to 3 months. When freezing, be sure to press out as much air as possible from the container or freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the crab in the refrigerator or reheat it gently over low heat.