Dungeness crab is a delicacy in many parts of the world, particularly in the Pacific Northwest region of North America. Its sweet and tender flesh makes it a favorite among seafood lovers. However, cooking and cleaning live Dungeness crab can be a daunting task for many. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook and clean live Dungeness crab, making it easy for you to enjoy this delicious seafood at home.
Preparing for the Task
Before you start cooking and cleaning your live Dungeness crab, it’s essential to prepare yourself and your kitchen for the task. Here are a few things you need to consider:
Handling Live Crabs
Live Dungeness crabs can be quite feisty, so it’s crucial to handle them carefully to avoid getting pinched. Make sure to wear a pair of gloves or use a towel to protect your hands when handling the crabs. It’s also essential to keep the crabs cold, as this will help to slow down their movements and make them easier to handle.
Equipment Needed
To cook and clean your live Dungeness crab, you will need the following equipment:
- A large pot with a heavy bottom (at least 3-4 quarts in size)
- A steamer basket
- A pair of tongs or a crab picker
- A nutcracker or crab cracker
- A shellfish brush
- A cutting board
- A knife
- A bowl of ice water
Cooking the Crab
Cooking the crab is the first step in preparing it for consumption. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook your live Dungeness crab:
Steaming the Crab
Steaming is the most common method of cooking Dungeness crab. To steam the crab, follow these steps:
- Fill the large pot with 2-3 inches of water and add 2-3 tablespoons of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Place the steamer basket over the pot and gently place the live crab into the basket.
- Cover the pot with a lid and steam the crab for 8-10 minutes per pound, or until it turns bright red and the meat is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Boiling the Crab
Boiling is another method of cooking Dungeness crab. To boil the crab, follow these steps:
- Fill the large pot with enough water to cover the crab and add 2-3 tablespoons of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil and then gently place the live crab into the pot.
- Boil the crab for 5-7 minutes per pound, or until it turns bright red and the meat is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Cleaning the Crab
Once the crab is cooked, it’s time to clean it. Cleaning the crab involves removing the shell, gills, and guts, and then cracking the body and claws to extract the meat. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean your cooked Dungeness crab:
Removing the Shell
To remove the shell, follow these steps:
- Hold the crab belly-up and locate the apron, which is the triangular flap on the underside of the crab.
- Pull the apron back and forth until it breaks off, and then lift the shell off the body.
- Rinse the body under cold running water to remove any bits of shell or debris.
Removing the Gills and Guts
To remove the gills and guts, follow these steps:
- Hold the crab body upside down and locate the gills, which are the feathery organs on either side of the body.
- Pull the gills out and discard them, and then locate the guts, which are the soft, greenish-brown organs in the center of the body.
- Pull the guts out and discard them, and then rinse the body under cold running water to remove any bits of gills or guts.
Cracking the Body and Claws
To crack the body and claws, follow these steps:
- Hold the crab body firmly and locate the segments, which are the divisions between the body and the claws.
- Use a nutcracker or crab cracker to crack each segment, and then use a shellfish brush to remove any bits of shell or debris.
- Use a knife to cut along the edges of the body and claws to release the meat, and then use a fork to pull the meat out.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when cooking and cleaning live Dungeness crab:
- Use a crab steamer pot: A crab steamer pot is a specialized pot that is designed specifically for steaming crabs. It has a built-in steamer basket and a lid that helps to trap the steam and cook the crab evenly.
- Add flavorings to the water: You can add flavorings such as lemon juice, garlic, and herbs to the water when steaming or boiling the crab to give it extra flavor.
- Use a crab cracker: A crab cracker is a specialized tool that is designed specifically for cracking crab shells. It can be used to crack the body and claws of the crab, making it easier to extract the meat.
- Serve with melted butter: Serving the crab with melted butter is a classic way to enjoy it. Simply melt some butter in a saucepan and serve it with the crab.
Conclusion
Cooking and cleaning live Dungeness crab can seem like a daunting task, but with the right equipment and a little practice, it can be easy and enjoyable. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can enjoy delicious and fresh Dungeness crab at home. Remember to always handle the crabs carefully and humanely, and to cook them until they are bright red and the meat is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Happy cooking!
