Snow crab legs offer a prized seafood delicacy, celebrated for their sweet, tender meat and ease of preparation. Harvested from the cold waters of the North Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, these long, slender legs are a fantastic choice for a meal that feels both indulgent and approachable.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about this seafood delicacy. From their origins and nutritional benefits to various cooking methods, pairing suggestions, and tips for cracking them open, this article equips you with all the knowledge necessary to enjoy snow crab to the fullest.
What Are Snow Crab Legs?
These legs come from the snow crab, a species found in the cold waters of the North Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Known for their long, slender legs and claws, these crabs contain delicate, sweet meat that is highly sought after. Although smaller than their cousin, the king crab, snow crabs offer a similarly delicious experience at a more affordable price point.
The Anatomy of Snow Crab
Each snow crab has five pairs of legs, including one pair of claws. Covered in a hard shell, the legs need to be cracked open to access the meat inside. The meat is lean, white, and flaky, with a slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with various seasonings and sauces.
These crabs are typically sold pre-cooked and frozen, making them convenient for home cooks. You can find them in clusters, which include three legs and a claw, or as individual legs. The legs can be steamed, boiled, baked, or grilled, and they make an excellent addition to seafood boils, pasta dishes, or as a standalone entrée.
Nutritional Benefits
Snow crab not only provides delicious flavor but also offers nutritional benefits. It is an excellent source of protein, low in fat, and rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Here’s a closer look at the nutritional benefits:
High in Protein
Packed with protein, this seafood serves as a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake. A 3-ounce serving contains approximately 16-18 grams of protein, which supports muscle growth, repair, and overall health.
Low in Fat and Calories
Despite its high protein content, snow crab remains low in fat and calories, making it a healthy choice for those watching their caloric intake. A 3-ounce serving contains only about 80-90 calories and 1-2 grams of fat. The fat present is primarily unsaturated, which is considered heart-healthy.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Snow crab provides several essential vitamins and minerals, including:
- Vitamin B12: Important for maintaining healthy nerve cells and producing DNA.
- Zinc: Supports the immune system and promotes wound healing.
- Selenium: Acts as an antioxidant and plays a role in thyroid function.
- Copper: Helps with the formation of red blood cells and maintaining healthy bones, blood vessels, and nerves.
These nutrients contribute to overall health and wellness, making this seafood both a delicious and nutritious addition to your diet.
How to Choose and Store Snow Crab
Selecting high-quality crab legs and storing them properly ensures the best flavor and texture. Here’s what you need to know:
Choosing Crab Legs
When purchasing crab legs, consider several key factors:
- Size: Snow crab legs vary in size, with larger legs generally containing more meat. Choose legs that are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Color: Look for legs with a bright, white color, indicating freshness. Avoid legs with dark spots or a dull appearance, as this could indicate age or poor quality.
- Smell: Fresh legs should have a mild, oceanic scent. Steer clear of any with a strong, fishy odor, as this could indicate they are not fresh.
Storing Crab
Typically sold frozen, snow crab should remain frozen until you’re ready to cook it. Store it in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or lower to maintain its quality. If you purchase fresh crab, cook it within 1-2 days and store it in the refrigerator at 32°F (0°C) until you’re ready to prepare it.
To thaw frozen crab legs, place them in the refrigerator for 8-12 hours. Avoid thawing them at room temperature, as this can lead to bacterial growth.
How to Cook Snow Crab
Cooking snow crab legs is straightforward and quick, making them an excellent option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Several methods are available, each offering a slightly different flavor and texture. Below are some of the most popular methods for cooking this seafood:
Steaming
Steaming is one of the best ways to cook snow crab, as it helps retain the meat’s moisture and flavor. Follow these steps to steam the legs:
- Prepare the Steamer: Fill a large pot with about 1-2 inches of water and bring it to a boil. Place a steamer basket or rack over the boiling water.
- Add the Crab Legs: Arrange the legs in the steamer basket or on the rack, ensuring they are not overcrowded. If necessary, cook them in batches.
- Steam the Crab Legs: Cover the pot with a lid and steam the legs for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. If the legs were frozen, they might take an additional 2-3 minutes to steam.
- Serve: Remove the legs from the steamer and serve immediately with melted butter, lemon wedges, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Boiling
Boiling is another simple method for cooking crab legs. It’s quick and easy, making it a popular choice for large gatherings or seafood boils. Here’s how to boil crab legs:
- Prepare the Pot: Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the legs. Add a pinch of salt and bring the water to a rolling boil.
- Add the Crab Legs: Submerge the legs in the boiling water, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Boil the Crab Legs: Cook the legs for 4-6 minutes, or until heated through. If the legs were frozen, they might take an additional 2-3 minutes to boil.
- Serve: Drain the legs and serve immediately with your choice of sides and dipping sauces.
Baking
Here’s how to bake snow crab:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Crab Legs: Arrange the legs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Brush them with melted butter or olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or your favorite herbs and spices.
- Bake the Crab Legs: Cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil and bake the legs for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
- Serve: Remove the legs from the oven and serve immediately with lemon wedges and melted butter.
Grilling
Grilling adds a smoky flavor that complements the natural sweetness of snow crab. This method is perfect for a summer barbecue or a special outdoor meal. Here’s how to grill snow crab:
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Prepare the Crab Legs: Brush the legs with melted butter or olive oil, and season with your favorite spices.
