Dungeness crab is a popular seafood delicacy, prized for its sweet and tender flesh. While it may seem intimidating to cook a whole crab, it’s actually quite simple. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of cooking a Dungeness crab from the store, including how to choose the right crab, prepare it for cooking, and cook it to perfection.
Choosing the Right Crab
Before you start cooking, you need to choose the right crab. Here are a few things to look for when selecting a Dungeness crab from the store:
- Freshness: Look for crabs that are heavy for their size and have a sweet, slightly salty smell. Avoid crabs that have a strong, ammonia-like smell, as this can be a sign of spoilage.
- Size: Dungeness crabs come in a range of sizes, from about 1 1/2 to 4 pounds. The larger the crab, the more meat it will have, but it may also be more expensive.
- Shell condition: Choose crabs with hard, intact shells. Avoid crabs with soft or cracked shells, as these can be a sign of age or damage.
Where to Buy Dungeness Crab
You can buy Dungeness crab from a variety of sources, including:
- Fish markets: Fish markets often carry a selection of fresh seafood, including Dungeness crab.
- High-end grocery stores: Many high-end grocery stores carry Dungeness crab, especially during peak season.
- Online seafood retailers: If you can’t find Dungeness crab in stores, you can also buy it online from a reputable seafood retailer.
Preparing the Crab for Cooking
Before you cook the crab, you need to prepare it. Here’s how:
- Rinse the crab: Rinse the crab under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Pat dry the crab: Use paper towels to pat the crab dry, both inside and out. This will help the crab cook more evenly.
- Remove the apron: The apron is the triangular flap on the underside of the crab. Remove it by twisting it counterclockwise.
- Remove the gills: The gills are the feathery structures on either side of the crab’s body. Remove them by pulling them out.
Other Preparation Options
Some people like to add additional flavorings to their crab before cooking. Here are a few options:
- Old Bay seasoning: This is a popular seasoning blend that’s commonly used on seafood. Sprinkle it liberally over the crab before cooking.
- Lemon juice: Squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the crab before cooking. This will add a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Garlic: Mince a few cloves of garlic and sprinkle them over the crab before cooking.
Cooking the Crab
Now it’s time to cook the crab. Here are the basic steps:
- Fill a large pot with water: Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the crab. Add a tablespoon or two of salt to the water.
- Bring the water to a boil: Bring the water to a rolling boil.
- Add the crab: Carefully add the crab to the pot. Make sure it’s fully submerged in water.
- Cover the pot: Cover the pot with a lid.
- Cook the crab: 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.
Alternative Cooking Methods
While boiling is the most common way to cook Dungeness crab, there are other options. Here are a few:
- Steaming: Steaming is a great way to cook crab without losing any of the delicate flavor. Simply place the crab in a steamer basket over boiling water, cover the pot, and cook for 8-10 minutes per pound.
- Grilling: Grilling is a great way to add a bit of smoky flavor to your crab. Simply place the crab on a preheated grill, close the lid, and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the crab is bright red and the meat is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Serving the Crab
Once the crab is cooked, it’s time to serve it. Here are a few ideas:
- Crack and serve: Simply crack the crab open and serve it with melted butter, lemon wedges, and your favorite sides.
- Crab cakes: Use the crab meat to make delicious crab cakes. Simply mix the crab meat with some panko breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings, shape into patties, and fry until golden brown.
- Crab salad: Use the crab meat to make a delicious salad. Simply mix the crab meat with some chopped veggies, such as onion and celery, and a bit of mayonnaise.
Crab Cracking Tips
Cracking open a Dungeness crab can be a bit tricky, but here are a few tips to make it easier:
- Use the right tools: You’ll need a crab cracker or nutcracker to crack open the crab.
- Start with the legs: Start by cracking the legs, as these are the easiest to remove.
- Work your way around the body: Once you’ve removed the legs, work your way around the body, cracking the shell as you go.
- Be gentle: Be gentle when cracking the shell, as you don’t want to break up the meat inside.
Conclusion
Cooking a Dungeness crab from the store is a simple process that requires just a few basic steps. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can enjoy delicious, freshly cooked crab in the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, Dungeness crab is a great choice. So next time you’re at the store, be sure to pick one up and give it a try!
What is the best way to store a Dungeness crab before cooking?
Store the Dungeness crab in a covered container in the refrigerator at a temperature of 38°F or below. Make sure the crab is wrapped in a damp paper towel or cloth to maintain humidity. This will help keep the crab fresh and prevent it from drying out.
It’s essential to cook the crab within a day or two of purchase, as Dungeness crabs are highly perishable. If you won’t be cooking the crab immediately, you can also store it in a cooler with ice packs to keep it at a safe temperature.
How do I humanely kill a Dungeness crab before cooking?
To humanely kill a Dungeness crab, you’ll need to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Then, quickly insert the tip of a sharp knife into the cross-shaped mark on the top of the crab’s shell, cutting through the spinal cord and killing the crab instantly.
Alternatively, you can also use a crab picker or a pair of kitchen shears to quickly kill the crab. Regardless of the method, it’s essential to kill the crab quickly and humanely to minimize suffering and ensure food safety.
What is the best way to cook a Dungeness crab?
The best way to cook a Dungeness crab is by steaming it. Fill a large pot with 2-3 inches of water, add 2-3 tablespoons of salt, and bring the water to a boil. Place the crab in a steamer basket, cover the pot, and steam the crab for 8-10 minutes per pound, or until it’s cooked through.
Steaming helps preserve the delicate flavor and texture of the crab, and it’s also a relatively low-maintenance cooking method. You can also add aromatics like lemon slices, garlic, and herbs to the steaming water for extra flavor.
How do I know when a Dungeness crab is cooked?
A cooked Dungeness crab will have a bright orange shell, and the meat will be opaque and flake easily with a fork. You can also check for doneness by twisting off one of the legs – if it comes off easily, the crab is cooked.
It’s essential to cook the crab until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F to ensure food safety. Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature, especially when cooking larger crabs.
Can I cook a Dungeness crab in the microwave?
While it’s technically possible to cook a Dungeness crab in the microwave, it’s not the recommended cooking method. Microwaving can result in uneven cooking, and the crab may not be cooked through.
Additionally, microwaving can also cause the crab to become tough and rubbery. Steaming or boiling are generally better cooking methods, as they help preserve the delicate flavor and texture of the crab.
How do I crack and clean a Dungeness crab?
To crack and clean a Dungeness crab, 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. Gently pry the shell away from the meat, taking care not to tear the delicate flesh.
Use a small fork or pick to remove the meat from the shell, and rinse the meat under cold running water to remove any bits of shell or cartilage. You can also use a crab picker or a pair of kitchen shears to help extract the meat.
Can I freeze cooked Dungeness crab meat?
Yes, you can freeze cooked Dungeness crab meat, but it’s essential to follow proper food safety guidelines. Cool the cooked crab meat to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Label the container with the date and contents, and store it in the freezer at 0°F or below.
Frozen crab meat will typically keep for 3-6 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw the crab meat in the refrigerator or under cold running water, and use it in your favorite recipes.