Dungeness crab is a popular seafood delicacy, prized for its sweet and tender flesh. If you’re a fan of this crustacean, you might be excited to know that Costco often carries fresh or frozen Dungeness crab in their seafood section. However, cooking Dungeness crab can seem intimidating, especially if you’re new to preparing seafood. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to cook Dungeness crab from Costco, including how to choose the best crab, thawing and cleaning, and various cooking methods.
Choosing the Best Dungeness Crab from Costco
When selecting Dungeness crab from Costco, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you get the best quality. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect crab:
- Freshness: If you’re buying fresh Dungeness crab, look for crabs that are active and have a pleasant smell. Avoid crabs with dull eyes, soft shells, or a strong ammonia smell, as these can be signs of spoilage.
- Size: Dungeness crabs come in various sizes, ranging from 1.5 to 3 pounds. The larger the crab, the more meat you’ll get, but the smaller crabs tend to be sweeter and more tender.
- Seasonality: Dungeness crab is typically in season from November to June, with the peak season being from December to May. If you’re buying frozen crab, it’s likely been caught during the peak season and flash-frozen to preserve its quality.
Thawing and Cleaning Your Dungeness Crab
Before cooking your Dungeness crab, you’ll need to thaw it if it’s frozen and clean it. Here’s how:
- Thawing: To thaw frozen Dungeness crab, simply leave it in the refrigerator overnight or thaw it under cold running water. Never thaw crab at room temperature, as this can cause bacterial growth.
- Cleaning: To clean your Dungeness crab, start by rinsing it under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the shell and remove any remaining dirt. Finally, pat the crab dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Cooking Methods for Dungeness Crab
There are several ways to cook Dungeness crab, including steaming, boiling, and roasting. Here are some methods to try:
Steaming Dungeness Crab
Steaming is a great way to cook Dungeness crab, as it helps preserve the delicate flavor and texture of the meat. Here’s how to steam your crab:
- Equipment: You’ll need a large pot with a steamer basket and a lid. You can also use a steamer pot with a built-in strainer.
- Instructions: Fill the pot with 2-3 inches of water and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and place the crab in the steamer basket. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the crab for 8-10 minutes per pound, or until it’s cooked through.
Boiling Dungeness Crab
Boiling is another popular method for cooking Dungeness crab. Here’s how to boil your crab:
- Equipment: You’ll need a large pot with a lid. A pot with a built-in strainer is ideal, as it makes it easy to remove the crab from the water.
- Instructions: Fill the pot with enough water to cover the crab and add 1-2 tablespoons of salt. Bring the water to a boil and carefully add the crab. Cover the pot with a lid and boil the crab for 5-7 minutes per pound, or until it’s cooked through.
Roasting Dungeness Crab
Roasting is a great way to add flavor to your Dungeness crab. Here’s how to roast your crab:
- Equipment: You’ll need a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
- Instructions: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the crab under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the crab on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with melted butter or olive oil. Roast the crab in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes per pound, or until it’s cooked through.
Serving and Enjoying Your Dungeness Crab
Once your Dungeness crab is cooked, it’s time to enjoy it. Here are some tips for serving and eating your crab:
- Cracking and Picking: To crack and pick your crab, you’ll need a crab cracker or nutcracker and a fork. Start by cracking the shell along the edges and then use the fork to gently pry out the meat.
- Dipping Sauces: Dungeness crab is delicious with a variety of dipping sauces, including melted butter, cocktail sauce, and lemon wedges.
- Sides: Serve your Dungeness crab with a variety of sides, such as steamed vegetables, corn on the cob, or a green salad.
Tips and Variations for Cooking Dungeness Crab
Here are some tips and variations to help you get the most out of your Dungeness crab:
- Seasoning: Add flavor to your Dungeness crab by seasoning it with salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices before cooking.
- Marinating: Marinate your Dungeness crab in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs before cooking for added flavor.
- Combining with Other Ingredients: Combine your Dungeness crab with other ingredients, such as garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, for a delicious and flavorful dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Dungeness Crab
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking Dungeness crab:
- Overcooking: Dungeness crab can become tough and rubbery if it’s overcooked. Make sure to cook it until it’s just done, and then remove it from the heat.
- Undercooking: Undercooked Dungeness crab can be a food safety risk. Make sure to cook it until it’s opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
- Not Cleaning the Crab: Failing to clean the crab properly can result in a gritty or dirty texture. Make sure to rinse the crab under cold water and scrub it with a soft-bristled brush before cooking.