What is the best way to store live Dungeness crab before cooking?
Live Dungeness crab should be stored in a cool, moist environment to keep them fresh and alive. You can store them in a container filled with ice packs or even in the refrigerator, covered with a damp cloth. It’s essential to keep them away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as this can cause them to become stressed and die.
When storing live Dungeness crab, make sure to handle them gently to avoid injuring them. You can also cover the container with a lid or plastic bag to maintain humidity and keep them calm. It’s recommended to cook them within a day or two of purchase to ensure optimal flavor and texture.
How do I humanely kill a Dungeness crab before cooking?
To humanely kill a Dungeness crab, you can use a method called “spiking” or “pithing.” This involves inserting the tip of a sharp knife or a specialized tool into the cross-shaped mark on the top of the crab’s head, which is the location of the brain. This will instantly kill the crab and make it easier to clean and cook.
Alternatively, you can also use a method called “electrical stunning,” which involves using a device specifically designed for this purpose. This method is considered more humane than boiling the crab alive, as it instantly renders the crab insensible to pain. Regardless of the method you choose, it’s essential to handle the crab gently and humanely to ensure a quick and painless death.
What is the best way to clean a Dungeness crab before cooking?
To clean a Dungeness crab, start by rinsing it under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, use a soft-bristled brush or a toothbrush to gently scrub the shell and remove any remaining dirt or algae. You can also use a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar to help loosen any stubborn dirt or stains.
Once you’ve cleaned the exterior of the crab, use a pair of kitchen shears or a crab cracker to remove the apron (the triangular flap on the underside of the crab) and the gills. Rinse the crab under cold running water again to remove any remaining bits of shell or debris. You can then cook the crab using your preferred method, such as steaming or boiling.
How do I remove the shell and extract the meat from a cooked Dungeness crab?
To remove the shell from a cooked Dungeness crab, start by twisting off the apron and the top shell. Then, use a pair of kitchen shears or a crab cracker to break the shell into smaller pieces, making it easier to extract the meat. You can also use a fork or a pick to gently pry out the meat from the shell.
To extract the meat, start by removing the body meat, which is the largest piece of meat in the crab. Then, use a fork or a pick to extract the meat from the claws and legs. You can also use a specialized tool called a crab pick to help extract the meat from the shell. Be sure to rinse the meat under cold running water to remove any remaining bits of shell or debris.
Can I freeze Dungeness crab meat, and if so, how do I do it?
Yes, you can freeze Dungeness crab meat to preserve it for later use. To freeze the meat, start by rinsing it under cold running water to remove any remaining bits of shell or debris. Then, pat the meat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. You can then place the meat in an airtight container or freezer bag, making sure to press out as much air as possible before sealing.
When freezing Dungeness crab meat, it’s essential to label the container or bag with the date and contents, and to store it in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below. Frozen crab meat can be stored for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw the meat in the refrigerator or under cold running water, and use it in your preferred recipe.
How do I cook Dungeness crab, and what are some popular cooking methods?
Dungeness crab can be cooked using a variety of methods, including steaming, boiling, grilling, and sautéing. One popular method is to steam the crab over boiling water, using a steamer basket to keep the crab above the water. You can also add flavorings such as lemon juice, garlic, and herbs to the water for added flavor.
Another popular method is to boil the crab in a large pot of saltwater, using a ratio of 1 tablespoon of salt per quart of water. You can also add flavorings such as lemon juice and herbs to the water for added flavor. Regardless of the method you choose, it’s essential to cook the crab until it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork, which should take around 8-10 minutes per pound.
What are some popular recipes that use Dungeness crab meat?
Dungeness crab meat is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and salads to pasta and seafood boils. One popular recipe is Dungeness crab cakes, which involve mixing the crab meat with breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, and seasonings, and then forming it into patties and frying until crispy.
Another popular recipe is Dungeness crab bisque, which involves simmering the crab meat in a flavorful broth with aromatics such as onions and garlic, and then pureeing it until smooth. You can also use Dungeness crab meat in salads, such as a classic crab and avocado salad, or in pasta dishes, such as a crab and linguine pasta. The possibilities are endless, and the flavor and texture of Dungeness crab meat make it a great addition to many recipes.