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.
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)
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.
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. 🦀🧄🍋
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