Seafoods are celebrated for their delectable flavors and delicate cooking methods, whether it is cooking shrimp or crab legs. While fresh crab legs are not readily available, the best alternative to savor the delicious flavors of crab meat is to cook frozen crab legs. Frozen crab legs are a convenient alternative with the same delicious flavors. However, there are techniques to cook frozen crab legs to perfection to preserve their flavor and texture. This guide will help you master the art of cooking frozen crab legs with simple methods and tips, whether you are cooking king crabs or snow crabs.
Preparing Frozen Crab Legs
The preparation of frozen crab legs before cooking is to defrost them. When it comes to fresh or frozen crab legs, frozen options are often more accessible but are as delicious as fresh ones. Here’s how to prepare frozen cooked crab legs for cooking.
- The first step is to thaw your frozen crab legs in the refrigerator overnight. However, if you’re short on time, you can also place them under cold running water until they’re thawed.
- After thawing, rinse the crab legs to remove any ice crystals and pat them dry.
Methods to Cook Frozen Crab Legs
Boiling
Boiling is one of the simplest ways to cook crab legs frozen. It’s quick and retains the crab’s natural flavors.
- Fill a large pot with boiling water and add a pinch of salt.
- Submerge the crab legs in the water.
- For snow crab legs, cook for about 4-5 minutes. For king crab legs, cook for 6-8 minutes.
- Use tongs to remove the crab legs from the water. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
Steaming
Steaming is a preferred method of cooking liked by many people as it preserves the crab’s moisture and natural flavor.
- Place a steamer basket in a large pot filled with about two inches of water.
- Heat the water until it starts boiling.
- Arrange the crab legs in the steamer basket.
- Steam for 5-7 minutes for snow crab legs and 7-10 minutes for king crab legs.
- Remove from the pot and serve hot with lemon juice and dipping sauce.
Baking
The baking method of cooking crab legs is convenient and effective in adding more flavor and texture to frozen crab legs. Baking infuses extra flavors into the crab legs and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Set your oven to 375°F.
- Arrange the crab legs on a baking sheet. Season them with lemon juice and melted butter for extra flavor.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes for snow crab legs and 20-25 minutes for king crab legs.
- Serve the crab legs with lemon wedges and a small bowl of melted butter.
- Enhance the flavors of your baked crab legs with Garlic Butter, Spicy Aioli, and Herb Butter dipping sauces.
How Long to Cook Frozen Crab Legs
The cooking time for frozen crab legs varies depending on the type and size of the crab.
Snow Crab Legs
Boil for 4-5 minutes, steam for 5-7 minutes, or bake for 15-20 minutes.
King Crab Legs
Boil for 6-8 minutes, steam for 7-10 minutes, or bake for 20-25 minutes.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Crab Legs
Do Not Overcook
Overcooking can make the crab meat tough and dry.
Check for Color
The crab legs should turn a bright red-orange color when done.
Use a Thermometer
The internal temperature should be around 145°F.
Serve Immediately
Crab legs are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the pot or oven.
Conclusion
Enjoy the delicious flavors of crab meat by cooking frozen crab legs with your preferred method among boiling, steaming and baking. By following the right methods and tips, you can enjoy restaurant-quality snow crab legs or king crab legs right at home. Serve your prepared frozen crab legs with your favorite dipping sauces and citrusy lemon juice to elevate their flavor profile. Cook crab and transform your cooking skills from ordinary to extraordinary. Happy cooking!