King crab legs are a true delicacy, prized for their sweet, succulent meat and impressive size. But did you know that most commercially available king crab legs are already cooked? This means you’re not actually cooking them from scratch, but rather reheating them to bring out their best flavor and texture.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about preparing king crab legs, from choosing the right amount to the different reheating methods.
Planning Your King Crab Feast
Buying:
King crab legs are a luxury ingredient, so it’s important to plan your purchase carefully. Here are some things to consider:
- Quantity: A good rule of thumb is to buy 1-1.5 pounds of king crab legs per person. This ensures everyone gets a satisfying amount without overspending.
- Frozen vs. Thawed: King crab legs are typically sold frozen. Frozen legs offer more flexibility for planning meals, while thawed legs are readily available for immediate enjoyment.
Thawing:
If your king crab legs are frozen, thawing them properly is crucial. The best method is to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Place them on a tray or colander set over a bowl to catch any drips. If you’re short on time, you can thaw them under cold running water. Place the legs in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold running water for 30-45 minutes, changing the water every 15 minutes.
Storage:
Once thawed, king crab legs should be cooked and consumed within two days. They can be stored in the refrigerator, but the quality will deteriorate the longer they sit.
Reheating Techniques: Unleashing the Flavor
There are several ways to reheat king crab legs, each with its own advantages:
- Steaming:
- Steaming is a gentle and effective way to reheat king crab legs without drying them out.
- Fill a pot with an inch or two of water and bring it to a boil.
- Place a steamer basket in the pot, ensuring the legs don’t touch the water.
- Arrange the king crab legs in the steamer basket and cover the pot.
- Steam for 4-7 minutes, depending on the size of the legs. You can check for doneness by removing a leg and carefully testing the meat with a fork or toothpick. It should be opaque and flake easily.
- Baking:
- Baking offers a convenient way to reheat a large quantity of king crab legs.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the king crab legs in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Pour enough water into the pan to reach about 1/4 inch deep.
- Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the legs are heated through.
- Microwaving:
- While not the ideal method, microwaving can be a quick option for reheating a small number of king crab legs.
- Place the king crab legs in a microwave-safe dish.
- Add a tablespoon of water per leg to prevent drying.
- Cover the dish with a lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small vent for steam to escape).
- Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as the legs can become tough and rubbery.
Tips for All Methods:
- Regardless of the chosen method, avoid overcooking the king crab legs. The meat should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch, but still flakey and moist.
- Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove the legs from the heat source.
- Be cautious of hot steam and wear oven mitts if necessary.
The Perfect Accompaniments:
King crab legs are delicious on their own, but they truly shine when paired with the right accompaniments. Here are some ideas:
- Melted Butter: This classic pairing is a must-have. You can doctor up your melted butter with some fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Cocktail Sauce: A zesty cocktail sauce adds a tangy kick to complement the sweetness of the crab meat.
- Lemon Wedges: Fresh lemon wedges are a refreshing accompaniment, allowing diners to add a touch of acidity according to their preference.
- Drawn Butter: This rich and flavorful sauce is made by simmering butter with aromatics like shallots or garlic until it separates.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring King Crab Delights
While reheating is the primary focus, king crab legs can also be incorporated into a variety of dishes, adding a touch of luxury and indulgence. Here are some ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:
- King Crab Louie Salad: This classic salad features chilled king crab meat alongside lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and a creamy dressing.
- Crab Bisque: Rich and decadent, crab bisque is a luxurious soup made with a creamy base, vegetables, and of course, king crab meat.
- Crab Cakes: These savory patties are a delicious way to enjoy king crab meat. They can be pan-fried, baked, or deep-fried, and served with a variety of dipping sauces.
- King Crab Pasta: Toss cooked king crab meat with your favorite pasta, vegetables, and a light and flavorful sauce for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Crab Rangoon: These crispy wonton wrappers filled with a creamy king crab mixture are a popular appetizer or finger food.
Tips for Cooking with King Crab Legs:
- Portion Control: Since king crab is a premium ingredient, use it judiciously. A little goes a long way in most dishes.
- Flavor Additions: Don’t overpower the delicate flavor of king crab with strong spices or overpowering ingredients.
- Cooking Time: Be mindful of cooking times. Overcooked crab meat becomes tough and rubbery.
King Crab: A Sustainable Choice
While king crab legs are a luxurious treat, it’s important to be mindful of sustainability. Choose brands that are committed to sustainable fishing practices to ensure the future of this delectable seafood.
Conclusion:
King crab legs are a gourmet experience waiting to be enjoyed. With a little planning and the right technique, you can easily reheat or incorporate them into delicious dishes. So next time you’re looking for a special occasion meal or simply want to indulge in a taste of the sea, consider making king crab legs the star of your culinary show.