How Long Should Alaskan King Crab Legs Be Boiled?

Alaskan king crab legs are known throughout America and Canada as the best crab legs out there, valued for their large size and huge chunks of sweet, white meat inside the hard shell. King crab is more expensive than most other types of crab, such as Dungeness and snow crab, due to its size. Boiling the legs it the most common way to prepare king crab; it's a good way to keep the meat juicy and infuse it with added spices and flavors.

The Basics

King crab legs are immediately cooked and then quickly frozen on the fishing vessel after they are caught. After you purchase the crab legs, you simply have to reheat them by boiling. It is important that you don't overcook them, as this will dry out the meat, and reduce the juiciness and sweet flavor. Thaw the king crab legs them out in the refrigerator in an airtight container over night.

Materials

Few materials are required to boil Alaskan king crab legs. The key item you will need is a large, deep boiling pot that's at least 2 feet deep in order to fit the crab legs. Consider adding spices and seasonings to the water, like seafood stock, olive oil, a generous amount of sea salt, lemon juice, chili pepper or peppercorns.

The Boiling Process

Break the crab legs off at the joint from the body once they are thawed out. Fill up the large pot 3/4 full with cold water and your seasonings and herbs. Bring the water to a boil then drop in the Alaskan king crab legs. Quickly reduce the heat and let the legs simmer for about six to seven minutes. Remove the legs with metal tongs and rinse under cool water. They are now ready to eat.

References

• King Crab Legs Preparation
• Boiling Crab Legs

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