Conclusion
Cooking Dungeness crab from Costco is a delicious and easy way to enjoy this seafood delicacy. By following the tips and methods outlined in this article, you can ensure that your crab is cooked to perfection and enjoyed by you and your family. Whether you prefer to steam, boil, or roast your crab, there’s a method to suit every taste and preference. So next time you’re at Costco, be sure to pick up a few Dungeness crabs and give one of these methods a try.
What is the best way to cook Dungeness crab from Costco?
Cooking Dungeness crab from Costco can be done in a variety of ways, but the most popular method is steaming. Steaming helps preserve the delicate flavor and texture of the crab. To steam the crab, fill a large pot with 2-3 inches of water and add 2-3 tablespoons of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then place the crab in a steamer basket over the boiling water. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 8-10 minutes per pound.
It’s essential to note that the crab should be thawed before cooking. If the crab is frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator or under cold running water before steaming. Also, make sure to clean the crab under cold running water before cooking to remove any dirt or debris.
How do I thaw frozen Dungeness crab from Costco?
Thawing frozen Dungeness crab from Costco is a straightforward process. The recommended method is to thaw the crab in the refrigerator. Simply place the crab in a leak-proof bag or a covered container on the middle or bottom shelf of the refrigerator. Allow 6-8 hours of thawing time for every pound of crab. It’s essential to keep the crab refrigerated at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below to prevent bacterial growth.
Alternatively, you can thaw the crab under cold running water. Place the crab in a leak-proof bag and submerge it in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes to keep it cold. It will take around 30 minutes to an hour to thaw 1-2 pounds of crab using this method.
How long does it take to cook Dungeness crab from Costco?
The cooking time for Dungeness crab from Costco depends on the size of the crab and the cooking method. Steaming is the most popular method, and it takes around 8-10 minutes per pound to cook the crab. For example, a 2-pound crab will take around 16-20 minutes to cook. It’s essential to check the crab for doneness by twisting off one of the legs. If it comes off easily, the crab is cooked.
It’s also important to note that the crab should be cooked immediately after thawing. If you don’t plan to cook the crab right away, it’s best to keep it refrigerated at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below to prevent bacterial growth.
Can I boil Dungeness crab from Costco instead of steaming?
Yes, you can boil Dungeness crab from Costco instead of steaming. Boiling is a popular method, especially for larger crabs. To boil the crab, fill a large pot with enough water to cover the crab. Add 2-3 tablespoons of salt for every quart of water. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then carefully place the crab into the pot. Cover the pot with a lid and boil for 5-7 minutes per pound.
It’s essential to note that boiling can be a bit more challenging than steaming, as it’s easier to overcook the crab. To avoid overcooking, check the crab frequently during the cooking time. Also, make sure to clean the crab under cold running water before boiling to remove any dirt or debris.
How do I clean Dungeness crab from Costco before cooking?
Cleaning Dungeness crab from Costco before cooking is a simple process. Rinse the crab under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the shell and legs. Remove any visible dirt or debris from the shell and legs. You can also use a small amount of white vinegar to help loosen any dirt or debris.
After cleaning the crab, pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the crab cook more evenly and prevents it from becoming too soggy. Make sure to clean the crab immediately before cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
Can I cook Dungeness crab from Costco in the oven?
Yes, you can cook Dungeness crab from Costco in the oven. Oven-roasting is a great way to cook the crab, especially for smaller crabs. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the crab under cold running water and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the crab on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and dot the top with butter or olive oil. Roast the crab in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes per pound.
It’s essential to note that oven-roasting can be a bit more challenging than steaming or boiling, as it’s easier to overcook the crab. To avoid overcooking, check the crab frequently during the cooking time. Also, make sure to clean the crab under cold running water before roasting to remove any dirt or debris.
How do I store leftover Dungeness crab from Costco?
Storing leftover Dungeness crab from Costco requires proper handling and storage to prevent bacterial growth. After cooking, allow the crab to cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate the crab in a covered container at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. The crab can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
If you don’t plan to consume the crab within 3-5 days, it’s best to freeze it. Place the crab in a freezer-safe bag or container and store it in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below. The crab can be stored in the freezer for up to 6-8 months. When you’re ready to eat the crab, simply thaw it in the refrigerator or under cold running water and reheat it until steaming hot.