How to Cook Crab Claws

How to Cook Crab Claws

Cooking crab claws is easy and quick, and they make for a delicious appetizer or main course. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen crab claws, the steps below will help you prepare them perfectly.

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Ingredients

(Serves 2-4)

• 1-2 pounds crab claws (fresh or frozen)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Crab Claws

• If using frozen crab claws, thaw them in the refrigerator for several hours or run them under cold water for about 10-15 minutes.
• If the crab claws have not been pre-cracked, you may need a seafood cracker or nutcracker to break the shells when eating.

2. Boil the Crab Claws

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water to enhance the flavor.
• Once the water is boiling, add the crab claws and let them cook for 5-7 minutes for pre-cooked (frozen) claws, or 10-12 minutes for raw crab claws.
• The shells should turn bright red, and the meat inside should be opaque when done.
• Drain the crab claws and transfer them to a serving platter.

3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

• While the crab claws are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant, but not browned.
• Stir in the lemon juice, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.

4. Serve the Crab Claws

• Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over the crab claws or serve it on the side for dipping.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing.

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Tips

• Serve with Dipping Sauces: In addition to garlic butter, try serving with cocktail sauce, mustard sauce, or a simple aioli for extra flavor.
• Cracking the Claws: Use a seafood cracker to gently crack open the hard shell, exposing the tender crab meat.
• Sides: Serve crab claws with a side of crispy fries, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

This simple method for cooking crab claws ensures tender, flavorful crab that’s perfect for dipping in garlic butter or your favorite sauce. 🦀🧄🍋