Garlic-Infused Whole Boiled Crab Delight
Nutritional value per serving
Calories250kcal
Carbs3gram
Fat5gram
Protein30gram
Ingredients
- Whole fresh crab (about 1.5 pounds) - choose a lively, undamaged crab1 piece
- Garlic cloves - fresh, firm, without any sprouting6 pieces
- Water4 liters
- Salt - preferably sea salt2 tbsp
- Bay leaves (optional)2 pieces
- Lemon wedges (for serving)4 pieces
This recipe guides you through boiling a whole crab with garlic to infuse lovely flavors while ensuring safety and simplicity. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $20, €18, £15, or 1600 INR, with each serving providing around 250 calories. Suitable for pescatarian diets, this easy recipe takes about 20 minutes total, perfect for quick and delicious seafood meals.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the Crab
1If the crab is alive, humanely kill it quickly by placing it in the freezer for 15-20 minutes. Rinse the crab under cold running water to clean any dirt or debris. Avoid cross-contamination by washing your hands and sanitizing surfaces after handling raw crab.
Crush Garlic Cloves
2Peel and crush the garlic cloves slightly to release more flavor when boiling.
Boil Water with Seasonings
3In a large pot, bring 4 liters of water to a rolling boil. Add 2 tbsp sea salt, crushed garlic cloves, and bay leaves if using. This will season the boiling water and infuse the crab with a mild garlic flavor.
Add the Crab
4Carefully place the whole crab into the boiling water. Cover the pot and allow water to return to a boil.
Cook the Crab
5Once boiling again, cook the crab for 15 minutes for a 1.5 pound crab. For larger crabs, add 2 minutes per additional 0.5 pounds. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C) for safety. The crab shell will turn bright orange and the meat will be opaque and firm when cooked.
Drain and Serve
6Remove the crab carefully using tongs, drain the water, and let the crab cool for a minute. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for added freshness.
Cooking Tips
1Avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure even cooking.
2Use fresh, live crabs for the best taste and quality.
3Serve with melted butter or a garlic butter sauce for added richness.
4Wear gloves if sensitive to crab shells when handling.
5Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw seafood to prevent cross-contamination.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Tongs
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Thermometer (recommended for checking internal temperature)
- Strainer or colander
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] Whole fresh crab (about 1.5 pounds) - $15. Choose live, active crabs that smell fresh, not fishy.
- [ ] Garlic cloves (6 pieces) - $0.50. Look for firm, unblemished cloves.
- [ ] Bay leaves (optional, small pack) - $1. Tips: They add subtle aroma.
- [ ] Sea salt (2 tbsp) - $0.20. You may already have this.
- [ ] Lemon (4 pieces) - $1. Choose bright, firm lemons for juiciness. Total approximate cost: $17.70
FAQ
How do I know when the crab is fully cooked?
The crab shell turns bright orange, and the meat is opaque and firm. Using a food thermometer, the internal temperature of the crab meat should reach 145°F (63°C).
Can I use frozen crab instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen crab, but adjust cooking times slightly as frozen crab may need less time to heat through. Be sure to thaw it properly before boiling.
Is it safe to eat crab straight after boiling?
Yes, once the crab reaches the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), it is safe to eat. Let it cool briefly to handle and eat comfortably.
What if I don’t have bay leaves?
Bay leaves are optional and add aroma. If you don't have them, the recipe will still taste great using garlic and salt alone.
How do I avoid cross-contamination when handling crab?
Always wash your hands well after touching raw crab, use separate cutting boards for seafood and other foods, and clean all utensils and surfaces thoroughly.