Red King Crab Claws

Red King Crab Claws are a prized seafood delicacy, often considered a luxury due to their size, taste, and texture. These claws come from the Alaskan King Crab, known for its immense size and sweet, succulent meat. The claws themselves are thick, meaty, and offer an unforgettable dining experience.

Here’s everything you need to know about Red King Crab Claws:

What Are Red King Crab Claws?

• King Crab is found in the cold waters of the Bering Sea off the coast of Alaska, and their claws are a highly sought-after part of the crab. These claws are large and are known for their sweet, rich, and tender meat.

• The red in “Red King Crab Claws” refers to the vivid red color of the shell after the crab is cooked. The color change occurs as the protein in the shell reacts to the heat during cooking.

How to Cook Red King Crab Claws:

There are several ways to prepare and cook these crab claws, depending on your preferences. Here are the most popular methods:

1. Boiling Red King Crab Claws:

• Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. You can also add seaweed or lemongrass for an extra flavor boost.

• Step 2: Gently lower the crab claws into the boiling water.

• Step 3: Cook the claws for 5-7 minutes for pre-cooked claws or 10-12 minutes for raw claws. You’ll know they’re done when the shells are bright red, and the meat is opaque.

• Step 4: Remove the claws from the pot and drain them. Serve with butter, lemon, and herbs.

2. Grilling Red King Crab Claws:

Grilling adds a smoky flavor to the crab and creates a delicious crispy texture on the outside.

• Step 1: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

• Step 2: Brush the claws with melted butter or your favorite marinade. You can also add garlic or herbs for extra flavor.

• Step 3: Place the claws on the grill, and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until they are heated through and have grill marks.

• Step 4: Serve immediately with garlic butter or other dipping sauces.

3. Steaming Red King Crab Claws:

Steaming is one of the gentlest methods for cooking crab, which helps retain its natural flavors.

• Step 1: Fill a large pot with about 2 inches of water, and bring it to a boil.

• Step 2: Place the claws in a steamer basket or on a rack inside the pot, making sure the claws don’t touch the water.

• Step 3: Cover the pot and steam the claws for about 6-8 minutes for pre-cooked claws or 10-12 minutes for raw claws.

• Step 4: Once done, remove the claws and serve with melted butter or a fresh lemon wedge.

4. Baking Red King Crab Claws:

Baking is a hands-off way to cook the crab and can help concentrate the flavors.

• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Step 2: Brush the claws with melted butter, garlic, and seasoning.

• Step 3: Arrange the claws on a baking sheet and cover with foil to keep moisture in.

• Step 4: Bake for 10-12 minutes (for pre-cooked claws) or 15 minutes (for raw claws).

• Step 5: Remove the foil and bake for another 2-3 minutes to lightly brown the top of the claws.

How to Eat Red King Crab Claws:

Eating king crab claws can be a bit of a challenge, but it’s part of the fun! Here’s how to break them open and enjoy the tender meat inside:

• Use a Crab Cracker: You’ll need a crab cracker or a mallet to break through the hard shell. If you don’t have a crab cracker, a nutcracker can also do the job.

• Pull the Meat Out: Once the shell is cracked, carefully pull the meat out in large chunks. If the claw is particularly thick, you may want to use a seafood fork or pick to get the meat out.

• Dipping Sauces: Red King Crab Claws are often served with melted butter (sometimes with garlic or lemon) or a spicy aioli. You can also serve them with mustard-based sauces or a simple squeeze of lemon.

Serving Red King Crab Claws:

• Classic Pairings: Red King Crab Claws are often served with sides like steamed vegetables, corn on the cob, garlic bread, or potatoes.

• Wine Pairing: For an elegant touch, serve the crab with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or Sauvignon Blanc. Alternatively, you can go with a glass of Champagne for an extra-special touch.

Buying Red King Crab Claws:

• Fresh vs. Frozen: Red King Crab Claws are often sold frozen, as they are caught and flash-frozen right after being harvested. Both fresh and frozen are high-quality, so if you’re buying them frozen, just ensure they’re properly thawed before cooking.

• Size Matters: King crab claws can vary greatly in size. When purchasing, you’ll typically find them sold by weight (e.g., 1 lb or 1.5 lb claws), so decide based on how many people you are serving and how much you want to eat.

Red King Crab Claws vs. Snow Crab Claws:

While red king crab claws are much larger and meatier, snow crab claws are smaller and more delicate. King crab meat is firmer, while snow crab meat is typically softer, but both are delicious. King crab is often considered a more luxurious option due to its size and flavor.

Health Benefits of Red King Crab Claws:

• High in Protein: King crab meat is a great source of protein, essential for muscle building and overall health.

• Low in Fat: It’s low in fat and calories, making it a great option for anyone on a low-fat diet.

• Rich in Nutrients: Crab meat is high in vitamins and minerals like Vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium, which are beneficial for immune function and overall well-being.