Cooking Alaskan King Crabs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cook King Crab

Alaskan King Crab, with its rich flavor and tender meat, is a luxurious seafood delicacy that turns any meal into a feast. Whether you're planning a special dinner or just want to indulge in a seafood treat, knowing how to cook Alaskan King Crab legs properly is key to enjoying their succulent taste to the fullest. In this blog, we'll explore different methods including how to cook king crab legs, particularly focusing on steaming, boiling, and baking, as well as tips for cooking them from frozen.

Understanding Alaskan King Crab Varieties

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s differentiate between the types of Alaskan king crab. The most common are the Red King Crab, Golden King Crab, and the colossal Blue King Crab. Each type offers a unique flavor and texture, with the Red King Crab being the most sought-after for its sweet, tender meat.

Preparing King Crab Legs for Cooking

Most Alaskan king crab legs you buy will be pre-cooked and frozen. Thawing them properly is crucial. For the best results, place the frozen king crab legs in the refrigerator a day before you plan to cook them. This slow thawing ensures the crab meat maintains its delicate texture and flavor.

Steaming King Crab Legs

Steaming is a popular method for how to cook king crab legs, as it heats the crab gently, preserving its moisture and flavor.

1. Fill a large pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil.
2. Place the crab legs in a steamer basket or insert and cover the pot.
3. Steam for about 5-6 minutes if thawed, and 10 minutes if frozen.
4. Remove from the pot and serve with melted butter and lemon wedges.

Boiling King Crab Legs

Boiling is another effective method, especially for cooking king crab legs from frozen.

1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the crab legs and bring it to a boil.
2. Add a tablespoon of salt and the crab legs.
3. If thawed, boil for about 4 minutes. For frozen legs, boil for 8-10 minutes.
4. Remove the legs with tongs and serve.

How Long to Boil King Crab Legs?

The boiling time varies based on whether the king crab legs are frozen or thawed. Thawed legs require about 4 minutes, while frozen ones need up to 10 minutes.

Baking King Crab Legs

For a more intense flavor, try a baked king crab legs recipe.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the crab legs in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Brush them with melted butter and season as desired.
4. Bake for about 10 minutes for thawed legs and a few minutes longer for frozen.
5. Serve hot with lemon slices and butter.

How to Cook Frozen King Crab Legs

If you didn't have time to thaw your king crab legs, you can still cook them perfectly. The key is to increase the cooking time slightly, whether you’re steaming, boiling, or baking them.

Finishing Touches: Serving Your King Crab

Once your Alaskan king crab legs are cooked, serve them with dipping sauces like melted butter or a garlic-lemon butter sauce. For a complete meal, pair them with sides like roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a fresh salad.

King Crab Recipe Ideas

Apart from the classic steamed, boiled, or baked king crab legs, you can incorporate the meat into various dishes. Some popular king crab recipes include king crab bisque, crab cakes, or a king crab salad.

Conclusion

Cooking Alaskan King Crab legs at home is simple and rewarding. Whether you choose to steam, boil, or bake, remember the key is to not overcook them to maintain their succulent texture and rich flavor. With these tips and techniques, you can prepare a seafood feast that rivals any high-end restaurant.

Enjoy the luxury of Alaskan king crab in your own home and impress your guests with your culinary skills. Bon appétit!

FAQ: Cooking Alaskan King Crab

Q: How do I know when the king crab legs are fully cooked?
A: If you're cooking pre-cooked frozen crab legs (which is most common), they are done when they are heated through. This usually takes about 5-6 minutes when steaming, 4 minutes when boiling thawed legs (8-10 minutes if from frozen), and 10 minutes when baking.

Q: Can I cook king crab legs in the microwave?
A: While not the preferred method, you can cook king crab legs in the microwave. Wrap them in a damp paper towel and heat on high for about 2-3 minutes. Be cautious, as this method can cause the meat to become tough if overdone.

Q: Should I rinse king crab legs before cooking?
A: Yes, it's a good idea to rinse them under cold water to remove any ice glaze and excess salt.

Q: What's the best way to cut king crab legs?
A: Use kitchen shears to cut through the shell. Cut along the length of the leg and pry open the shell to access the meat.

Q: How long can I store cooked king crab legs?
A: Cooked king crab legs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them in airtight containers.

Q: Can I reuse the shells of king crab legs?
A: Absolutely! The shells can be used to make a flavorful seafood stock.

Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with king crab?
A: Simple sides like steamed vegetables, garlic butter potatoes, or a light salad complement the richness of king crab well.

Q: Are there any quick tips for a more flavorful king crab experience?
A: Experiment with different dipping sauces like garlic butter, herbed mayonnaise, or even spicy aioli for a unique twist.

Q: Is there a significant taste difference between Red, Golden, and Blue King Crab?
A: Yes, each has its unique flavor. Red King Crab is the most prized for its sweet, tender meat, while Golden King Crab is slightly milder, and Blue King Crab is known for its large size and rich flavor.

Q: What's the best way to thaw frozen king crab legs?
A: The best way is to place them in the refrigerator overnight. Avoid thawing them at room temperature or under hot water, as this can affect the texture.