How To Cook Live Blue Crab

How To Cook Live Blue Crab

If you’re a seafood lover, then you know there’s something about devouring a delicious, fresh blue crab that just can’t be beaten. But if you’ve never cooked live blue crab before, don’t worry! We’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process step by step, so you can prepare a mouth-watering blue crab feast right at home.

What You’ll Need:

1. Live blue crabs
2. Large pot with a tight-fitting lid
3. Water
4. Sea salt
5. Old bay seasoning or your favorite crab seasoning blend
6. Optional: Lemon wedges and melted butter for serving

Step 1: Preparing the Crabs

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to handle the live blue crabs with care. Make sure they are fresh and lively. If any crabs are dead before cooking, discard them to ensure your meal is safe to eat.

Step 2: Boiling the Crabs

1. Fill a large pot with enough water to fully submerge the crabs.
2. Add sea salt to the water, aiming for about 1 tablespoon of salt per quart of water.
3. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
4. Gently place the live blue crabs into the pot, being cautious to avoid getting pinched.
5. Put the lid on the pot and allow the crabs to boil for about 15 minutes.
6. Remove the pot from the heat and let the crabs sit in the hot water for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 3: Seasoning Your Crab

Once the crabs are cooked, carefully lift them out of the pot using tongs or a slotted spoon. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before handling.

1. If desired, you can clean the crabs by removing the top shell and gills, known as the “apron.”
2. Generously sprinkle Old Bay seasoning or your favorite crab seasoning blend over the crabs. This step is crucial to enhance the flavor of the blue crab meat.

Step 4: Serving Your Delicious Blue Crab

Now that your blue crab is perfectly seasoned, it’s time to serve and enjoy!

You can serve the crab whole or break it apart into sections, depending on your preference. It’s customary to provide melted butter and lemon wedges on the side for dipping. Don’t forget to provide a few crab crackers and picks to help your guests extract the meat from the shells.

Savor the succulent taste of the blue crab meat and relish in the flavors that only the freshest seafood can deliver!

Now that you know how to cook live blue crab, you can wow your family and friends with your culinary skills. So, go ahead and pick up some live blue crabs, follow these steps, and indulge in a delectable feast that will leave everyone wanting more!