How to Cook Delicious Dungeness Crab Legs Perfectly Every Time

Dungeness crab legs are a real treat with their sweet delicate flavor and abundance of tasty meat. However, cooking them can seem intimidating if you’ve never done it before. Not to worry – cooking dungeness crab legs is easier than you think! With a few simple tips, you’ll be able to cook perfect crab legs at home, impressing family and friends.

In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to cook dungeness crab legs flawlessly, from thawing and prep to cooking methods and serving suggestions. Soon you’ll be enjoying tender, juicy crab legs that taste like they came from your favorite restaurant!

Ingredients for Cooking Dungeness Crab Legs

To start you’ll need

• 1-2 pounds of frozen dungeness crab legs or clusters
• Water
• Salt
• White vinegar or lemon juice (optional)
• Melted butter, lemon wedges, or your preferred dipping sauce for serving

Thawing the legs properly is crucial for even cooking. The safest method is to place the frozen legs in the refrigerator for 12-24 hours before cooking. You can also submerge the legs in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed.

Never thaw crab legs at room temperature, as bacteria can grow rapidly on raw shellfish.

Boiling Method for Cooking Crab Legs

Boiling is a simple, no-fuss way to cook dungeness crab legs to tender perfection:

• Fill a large pot with enough water to fully submerge the crab legs. Add 2 tablespoons of salt per quart of water.

• Bring the salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.

• Prepare an elevated rack or steamer basket that fits inside the pot. The legs must be suspended above the water.

• Once boiling, carefully place the crab legs in a single layer on the rack. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, until the shells turn bright orange.

• Remove the crab legs with tongs and drain on paper towels before serving.

The boiling water helps season the meat while steaming cooks it gently. Be careful not to overcook, as the meat can become tough.

Steaming Dungeness Crab Legs

Steaming is another foolproof cooking method that infuses moisture:

• Fill a pot with 2 inches of water and 2 tablespoons of vinegar or lemon juice. Bring to a boil.

• Place crab legs on a rack or steamer basket above the water. Make sure no part touches the liquid.

• Sprinkle the legs with Old Bay or other crab seasoning. Cover and steam for 8-10 minutes.

• Use tongs to transfer the crab legs to a serving platter. The shells will turn vibrant orange when fully cooked.

Steaming helps the crab meat retain its delicate sweetness. The acidity of the vinegar also helps draw out flavors.

Baking Dungeness Crab Legs

For an oven-cooked version:

• Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with foil.

• Arrange thawed crab legs on the sheet. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper or Old Bay seasoning.

• Bake for 12-15 minutes until the shells are orange and meat is opaque.

• Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the meat and twisting slightly. It should come away easily when fully cooked.

Baking is great when cooking large batches of crab legs. Just watch closely to avoid overbaking.

Grilling Dungeness Crab Legs

Grilling brings out a wonderful smoky flavor:

• Preheat an outdoor grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

• Brush the crab legs with oil or melted butter and season with Old Bay, garlic powder, paprika, etc.

• Grill the legs for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly charred.

• Move them to a cooler part of the grill if they start to burn. Cook until shells are bright orange.

Make sure to watch them carefully so they don’t dry out on the grill. Grilling works best with smaller clusters or pieces.

Serving Suggestions

Dungeness crab can be enjoyed hot off the stove or at room temperature. Here are some tasty serving ideas:

• Serve with melted butter, fresh lemon, and parsley for dipping.

• Make crab cakes by mixing the meat with breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices.

• Use in crab salad with celery, onions, and creamy dressing.

• Stuff into avocados or tomatoes for a fresh appetizer.

• Sprinkle on pasta, risotto, or frittatas.

• Add to seafood bisques, gumbos, or chowders.

The sweet crab meat also pairs wonderfully with fresh herbs, garlic, chiles, and citrus. Get creative with your own signature dipping sauces and recipes.

Storing Leftover Crab Legs

Cooked crab legs will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days:

• Store legs with shell on or crack the shells open to access the meat.

• Place in an airtight container to prevent drying out.

• Make sure to use any refrigerated leftovers within a few days.

The shells help preserve freshness. For longer storage, pick the meat and freeze for up to 3 months.

Now you’re ready to impress everyone with delicious dungeness crab legs! Follow these handy tips for tried-and-true results. Stay tuned for more recipes and ideas on how to make the most of this special seafood treat. From thawing and prepping to cooking methods and creative recipes, you’ll be enjoying crab like a pro in no time.