The Essential Guide to Alaskan King Crab

The Essential Guide to Alaskan King Crab

Ultimate Guide to Alaskan King Crab

Alaskan King Crab Guide

Welcome to your go-to guide for everything Alaskan King Crab!

These Alaskan King Crab legs, known for their remarkable size ranging from 9 to 12 inches, are sourced from the pristine cold waters of Alaska. Prized for their sweet, succulent meat, they offer a truly indulgent dining experience. Whether you choose to steam, boil, or grill them, these King Crab legs are a delicacy that will captivate any seafood lover. Pair them with melted butter and a squeeze of lemon for an unforgettable meal.

ORIGIN: USA
SIZE: 9-12 INCHES
USES: Steam and serve with butter, Crab Cakes, Sushi
TASTE: Sweet and Succulent Meat

Preparation Guide

Thawing Crab:

  • Refrigerator Method: Thaw in the fridge for 12-24 hours for best texture and flavor.
  • Cold Water Method: Submerge in cold water, changing every 30 minutes until thawed.

Storing:

  • Refrigeration: Store thawed crab in the fridge for up to 2 days in a sealed container.
  • Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 6 months.

Cooking Instructions

Steamed Alaskan King Crab Legs with Butter and Lemon

  1. Place a steamer tray in a large pot.
  2. Add just enough water to cover the bottom of the pot, ensuring it doesn't touch the steamer tray.
  3. Heat the water on high until it reaches a boil.
  4. Once boiling, add the crab legs to the pot.
  5. Cover the pot and steam the crab legs for 5 minutes.
  6. Remove the crab legs from the pot.
  7. Serve immediately with melted butter and lemon wedges

Cool Facts About Alaskan King Crab

  • Alaskan king crabs can reach impressive sizes, with females up to 10.5 lbs and males up to 24 lbs. They can live 20-30 years, growing throughout their lives.
  • Their blood is blue due to hemocyanin, a copper-based pigment that turns blue when oxygenated, helping them survive in cold, low-pressure environments.
  • King crabs form pods, stacking on top of each other as a defense against predators. These pods can be several feet high and contain thousands of crabs.

Side Dishes for Alaskan King Crab

  • Garlic Butter Asparagus: Sautéed asparagus with garlic and butter.
  • Lemon Herb Rice Pilaf: Rice with lemon zest, parsley, and thyme.
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Roasted sprouts with crispy bacon.
  • Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth potatoes with butter and cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do king crabs live?

A: Red king crabs can live up to 20-30 years

Q: How many eggs does a king crab lay?

A: An adult female Alaskan King Crab can lay between 45,000 and 500,000 eggs per year!

Q: Why is king crab so expensive?

A: King crab has a short harvesting season, which leads to limited availability

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