Savory Garlic-Steamed Whole Crab
Nutritional value per serving
Calories350kcal
Carbs5gram
Fat8gram
Protein40gram
Ingredients
- Whole live crab (preferably about 1.5 lb/700 g) - look for lively movement and a fresh smell when buying1 piece
- Fresh garlic cloves, peeled - choose firm cloves without sprouting6 pieces
- Water - clean, filtered if possible1 liter
- Salt - fine sea salt preferred2 tbsp
- Lemon wedges (optional) - fresh and juicy4 pieces
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)a small bunch n/a
This delicious and simple recipe for steaming whole crab with garlic will guide you through preparing a flavorful seafood dish that's perfect for home cooks of all skill levels. Steaming whole crab preserves its sweet, delicate flavor, and the addition of garlic enhances the taste without overpowering. You'll enjoy a juicy, tender crab that is cooked safely to the recommended internal temperature of 145°F (63°C), ensuring food safety while keeping it moist and tasty. The total cost for ingredients is approximately $20 (USD), €18 (EUR), £15 (GBP), or ₹1600 (INR). This recipe yields 2 servings, contains approximately 350 kcal per serving, and is low in fat and carbs, fitting well into a pescatarian diet. The difficulty is easy, and the total cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the Crab
1Before cooking, ensure the crab is alive and moving to guarantee freshness. Rinse the crab under cold running water. To avoid cross-contamination, wash hands, utensils, and surfaces well after handling the live crab.
Prepare the Steaming Setup
2Fill a large pot or steamer with 1 liter of water and add 2 tablespoons of salt. Place garlic cloves in the water for aroma. Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
Steam the Crab
3Place the whole crab on a steaming rack or basket above the boiling water. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Steam the crab for 15 - 20 minutes until the shell turns bright orange-red and the meat reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). You can use a food thermometer by inserting it into the thickest part of the crab meat to check.
Rest and Serve
4Carefully remove the crab using tongs or a heatproof glove to avoid burns. Let it rest for 5 minutes to finish cooking and allow juices to redistribute. Serve hot with lemon wedges and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Tips
1If a food thermometer is not available, steam the crab for at least 20 minutes to ensure it is thoroughly cooked.
2Use a large pot with a tight lid to ensure even steaming and to trap aromatic garlic steam.
3Avoid overcooking the crab by monitoring time closely; overcooking can make meat tough and dry.
4To clean the crab before cooking, you may rinse it, but do not soak live crab in water as it may stress the crab.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot with lid
- Steaming rack or basket
- Tongs or heatproof gloves
- Food thermometer (recommended for safety)
- Knife and cutting board (for serving and optional garnishing)
Shopping List
- [ ] Whole live crab (about 1.5 lb/700 g) - ~$15. Look for lively, fresh crabs at seafood markets or stores.
- [ ] Fresh garlic cloves (6 pieces) - ~$0.50. Choose firm, unblemished cloves.
- [ ] Fine sea salt (2 tbsp) - ~$0.25. Use as per preference.
- [ ] Lemon (4 wedges) - ~$1. Fresh lemons are juicier and more flavorful.
- [ ] Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional) - ~$1. Adds a fresh garnish.
Total approximate cost: $17.75
FAQ
How do I know when the crab is cooked?
The crab shell turns bright orange-red when fully cooked, and the meat's internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C). Cooking for 15-20 minutes generally suffices for a crab about 1.5 lb.
Can I use frozen crab for steaming?
Yes, but it's best to thaw the crab completely before steaming. Cooking times may vary slightly.
Is it safe to eat crab with garlic steamed this way?
Yes, steaming crab with garlic is safe when the crab reaches the recommended internal temperature to kill harmful bacteria. Always handle the crab and utensils carefully to avoid cross-contamination.
How should I handle the live crab safely?
Handle live crab carefully to avoid pinches. Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces thoroughly after handling to prevent cross-contamination.
Can I add other seasonings while steaming?
Yes, you can add bay leaves, peppercorns, or citrus slices to the steaming water for extra flavor if you like.