Craving tender, flavorful snow crab but not sure how to cook it just right? You’re in the perfect place.
Cooking snow crab might seem tricky, but with the right steps, you can easily prepare a delicious meal that tastes like it’s from a fancy seafood restaurant. Whether you want to boil, steam, grill, or bake your crab legs, this guide will walk you through simple methods that bring out the best flavor and texture.
Keep reading to discover easy tips and tricks that will make your snow crab dinner a guaranteed hit every time.
Selecting Snow Crab
Fresh snow crab often has a sweet, ocean smell and firm meat. It should feel heavy for its size. Avoid crabs with a fishy odor or slimy shell. Frozen snow crab is convenient and usually flash-frozen to keep flavor. Check the package date and avoid long-frozen products.
Choose crab legs that are thick and have intact shells. Thin legs may have less meat. Bright orange or red shells show good quality. Look for minimal cracks or damage on the shell.
| Criteria | Fresh Snow Crab | Frozen Snow Crab |
|---|---|---|
| Smell | Sweet, ocean-like | Neutral or no smell |
| Weight | Heavy for size | Depends on freezing method |
| Shell | Bright, intact | Bright, intact if well-packaged |
| Storage | Use quickly | Check date, avoid old stock |
Preparing Crab Legs
Frozen snow crab legs need proper thawing before cooking. The best way is to place them in the refrigerator for 8-12 hours. This slow thaw keeps the meat juicy and fresh. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacteria growth.
Once thawed, rinse the legs under cold water to remove any ice or frost. Use kitchen scissors or a sharp knife to trim away any sharp spikes or broken shell pieces carefully. This makes eating easier and safer.
Check for any small shell fragments and remove them before cooking. Pat the legs dry with a paper towel to help seasoning stick better. Proper cleaning and trimming prepare the crab legs for the best flavor and texture.
Boiling Method
Use a large pot filled with water and a tablespoon of salt for seasoning. Some add lemon slices or Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the snow crab legs. Boil the crab legs for about 4 to 6 minutes. Overcooking can make the meat tough and dry.
Make sure the water covers the crab legs completely. Use tongs to remove them carefully. Let the crab legs drain well before serving. Serve with melted butter or lemon wedges for a simple, tasty meal.
Steaming Method
Fill a large pot with about 2 inches of water. Place a steaming rack or basket inside the pot. Make sure the water level is below the rack. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid to trap steam.
Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce to medium heat to maintain steady steam. Place the snow crab legs on the rack in a single layer.
Steam the crab legs for 5 to 7 minutes if thawed. For frozen legs, steam for about 10 to 12 minutes. Avoid overcooking to keep the meat tender and juicy.
Use tongs to remove the crab legs carefully. Let them cool slightly before serving. Steaming preserves the crab’s sweet flavor and perfect texture.
Broiling Snow Crab
Snow crab legs should be thawed before broiling for even cooking. Cut the legs at the joints to fit on the broiler pan. Arrange them in a single layer with the meat side up.
Set the broiler temperature to 450°F (230°C). Broil the crab legs for 5 to 7 minutes. Watch closely to avoid overcooking. The meat should turn opaque and slightly browned.
Turn the legs once halfway through broiling for even heat. Serve with melted butter or lemon wedges for added flavor.
Grilling Crab Legs
Marinating crab legs adds flavor and keeps them juicy. Simple options include lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil. A mix of butter, herbs, and spices also works well. Let the legs sit in the marinade for about 15 minutes before grilling.
Set the grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. Place crab legs on the grill with the shell side down. Grill for about 4 to 5 minutes, then flip and grill for another 3 to 4 minutes. Avoid overcooking to keep the meat tender.
Use tongs to handle the legs. Watch for a nice char without burning. Serve hot with melted butter or your favorite dipping sauce.
Flavor Enhancements
Garlic butter sauce makes snow crab taste rich and delicious. Melt butter slowly in a pan. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour this sauce over warm crab legs for a tasty treat. Garlic butter brings out the natural sweetness of the crab meat.
Lemon juice adds a fresh, zesty flavor. Squeeze fresh lemon over the crab just before eating. It brightens the taste and balances the richness of the butter.
For extra flavor, sprinkle simple seasonings like old bay, black pepper, or paprika. These spices give the crab a gentle kick without overpowering it. Serve crab with a small bowl of garlic butter sauce and lemon wedges on the side for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
Snow crab pairs well with simple side dishes. Try steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. A fresh green salad adds crunch and color. Warm garlic bread or dinner rolls complement the crab’s sweetness.
Rice or mashed potatoes work great to soak up sauces. For a light touch, serve with lemon wedges and melted butter. The butter enhances the crab’s natural flavor.
Presentation matters. Arrange crab legs on a large platter. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill. Use bright lemon slices for a splash of color.
Serve with small bowls of dipping sauces. Garlic butter, cocktail sauce, or spicy mayo are popular choices. Place crab crackers and picks nearby for easy eating.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Overcooking snow crab makes the meat tough and dry. Cook it just until it turns pink and steams well. Use a timer to avoid guessing. Crab cooks quickly, usually in 4-6 minutes.
Underseasoning hides the crab’s natural sweet flavor. Sprinkle salt, lemon, or garlic butter for a tasty bite. Use enough seasoning to make the crab tasty but not salty. Simple flavors work best.
Storage And Leftovers
Keep snow crab legs in the fridge at below 40°F (4°C). Use an airtight container or wrap them well with plastic wrap. They stay fresh for up to 2 days. Avoid leaving crab legs out at room temperature for long.
To reheat, use gentle methods to keep the crab moist. Steaming is best; place crab legs over boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, wrapped in foil to keep moisture.
Microwaving is quick but can dry out meat. Heat crab legs in short bursts of 30 seconds with a damp paper towel over them. Avoid overheating to keep the crab tender and juicy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Way To Cook Snow Crabs?
Steam snow crab legs for 5-7 minutes to retain flavor and moisture. Serve with melted butter and lemon. Avoid boiling to preserve taste.
Is It Better To Steam Or Boil Snow Crab Legs?
Steaming snow crab legs preserves their natural flavor and moisture better than boiling. Boiling can dilute taste and dry out the meat. Steam cooks gently and keeps crab legs tender and juicy, making it the preferred cooking method for the best texture and flavor.
How To Cook Snow Crab From A Grocery Store?
Boil water with salt in a large pot. Add snow crab legs and simmer 4-6 minutes. Drain and serve with butter.
What Part Of A Snow Crab Can You Not Eat?
Avoid eating the snow crab’s lungs or gills, known as “Devil’s Fingers. ” They taste unpleasant and are not edible.
Conclusion
Cooking snow crab is simple and rewarding. Steaming keeps the meat juicy and flavorful. Boiling works but may wash away taste. Grilling adds a smoky touch for variety. Use fresh or properly thawed crab legs. Add lemon, garlic, or butter for extra flavor.
Serve hot and enjoy the sweet, tender meat. With these easy steps, anyone can prepare a delicious snow crab meal. Try different methods to find what you like best. Cooking snow crab at home brings restaurant taste to your table.
