Snow crab legs are a delightful seafood treat, known for their sweet flavor and tender meat. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, this guide will help you understand everything about snow crab legs—from selecting the best ones to cooking them perfectly.HowStuffWorks+7The Kitchn+7Maine Lobster Now+7
Contents
What Are Snow Crab Legs?
Snow crabs are found in cold waters like the North Atlantic and North Pacific Oceans. They have long, slender legs filled with white, sweet meat. These crabs are smaller than king crabs, usually weighing between 2 to 4 pounds. Their legs are easier to crack open, making them a favorite for many seafood lovers.The Kitchn+2Southern Living+2HowStuffWorks+2The Kitchn+2Maine Lobster Now+2HowStuffWorks+2
Nutritional Benefits of Snow Crab Legs
Snow crab legs are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients:
- High in Protein: A 3-ounce serving provides about 20 grams of protein, essential for muscle building.
- Low in Fat: They contain minimal fat, making them a lean protein source.Epicurious+11kingcrabgourmet.com+11Global Seafoods North America+11
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Snow crab legs offer vitamins like B12 and minerals such as zinc and selenium, which support immune health.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These healthy fats promote heart and brain health.
However, they can be high in sodium, especially if pre-cooked and processed. A 3-ounce serving may contain up to 500-700 milligrams of sodium. It’s advisable to consume them in moderation, especially for those watching their sodium intake. elizabethrecipes.com
How to Choose and Store Snow Crab Legs
Selecting the Best Snow Crab Legs
When buying snow crab legs:The Kitchn+4Epicurious+4Global Seafoods North America+4THEKITCHENTODAY
- Look for Firmness: The legs should feel firm and not soft or watery.
- Check the Color: Fresh snow crab legs have a bright, reddish-orange hue.THEKITCHENTODAY
- Smell: They should have a fresh, ocean-like smell.
Storing Snow Crab Legs
- Refrigeration: If you plan to cook them within a day or two, store them in the coldest part of your refrigerator.Ocean Info+8Epicurious+8Global Seafoods North America+8
- Freezing: For longer storage, keep them in the freezer. Ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Remember, always thaw frozen crab legs in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
Cooking Methods for Snow Crab Legs
Cooking crab legs is simple and quick. Here are some popular methods:THEKITCHENTODAY
- Boiling
- Steps:
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Add the crab legs and boil for 4-5 minutes.
- Remove and drain.THEKITCHENTODAY+1Bon Appétit+1
Boiling is a straightforward method that heats the crab legs evenly.THEKITCHENTODAY
- Steaming
- Steps:
- Place a steamer basket in a large pot with about an inch of water.
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Place the crab legs in the basket and cover.
- Steam for 4-6 minutes.Global Seafoods North America+2THEKITCHENTODAY+2Global Seafoods North America+2
Steaming helps retain the crab’s natural flavors and moisture.
- Baking
- Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the crab legs on a baking sheet.
- Brush with melted butter and season as desired.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes.Southern Living+3THEKITCHENTODAY+3Global Seafoods North America+3
Baking allows you to infuse flavors like garlic or herbs into the crab meat.
Delicious Snow Crab Legs Recipes
- Garlic Butter Crab Legs
- Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of crab legs
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- Juice of one lemon
- Chopped parsley for garnishHowStuffWorks
- Instructions:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice.
- Pour the mixture over steamed crab legs.
- Garnish with parsley and serve.
- Crab Legs with Spicy Dipping Sauce
- Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of crab legs
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons of sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Instructions:
- Mix mayonnaise, sriracha, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl.
- Serve the sauce alongside steamed crab legs.
These recipes are easy to prepare and bring out the delicious flavors of crab legs.
Snow Crab Legs vs. King Crab Legs
While both are delicious, there are some differences:elizabethrecipes.com+5Global Seafoods North America+5Maine Lobster Now+5
- Size: King crabs are larger, often weighing up to 20 pounds, whereas snow crabs are smaller.Southern Living+1The Kitchn+1
- Shell: Crab legs have thinner shells, making them easier to crack.Southern Living+3The Kitchn+3Global Seafoods North America+3
- Flavor: Snow crab meat is sweet and slightly briny, while king crab meat is richer and resembles lobster.The Kitchn+4Southern Living+4HowStuffWorks+4
- Price: Crab legs are generally more affordable than king crab legs. HowStuffWorks
FAQs
Q1: How do I know when crab legs are cooked?
A: Cooked crab legs turn a bright orange color, and the meat becomes opaque and tender.Krispy Recipes+1Global Seafoods North America+1
Q2: Can I cook crab legs from frozen?
A: Yes, but it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for even cooking.
Q3: Are crab legs healthy?
A: Yes, they’re high in protein and low in fat. However, they can be high in sodium, so consume in moderation.
Q4: What’s the best way to crack open crab legs?
A: Use kitchen shears or crab crackers to gently open the shell and extract the meat.The Kitchn
Q5: How should I store leftover cooked crab legs?
A: Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. Consume within 2 days for best quality.
Conclusion
Snow crab legs are a delightful seafood option that’s both nutritious and delicious. With their sweet flavor and tender meat, they’re sure to be a hit at any meal. Whether you’re boiling, steaming, or baking, cooking crab legs is simple and rewarding. Remember to choose high-quality crab legs, store them properly, and enjoy them in moderation.Global Seafoods North America+1THEKITCHENTODAY+1
For more information on crab varieties and cooking methods, visit Bon Appétit.The Spruce Eats+2Bon Appétit+2Epicurious+2