- Grill the Crab Legs: Place the legs on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until heated through and grill marks appear.
- Serve: Remove the legs from the grill and serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauces.
How to Crack and Eat Snow Crab
Cracking open crab legs can be a fun and satisfying experience, especially when done correctly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cracking and eating snow crab:
Tools You’ll Need
- Crab crackers or nutcrackers: These tools are essential for breaking open the hard shells.
- Seafood picks or forks: Use these to extract the meat from the legs.
- Kitchen shears: Helpful for cutting through the tougher parts of the shell.
Step-by-Step Cracking Guide
- Separate the Legs: Twist the legs away from the body or the cluster to separate them. If the legs are still connected, break them apart at the joints.
- Crack the Shell: Gently crack the shell along the length of the leg using crab crackers or nutcrackers. Be careful not to crush the meat inside.
- Remove the Meat: Carefully pull the meat out of the shell using a seafood pick or fork. The meat should come out in one piece, especially if the shell was cracked cleanly.
- Enjoy: Dip the crab meat into melted butter, lemon juice, or your favorite sauce, and savor the sweet, tender flavor.
Tips for Easier Cracking
- Pre-crack the Legs: If serving crab legs at a party, consider pre-cracking them slightly to make it easier for guests to enjoy.
- Warm the Crab Legs: Slightly warming the legs before cracking can help soften the shells, making them easier to crack open.
Pairing Suggestions
Snow crab is versatile and pairs well with various sides, sauces, and beverages. Here are some pairing suggestions to elevate your crab leg experience:
Side Dish Pairings
- Garlic Butter Pasta: The rich, creamy flavors of garlic butter pasta complement the sweetness of crab meat perfectly.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots add a nice contrast to the tender crab meat.
- Corn on the Cob: A classic side for seafood, corn on the cob provides a sweet, crunchy complement.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing, crisp contrast to the rich crab meat.
Sauce Pairings
- Melted Butter: The classic pairing for snow crab legs, melted butter enhances the natural sweetness of the crab.
- Garlic Aioli: A garlic aioli adds a creamy, garlicky flavor that pairs well with the delicate crab meat.
- Citrus Beurre Blanc: A light, citrusy beurre blanc sauce adds a touch of elegance and a bright, tangy flavor.
- Cocktail Sauce: For a bit of spice, serve your crab with a zesty cocktail sauce.
Beverage Pairings
- White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the sweet, delicate flavor of the meat.
- Champagne: For a special occasion, pair your crab with a glass of champagne. The bubbles and acidity cut through the richness of the crab meat.
- Beer: A light, refreshing beer like a pilsner or lager pairs well with the sweetness of the meat and balances out the richness of the butter or sauces.
Health Considerations and Dietary Tips
While snow crab is generally considered healthy, keep a few things in mind when incorporating it into your diet:
Sodium Content
Snow crab naturally contains high sodium levels, which may concern those on a low-sodium diet. If you’re watching your sodium intake, try to limit the amount of added salt or opt for low-sodium seasonings.
Cholesterol Levels
Like many types of seafood, snow crab contains cholesterol. However, the cholesterol in seafood is generally considered less harmful than that found in red meat or processed foods. Still, if you’re managing your cholesterol levels, consume it in moderation.
Sustainable Sourcing
When purchasing snow crab, choose sustainably sourced options. Look for certifications like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) label, which indicates that the seafood has been harvested in an environmentally responsible manner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Snow Crab Legs Already Cooked?
Yes, most crab legs are pre-cooked and frozen. This means they are ready to eat after being reheated. The cooking methods described earlier—steaming, boiling, baking, and grilling—are all ways to reheat the crab rather than cook it from raw.
How Long Can You Store Snow Crab?
Frozen crab legs can remain in the freezer for up to 6 months. Fresh crab should be cooked within 1-2 days of purchase and stored in the refrigerator at 32°F (0°C) until ready to cook.
Can You Eat the Body of a Snow Crab?
Yes, you can eat the body, but extracting the meat requires more effort. The body contains some meat in the cavities and around the joints, but most people prefer the legs and claws because they are easier to access and contain more meat.
How Do You Reheat Leftover Snow Crab?
To reheat leftover crab, steam it for 3-5 minutes, boil it for 2-3 minutes, or bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to overcook it, as this can make the meat tough and dry.
What’s the Difference Between Snow Crab Legs and King Crab Legs?
Snow crab legs are smaller and less expensive than king crab legs, but they offer similar flavor and texture. King crab legs have thicker shells and larger pieces of meat, making them more luxurious and often more expensive. Snow crab offers a more affordable option that still provides a delicious seafood experience.
Conclusion: Enjoying Snow Crab to the Fullest
Snow crab legs are a versatile and delicious seafood option that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer them steamed, boiled, baked, or grilled, they are sure to impress with their sweet, tender meat and ease of preparation. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you can confidently select, store, cook, and serve crab legs, making them a standout dish for any occasion.
From their nutritional benefits to their pairing possibilities, snow crab is a true delicacy that deserves a place in your culinary repertoire. So the next time you’re looking for a meal that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare, consider cracking into some snow crab and savoring every bite.