5 dungeness crab recipe

dungeness crab recipes

As autumn winds blow across the Pacific Northwest, Dungeness crab season arrives. This crab is loved for its sweet meat and soft texture. It’s a favorite in the area, harvested from late November to June.

Whether you love crab or are new to it, these five recipes will take you to the Pacific’s shores. Each dish highlights Dungeness crab’s amazing taste and versatility. From traditional chowder to unique curry dishes, these recipes will excite your taste buds and make you want more.

Understanding Dungeness Crab: A Pacific Northwest Treasure

Dungeness crab is a prized delicacy from the West Coast. It’s known for its tender, sweet, and delicate meat. These crustaceans have a distinctive fan-shaped shell that can grow up to 10 inches long. With a meat-to-shell ratio of about 25%, it’s a satisfying seafood choice.

Peak Season and Availability

The Dungeness crab harvest season is from late fall to winter. December and January are the best months for a sweet flavor. In Alaska, the season starts in the fall and goes through winter. In San Francisco, it’s from mid-November to May.

Nutritional Benefits of Dungeness Crab

Dungeness crab is a nutritious seafood choice. A 3-ounce serving of wild Alaskan Dungeness crab has 60 calories, 14 grams of protein, and just 0.5 grams of fat. It also has a bit of calcium, about 4% of the Recommended Daily Intake (RDI). The pre-cooked Snap & Eat variety has approximately 90 calories, 19 grams of protein, and 1 gram of fat per 3-ounce serving, making it a healthy option.5 dungeness crab recipe

Selecting the Perfect Crab

Choosing the freshest Dungeness crab is key for quality and flavor. Whole Foods Market sells freshly cooked Dungeness crab at $11.99 per pound. It’s best to have one large crab per person. Rinse the crab well and remove any inedible parts before enjoying this West Coast treasure.

“Dungeness crab is my favorite crab species,” – Julia Child, renowned chef and culinary icon.

Essential Tools and Ingredients for Crab Preparation

Preparing delicious Dungeness crab dishes requires the right tools and ingredients. From cracking open the shells to getting the meat out, the right equipment is key. It helps bring out the best in this Pacific Northwest treasure.

You’ll need a big stockpot or steamer to cook the whole crabs. A strong knife or crab cracker is vital for breaking the shells. Also, skinny crab forks are great for getting every bit of crab meat.

Make sure you have kosher salt, butter, Old Bay Seasoning, fresh lemon, and herbs like dill and parsley ready.

If you’re making crab appetizers or crab entrees, don’t forget the dipping sauces. Try tangy ketchup, zesty horseradish, or melted butter with savory seasonings.

With these tools and ingredients, you’re set to make amazing Dungeness crab dishes. They’ll impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Classic Dungeness Crab Chowder Recipe

Enjoy the creamy goodness of a classic Dungeness crab chowder. It highlights the sweet flavor of Dungeness crab from the Pacific Northwest. The chowder is creamy, with tender potatoes and aromatic seasonings. It’s perfect for those who love crab or want to try something new.

Key Ingredients for Perfect Chowder

• 1 lb of fresh Dungeness crab meat
• Bacon
• Onion, celery, and garlic
• Potatoes
• Chicken or seafood stock
• Heavy cream
• White wine
• Butter
• Thyme, salt, and pepper
• Garnishes like parsley or chives

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Start by cooking bacon until it’s crispy. Then, remove the bacon and keep the drippings. Cook the onion, celery, and garlic in the bacon fat until they’re soft.5 dungeness crab recipe

Next, add white wine to the pot. Then, add potatoes, stock, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 12-15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.

After that, add heavy cream and Dungeness crab meat. Cook until the crab is warm. For a chunkier soup, puree half of it or use a blender.

Finish with crispy bacon, parsley, and chives on top.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the chowder with a salad, crusty bread, and steamed veggies like asparagus. For a fancy touch, add Snow Crab Legs Clusters or Golden King Crab. Top it with caviar for extra luxury. This chowder is both elegant and easy to make, impressing anyone who tries it.

Asian-Inspired Curry Crab with Coconut Milk

Get ready for a flavor-packed journey with this Dungeness crab dishes recipe. It’s inspired by the Pacific Northwest’s vibrant tastes. This crab entrees dish features succulent Dungeness crab in a curry-infused coconut milk sauce. It’s a seafood lover’s dream!

The recipe’s key is the perfect spice and aroma balance. Fresh ginger, garlic, and Thai chili peppers add a subtle heat. The creamy coconut milk makes a rich, velvety base for the seafood recipes star – the Dungeness crab.

To highlight the crab’s sweetness, boil the whole crabs first. Then, gently remove the meat. This step preserves the crab’s delicate flavor and tender texture, making each bite a delight.

Serve this dish over fluffy white rice. Let the fragrant aromas and vibrant flavors take you to the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re a seasoned crab enthusiast or new to Dungeness crab dishes, this recipe will impress and satisfy.

Ingredients:

• 4 whole Dungeness crabs, cooked and meat removed
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 Thai chili peppers, sliced (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Carefully remove the meat from the cooked Dungeness crabs, keeping the pieces as intact as possible.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, ginger, and sliced Thai chili peppers (if using). Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the curry powder and cook for an additional minute, allowing the spices to bloom.
4. Pour in the coconut milk and fish sauce, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Gently fold in the crab meat and fresh spinach leaves. Cook for 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach is wilted and the crab is heated through.
6. Serve the Asian-Inspired Curry Crab with Coconut Milk immediately, alongside steamed white rice. Enjoy the rich, flavorful, and aromatic dish that celebrates the best of Dungeness crab!

“The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a touch of heat – this Curry Crab dish is a must-try for any seafood lover.”

5 Dungeness Crab Recipes That Will Impress Your Guests

Dungeness crab is a seafood lover’s dream. It’s sweet and tender, perfect for many dishes. Impress your guests with these five Dungeness crab recipes.

Traditional Boiled Crab

Boiled Dungeness crab is simple yet delicious. Cook fresh crabs in a flavorful broth with Old Bay seasoning. Serve with melted butter or tangy cocktail sauce for a classic crab feast.

Grilled Crab with Garlic Butter

Grilled Dungeness crab is a summer treat. Brush crab legs and meat with garlic butter, then grill until charred. The smoky, buttery taste is amazing with the sweet crab.

Crab Fried Rice

Add Dungeness crab to your fried rice for a tasty twist. Sauté crab with mushrooms, carrots, and garlic. Mix with brown rice, soy sauce, maple syrup, and sesame oil for a satisfying dish.

Crab is a favorite seafood for its sweet meat. This article shares five gourmet Dungeness crab recipes to wow your guests. From classic crab meat recipes to Asian-inspired crab entrees, these dishes will make your dinner party unforgettable.

Elegant Dungeness Crab Salad Creation

Experience the Pacific Northwest’s flavors with this Dungeness crab salad. It combines sweet crab meat with asparagus, avocado, tomatoes, and eggs. This mix of textures and tastes will wow your guests.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 300 kcal

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp. honey
• 2 tbsp. lime juice
• Zest of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 lb. cooked Dungeness crab, chilled
• 1 head butter lettuce leaves, rinsed and torn
• 2 radishes, thinly sliced
• 1 avocado, thinly sliced
• 1 mango, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp. minced chives

The Dungeness crab’s freshness is key in this crab salad. It comes from the Pacific Northwest’s cold waters. This makes the crab’s meat tender and flavorful, enhancing the salad’s taste.

“Dungeness crab has a sweet and slightly nutty taste that pairs beautifully with the crisp vegetables and creamy avocado in this salad.”5 dungeness crab recipe

To make the salad, mix crab meat with lettuce, radishes, avocado, mango, and chives. Then, drizzle the vinaigrette over it. The vinaigrette is made from olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, lime juice, and zest. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve it chilled for a light meal or a stunning starter at your next seafood dinner.

Spicy Singaporean Chili Crab Style

For a bold and flavorful seafood experience, try the iconic Singaporean chili crab dish. It features fresh Dungeness crab. The sweet crab meat pairs perfectly with a spicy, tomato-based sauce that will make your taste buds dance.

Sauce Preparation Tips

The sauce is the heart of this recipe. It combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the heat of chilies and aromatic ingredients. Start by sautéing shallots, ginger, and garlic in peanut oil until fragrant.

Then, add a generous amount of Thai chilies for extra spice. Stir in tomato paste, chicken broth, and a splash of hot-sweet chili sauce. This creates the signature sauce.

Cooking Temperature Guide

Keeping the right cooking temperature is key. It ensures the crab meat stays tender and the sauce is just right. Start by gently cooking the crab in the sauce, letting the flavors mix.

Once the sauce thickens, add a cornstarch slurry to make it velvety. Finally, fold in a beaten egg for a glossy coating on the crab.

Serve the Spicy Singaporean Chili Crab right away. Garnish with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro. Enjoy it with steamed rice or fluffy buns to soak up the sauce. This Dungeness crab recipe will wow your guests and take them to Singapore’s vibrant streets.

Best Wine Pairings and Serving Suggestions

Perfecting your Dungeness crab dishes means finding the right wine. For this Pacific Northwest gem, crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or unoaked Chardonnay are perfect. They balance the crab’s sweetness and richness, making for a delightful meal.

Set up the Dungeness crab on a big platter with fresh lemon and lime slices, and herbs like parsley and dill. Offer drawn butter and tangy cocktail sauce for dipping. This lets everyone enjoy their crab their way. Don’t forget crab crackers and picks to make eating easier.

Whether it’s a fancy dinner or a laid-back seafood night, these wine pairings and serving tips will make your Dungeness crab dishes shine. Your guests will be impressed and happy.5 dungeness crab recipe

Conclusion

Dungeness crab recipes are a treat for seafood lovers. This article has shown many ways to make your meals special. You can try a classic Dungeness crab recipe or something new like crab meat recipes.

Whether you want a creamy chowder, a spicy dish, or a simple crab salad, Dungeness crab is perfect. Its sweet, succulent meat will surely wow your taste buds.dungeness crab recipes

Global Seafoods offers fresh Dungeness crab for your cooking. They help you enjoy the Pacific Northwest’s flavors at home. With the right cooking, you can make dishes that amaze everyone.

So, dive into the world of Dungeness crab and try these recipes. Enjoy the rich, buttery taste and feel like you’re by the sea. Bon appétit!

FAQ

What is the peak season for Dungeness crab?

The peak season for Dungeness crab is from late November to June.

How does Dungeness crab compare in terms of meat-to-shell ratio?

Dungeness crab has about 25% meat, making it quite meaty.

What utensils are essential for preparing Dungeness crab?

You’ll need a large stockpot, a heavy knife for cracking, and skinny crab forks for getting the meat out.

What are some common ingredients used in Dungeness crab dishes?

You’ll often use kosher salt, butter, Old Bay Seasoning, lemon, and fresh herbs like dill and parsley. For sauces, try ketchup, horseradish, or melted butter with seasonings.dungeness crab recipes

What wine pairings complement Dungeness crab dishes?

White wines like Sauvignon Blanc or unoaked Chardonnay pair well with Dungeness crab. They complement the sweet meat nicely.