Whole Dungeness Crab Recipe
Make Whole Dungeness Crab Recipe in just 1h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Crabs
Water and aromatics for boiling
Garlic butter for dipping
Method
Preparation and setup
Set up equipment
Choose a large stockpot (6–8 quarts) with a rack if possible. Have tongs, crab crackers, and a serving platter ready.
Rinse the live crabs under cold running water. If very active, briefly chill on ice to calm them before handling.
Make the boiling liquid
Prepare seasoned boiling liquid
In the stockpot, add 8 cups water, 1/4 cup kosher salt, 1 lemon cut into wedges, 2 smashed garlic cloves, 1 onion quartered, 2 bay leaves, and 1 tsp black peppercorns. Bring to a rolling boil.
Cook the crabs
Boil the crabs
Carefully add the live Dungeness crabs to the boiling liquid. Return to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 12–15 minutes, until the shells turn bright orange and the meat is opaque.
Butter preparation
Make garlic butter dip
In a small saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter over low heat. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in 1 teaspoon lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Keep warm.