How To Eat Steamed Maryland Blue Crabs

Enjoying Steamed Maryland Blue Crabs

Steamed Maryland blue crabs are a delicious delicacy that can be enjoyed with friends and family. Eating these crabs can be a messy but enjoyable experience. Here are some tips on how to eat steamed Maryland blue crabs like a pro:

Tools You’ll Need

Before you start digging into your crabs, make sure you have the right tools on hand:

• Crab mallet or wooden mallet
• Crab knife or seafood pick
• Roll of paper towels
• Plenty of napkins

Step 1: Get Ready to Dig In

Before you start eating, it’s a good idea to protect your workspace with newspaper or butcher paper. Steamed crabs can be messy, so having a designated area for cracking and picking the meat is essential.

Step 2: Start with the Claws

Use your crab mallet or wooden mallet to gently crack the claws. Once cracked, use your seafood pick or crab knife to extract the meat from the claws. The sweet, tender meat inside the claws is a true delicacy.

Step 3: Move on to the Legs

Next, focus on the legs. Use your hands to break off the legs and then use your seafood pick to extract the meat from the thin, delicate legs. This part can be a bit tricky, but the effort is worth it for the delicious meat inside.

Step 4: Crack the Body

Now it’s time to tackle the body of the crab. Use your hands to break the body in half, exposing the lump crab meat inside. Use your crab knife or seafood pick to carefully extract the meat from the body. Take your time and savor the sweet, succulent meat.

Step 5: Don’t Forget the Mustard

Inside the body of the crab, you’ll find a yellowish substance known as the “mustard.” This is actually the crab’s hepatopancreas and is considered a delicacy by many crab enthusiasts. Some people like to spread it on a cracker, while others prefer to mix it with the crab meat for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 6: Clean Up

Once you’ve enjoyed all the meat from your crabs, it’s time to clean up. Use plenty of napkins and paper towels to wipe your hands and face, and be sure to discard any leftover shells and scraps in a designated trash bag.

Enjoying the Experience

Eating steamed Maryland blue crabs is not just about the delicious meat; it’s also about the experience of cracking, picking, and savoring each bite. So, gather your friends and family, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the messy, flavorful adventure of eating steamed Maryland blue crabs.

Remember, the key to enjoying steamed Maryland blue crabs is to take your time, savor each bite, and embrace the messy, hands-on experience. With the right tools and a little patience, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a steamed crab aficionado.