Live Alaskan King Crab

Steaming a live Alaska King Crab is a fantastic way to enjoy its fresh and sweet flavor. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to steam a live Alaska King Crab:

Ingredients and Equipment:

• Live Alaska King Crab
• Large pot with a steaming rack or a steamer basket
• Water
• Salt (optional)
• Melted butter for serving
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Steaming Setup:
   • Set up your large pot with a steaming rack or use a dedicated steamer basket. If you don’t have a steaming rack or basket, you can improvise by placing a heatproof plate or aluminum foil balls in the bottom of the pot to lift the crab above the water level.
2. Add Water:
   • Pour about 1 to 2 inches of water into the bottom of the pot. You want enough water to create steam but not so much that it touches the crab.
3. Heat the Water:
   • Place the pot on the stove and bring the water to a boil.
4. Prep the Crab:
   • While the water is heating, you’ll want to prepare the live Alaska King Crab. Be cautious, as live crabs can be quite active. Using tongs or gloves, grasp the crab from behind and gently lift it into the pot. Place it on the steaming rack or in the steamer basket.
5. Cover and Steam:
   • Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer. Steam the live Alaska King Crab for about 10 to 15 minutes per pound of crab. For example, if your crab weighs 3 pounds, steam it for 30 to 45 minutes.
6. Check for Doneness:
   • To ensure the crab is done, check the color of the shell. It should turn a bright orange-red, and the crab’s legs should become firm and slightly curled. Also, you can gently pull off one of the smaller legs; the meat should be opaque and easy to remove.
7. Serve:
   • Carefully remove the steamed Alaska King Crab from the pot and place it on a large serving platter. Serve it hot with melted butter, lemon wedges, and any other preferred dipping sauces.

Remember to exercise caution when handling live crabs, and always follow safety guidelines for cooking seafood. Steaming is an excellent method for preserving the natural flavor and sweetness of live Alaska King Crab.