The Ultimate Guide to Preparing and Cooking Dungeness Crab – Tips & Recipes

by Oleg Nikitenko September 18, 2024

The Ultimate Guide to Preparing and Cooking Dungeness Crab

Dungeness crab is a prized seafood delicacy known for its sweet, tender meat and rich flavor. Whether you’re planning a seafood feast or a simple meal, learning how to properly prepare and cook Dungeness crab is key to enjoying this fresh, wild-caught treasure. This ultimate guide will take you through everything you need to know—from selecting the best crabs to preparing them, and from cooking techniques to serving suggestions.

We’ll also include some expert tips on choosing sustainably sourced crab and dive into some of the best Dungeness crab recipes. So, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find all the information you need to make your Dungeness crab experience unforgettable.

Why Dungeness Crab?

Dungeness crab, named after the port of Dungeness, Washington, is a Pacific Coast staple that’s loved for its tender, sweet, and slightly nutty flavor. Unlike other types of crab, Dungeness crabs are large, meaty, and easy to prepare. They are versatile in the kitchen and work well in a variety of dishes, from simple steamed crab to elegant crab bisques and salads.

Health Benefits of Dungeness Crab

Dungeness crab is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It’s an excellent source of protein and is low in fat, making it a healthy seafood option. According to the American Heart Association, shellfish like crab are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health, reduce inflammation, and improve brain function. Additionally, crab is a great source of important minerals such as zinc, phosphorus, and magnesium.

How to Select the Best Dungeness Crab

Before diving into cooking, it's crucial to select high-quality, fresh Dungeness crab. Here are a few tips to ensure you’re buying the best crab, whether fresh or frozen:

1. Buying Fresh Dungeness Crab

If you have access to fresh Dungeness crab, you’ll want to look for live crabs, as they maintain the best flavor and texture. Live crabs should be active and moving, with a healthy sheen to their shells. Avoid crabs that are lethargic or have a fishy odor, as this may indicate they are not fresh.

Pro Tip: When buying live crabs, check that they are heavy for their size, as this is a sign that they are full of meat.
Where to Buy: You can order premium, fresh Dungeness Crab Whole from trusted online seafood markets like Global Seafoods.

2. Buying Frozen Dungeness Crab

Frozen Dungeness crab is also an excellent option, especially if you don’t have access to fresh crab. Look for crab that has been flash-frozen shortly after being caught, as this process helps preserve its flavor and texture.

Pro Tip: Opt for crab that has been vacuum-sealed, as this prevents freezer burn and maintains freshness.
Shop Frozen Crab: For convenience, you can purchase frozen Dungeness Crab Clusters that are pre-cleaned and ready to cook.

How to Prepare Dungeness Crab

Once you've selected your crabs, the next step is preparing them for cooking. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing fresh Dungeness crab, whether you’re cooking them whole or using pre-cooked crab clusters.

1. Cleaning Live Dungeness Crab

If you’re working with live Dungeness crab, it’s essential to clean them before cooking.

Boil the Crab: Begin by boiling the live crab in salted water for 10-12 minutes. This will kill the crab and make cleaning easier.
Rinse and Cool: Once boiled, remove the crab from the water and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
Remove the Shell: Hold the crab on its back and pull off the top shell. Discard the gills and any internal organs.
Rinse the Crab Again: Thoroughly rinse the cleaned crab to remove any remaining debris.

2. Preparing Frozen Dungeness Crab Clusters

Frozen Dungeness crab clusters come pre-cooked and cleaned, so you can skip the preparation process and move straight to cooking. Simply thaw the crab clusters overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water for quicker thawing.

Pro Tip: Avoid refreezing thawed crab, as this can affect the texture and flavor.

Best Cooking Methods for Dungeness Crab

Now that your crab is cleaned and ready, it’s time to cook. Dungeness crab is incredibly versatile and can be prepared using a variety of methods. Here are the most popular cooking techniques:

1. Steaming Dungeness Crab

Steaming is one of the best ways to cook Dungeness crab because it preserves the delicate flavor and moisture of the meat. Here’s how to steam crab:

Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt or a splash of vinegar to the water for extra flavor.
- Place a steaming rack or basket in the pot and add the crab, ensuring it is not submerged in water.
- Cover the pot and steam for 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of the crab.
- Serve with melted butter, garlic sauce, or lemon wedges.
Perfect Pairing: Serve your steamed crab with a side of garlic butter and crusty bread for a delicious, simple meal.

2. Boiling Dungeness Crab

Boiling is another popular method and is perfect for cooking large quantities of crab at once. Here’s how to do it:

Instructions:
- Fill a large pot with water, add salt and seasonings (such as bay leaves or Old Bay seasoning), and bring to a boil.
- Add the crab and boil for 12-15 minutes.
- Drain the water and rinse the crab under cold water to stop the cooking.
Tip: Add potatoes, corn, and sausage to the pot for a full crab boil feast.

3. Grilled Dungeness Crab

For a smoky, rich flavor, grilling Dungeness crab is an excellent option. It adds a charred, caramelized crust to the sweet crab meat.

Instructions:
- Split the crab into halves or quarters and brush with olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
- Grill over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and garlic butter.

4. Baking Dungeness Crab

Baking crab is an easy, hands-off method that allows you to infuse the crab with herbs, spices, and butter.

Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Place the cleaned crab or crab clusters on a baking sheet, drizzle with melted butter, and season with garlic, parsley, and lemon.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes.
Serving Tip: Serve baked crab with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.

Delicious Dungeness Crab Recipes

Now that you know the best ways to cook Dungeness crab, let’s look at some mouthwatering recipes that are sure to impress your guests:

1. Classic Dungeness Crab Salad

This light and refreshing salad is perfect for showcasing the sweet flavor of Dungeness crab.

Ingredients:
- Fresh crab meat
- Mixed greens
- Avocado
- Lemon vinaigrette

2. Dungeness Crab Bisque

For a rich and creamy dish, try making crab bisque with fresh Dungeness crab.

Ingredients:
- Fresh or frozen crab meat
- Heavy cream
- Sherry
- Aromatics like garlic, onion, and thyme

Sustainability and Sourcing Dungeness Crab

Sustainability is essential when it comes to seafood. Dungeness crab populations are generally well-managed and are considered a sustainable choice. According to Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch, Dungeness crab is one of the most sustainable crab species, with responsible harvesting practices ensuring healthy populations.

When purchasing crab, look for sources that prioritize sustainability, such as Global Seafoods , which offers responsibly sourced, wild-caught Dungeness crab.

FAQs About Dungeness Crab

How do I store cooked Dungeness crab?
Store cooked Dungeness crab in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the crab in a vacuum-sealed bag for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze Dungeness crab?
Yes, you can freeze both fresh and cooked Dungeness crab. Be sure to store it in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag to prevent freezer burn.

What is the best way to crack Dungeness crab?
Use a crab cracker or the back of a heavy knife to gently crack the shell. Take care not to crush the meat inside.

For more seafood tips and recipes, visit the Global Seafoods YouTube Channel .

Explore Premium Seafood Products: