Here are the steps on how to cook the claws of the spider crab:
Step 1: Purchase the Crab Claws
The first step is to purchase the fresh spider crab claws, which can be found in most grocery or seafood markets. It’s important to select the freshest ones to ensure the best taste and texture.
Step 2: Clean the Crab Claws
Before cooking the crab claws, rinse them under cold running water to get rid of any loose particles, sand or debris. Use scissors to cut off the sharp tips and edges and discard them. Remove the crab leg from the claw if still attached to the claw. Then, use a cracker or nutcracker to crush the claw gently so it’s easier to extract the meat from the shell later.
Step 3: Boil the Crab Claws
Fill a large pot with freshwater and place it on the stove on high heat. Add salt to the water and bring it to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, carefully drop the crab claws into the water and let them cook for about 6 to 8 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the claws as it can result in tough, rubbery meat.
Step 4: Ice Bath
Once the crabs are cooked, remove them from the boiling water using a pair of tongs or a slotted spoon. Immediately place them in a bowl filled with ice water. This helps to stop the cooking process and prevent the meat from shrinking further.
Step 5: Extract the Meat from the Claws
When the claws are completely cooled, use a small fork or a specialized crab claw cutter to extract the meat from the claw. Be sure to remove all the bits of shell, cartilage, and connective tissue from the meat.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
The spider crab claw can be served warm or cold. Common serving options include crab salad and crab cakes. One popular way to enjoy them is by dips or sauces such as garlic butter or aioli.
Conclusion
Cooking spider crab claws may seem daunting, but it can be a simple process with the right tools and basic knowledge. Always select fresh crabs, clean them, boil them and extract the meat carefully. Then, enjoy the sweet, succulent meat of the spider crab with your preferred dips and sauces!