How to Cook Dungeness Crab

Table of Contents

 Crab is a delicacy that many people enjoy, but cooking it can be intimidating. Dungeness crab, in particular, can be a challenge due to its tough exterior and sharp claws. However, with the right technique, you can cook Dungeness crab like a pro. In this article, we'll go over the steps to cook Dungeness crab and provide some tips to make the process easier.

What is Dungeness Crab?

Dungeness crab is a species of crab that is commonly found along the West Coast of North America. It is named after the town of Dungeness in Washington state, where it was first harvested commercially. Dungeness crab is prized for its sweet, delicate meat and is often used in dishes such as crab cakes, crab bisque, and crab salad.

Ingredients

• 2-3 Dungeness crabs
• 1/2 cup salt
• 2 lemons, sliced
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped garlic

Steps to Cook Dungeness Crab

Step 1: Clean the Crab

Before cooking the crab, you'll need to clean it. Start by removing the legs and claws from the body. Next, remove the apron from the underside of the crab. Finally, remove the gills and any other innards from the body.

Step 2: Boil the Crab

Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the crab. Add the salt and lemon slices to the water. Bring the water to a boil and carefully add the crab to the pot. Boil the crab for 10-12 minutes, or until it turns red and the meat is cooked through.

Step 3: Prepare the Butter Sauce

While the crab is cooking, prepare the butter sauce. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the chopped parsley and garlic to the butter and stir to combine.

Step 4: Serve the Crab

Once the crab is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the crab with the butter sauce on the side for dipping.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantage of Dungeness crab is that its meat is delicious and sweet. However, the downside is that it is difficult to clean and cook them due to their tough skin and sharp claws.

Conclusion

Although cooking Dungeness crab can be a challenge, with the right technique, you can cook it like a pro. Follow the steps above and don't be afraid to try. With a little practice, you will become an expert at cooking Dungeness crab.

FAQs

Q: Can I replace parsley with other ingredients?

A: Yes, you can replace parsley with other ingredients such as cilantro or chives.

Q: How long should I boil Dungeness crab?

A: You should boil the Dungeness crab for 10-12 minutes, or until the skin turns red and the meat is cooked through.

Q: Can I use shrimp for this recipe?

A: No, this recipe is only for Dungeness crab.

Q: Do I need to remove the shell of Dungeness crab before cooking it?

A: No, you do not need to remove the shell of Dungeness crab before cooking it. The shell will give a delicious taste to the meat.