How to Cook Crab Legs

Crab legs are a wonderful delicacy for seafood-lovers. They are meaty enough to satisfy but light enough to have as a treat between meals. Crab legs are good sources of protein and minerals, which are essential for good health. There are several types to choose from, all of which can be cooked in a matter of minutes. Learn how to cook crab legs as a culinary surprise for friends and family.

Nutrients in Crab Legs

Crab meat is not only succulent, but nutrient-dense as well. Crab legs provide plenty of protein, calcium, magnesium and potassium. These nutrients play important roles in muscle function, bone restoration and dental health. Crab legs also have traces of iron, selenium, chromium and zinc, which improve blood pressure, cell creation and metabolism.

Buying the Best Crab Legs

Before you learn how to cook crab legs, you should know a little about the variety available. Crab legs differ in size, flavor and tenderness. While some originate from fresh waters, others are from salty waters. King crab legs, for instance, are the largest but tend to be the most expensive too. Jonah, Southern Tanner and snow crab legs have a sweeter, delicate flavor. Others find Dungeness crabs the most succulent and delicious.

How to Cook Crab Legs the Right Way

Crab legs are often sold frozen. The best way to thaw them is in the fridge overnight. For a quick defrost, soak crabs in cold water for 30 minutes to 1 hour. If fresh, try to cook them within 2 days.

How to Cook Crab Legs by boiling

Step 1:
Fill two thirds of a large pot with water. Add a dash of salt and bring to a low boil.

Step 2:
Fold or tuck crab legs and drop them into pot of boiling water. Cook for 5 minutes.

Step 3:
Fish crab legs out with tongs and cut shell open with sharp sears. Season them with butter, garlic and salt. Serve.

How to Cook Crab Legs in the Oven

Step 1:
Thaw crab legs in fridge overnight and rinse under cool water. Preheat oven to 375 F.

Step 2:
Place the legs still inside the shell on the top grill rack or plate. Rack or plate should have openings or holes.

Step 3:
Fill half of a large baking dish with hot water and place it on the rack right underneath the crab legs to catch moisture. Bake for half an hour.

Step 4:
After roughly 30 minutes, use one crab leg to check if meat is ready. Cut open the shell. If it is cooked, it will be hot. If the meat is still cool, continue baking crab legs for another 10 minutes.

Crab legs are a tender, delicious meal you can share with your guests. They can be cooked effortlessly by boiling, baking or steaming. Be careful not to overcook or over-season crab meat. Whenever you can, leave meat inside the shell as it makes crab legs more succulent. Serve with tartar sauce, salsa verde, homemade mayonnaise or garlic butter. Try our other crab recipes and enjoy!. Cheers!