How to Steam Alaskan King Crab
Steaming Alaskan king crab is a delightful way to enjoy this succulent seafood. Not only is it a healthier cooking method compared to frying or boiling, but it also preserves the natural flavors and nutrients of the crab. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to steam Alaskan king crab like a pro.
What You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the following ingredients and equipment:
– 1-2 Alaskan king crab legs
– 1 lemon
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– A steamer basket
– A large pot with a lid
– Tongs or a fork
Preparation
1. Begin by preparing the Alaskan king crab legs. If you have whole crabs, crack the shell and remove the crabmeat. If you have already cleaned and deveined the crab legs, skip to the next step.
2. Rinse the crabmeat or legs under cold water to remove any sand or debris.
3. Pat the crabmeat or legs dry with paper towels.
4. Squeeze half of a lemon over the crabmeat to add a touch of citrus flavor.
5. Sprinkle the crabmeat or legs with salt and pepper to taste.
Steaming Process
1. Fill the pot with water and place the steamer basket inside. Make sure the water doesn’t touch the bottom of the basket.
2. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
3. Add the olive oil or butter to the steaming water. This will add a rich flavor to the crab.
4. Once the water is boiling, carefully place the crabmeat or legs into the steamer basket.
5. Cover the pot with the lid and let the crab steam for about 8-10 minutes, or until the crab is heated through and the meat is opaque.
6. While the crab is steaming, preheat your serving plate in the oven or on the stovetop to keep the crab warm once it’s done.
Serving Suggestions
1. Once the crab is steamed, remove it from the steamer basket using tongs or a fork.
2. Transfer the crab to the preheated serving plate.
3. Drizzle a little olive oil or melted butter over the crab, if desired.
4. Garnish with additional lemon slices or chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill.
5. Serve the steamed Alaskan king crab immediately while it’s still hot and juicy.
Enjoy your delicious steamed Alaskan king crab, a true delicacy that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
