Can You Eat Blue Crab? Delicious and Nutritious!
Blue crabs are a type of crab found in the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Pacific Ocean. They are usually caught in shallow waters, and they are a popular food in many coastal regions. Many people wonder if you can eat blue crab, and the answer is a resounding yes! In fact, blue crab is not only delicious, but it’s also very nutritious.
Blue Crab Nutrition: All That Protein!
One of the main benefits of eating blue crab is that it is high in protein. A 3-ounce serving of blue crab contains about 16 grams of protein. The protein found in blue crab is of high quality, meaning it contains all of the essential amino acids that our bodies need. This makes blue crab an excellent source of protein for athletes and people who are trying to build muscle or stay lean.
Besides, blue crabs are low in fat and calories. A 3-ounce serving of blue crab contains just 87 calories and less than 1 gram of fat. This makes it a perfect food for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Can You Eat Blue Crab? Absolutely Yes!
When it comes to eating blue crab, there are several ways to enjoy this delicious seafood. The most common way is to steam it and serve it with melted butter and lemon wedges. Blue crabs are also often used to make crab cakes or added to soups and stews. Here are some of the most popular ways to eat blue crab:
How to Cook Blue Crab
There are several ways to cook blue crab, but the most popular method is steaming. Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients:
- 1 gallon of water
- 1/2 cup of vinegar
- 1/4 cup of Old Bay seasoning
- 3-4 pounds of blue crab
Instructions:
- Fill a large pot with the water, vinegar, and Old Bay seasoning. Bring to a boil.
- Place the blue crabs in the pot, making sure they are all submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the pot and steam the crabs for about 20-30 minutes or until they turn bright orange.
- Remove the crabs from the pot and serve hot with melted butter and lemon wedges.
Crab Cakes: An All-time Classic
Crab cakes are another popular way to enjoy blue crab. They are easy to make and delicious. Here’s a simple recipe for making crab cakes:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup of dried breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon of Old Bay seasoning
- 1 pound of blue crab meat
- 1/4 cup of finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup of finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup of finely chopped red bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, mustard, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning.
- Add the crab meat, onion, celery, red bell pepper, and parsley to the bowl.
- Using your hands, gently mix everything together until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the crab cakes to the skillet and cook for about 4 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
- Remove the crab cakes from the skillet and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Tips for Blue Crab
If you’re not sure how to cook blue crab, here are some useful tips for getting the most flavor out of this delicious seafood:
How to Choose Fresh Blue Crab
The first step in cooking blue crab is to choose a fresh one. Look for crabs that have a hard shell with a bright orange underside. The claws should be intact, and the legs should be moving when touched. Avoid crabs with black-tipped claws or a grayish tinge, as they may not be as fresh.
Cleaning and Preparing Blue Crab
Before cooking blue crab, you need to clean and prepare it. This involves removing the carapace, gills, and other inedible parts. To do this, hold the crab upside down and twist off the legs and claws. Remove the carapace by pulling it off from the back, then use a pair of scissors to cut away the gills and other parts. Rinse the crab under cold water to remove any debris.
Seasoning Blue Crab
Blue crab has a delicate flavor that can be enhanced with the right seasonings. Old Bay seasoning is a classic seasoning for blue crab, but you can also use other herbs and spices like garlic, ginger, and cumin to add a more complex flavor to your dish.
Cooking Time for Blue Crab
The cooking time for blue crab depends on the method you choose. Steaming takes about 20-30 minutes, while boiling takes about 10-15 minutes. If you’re grilling or broiling blue crab, it will take about 4-5 minutes on each side.
FAQs about Eating Blue Crab
Here are some of the most common questions people ask about eating blue crab:
Q: Is blue crab safe to eat?
A: Yes, blue crab is safe to eat, as long as it’s cooked properly. Always make sure to cook blue crab until it’s completely done and the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F to avoid any potential foodborne illnesses.
Q: Can you eat the shell of blue crab?
A: No, you cannot eat the shell of a blue crab. The shell is not only tough and indigestible, but it can also be dangerous to eat because it can puncture or scratch your digestive tract.
Q: What is the best way to store leftover blue crab?
A: If you have leftover blue crab, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It’s best to reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, but do not cook it for too long or it may become rubbery.
Q: How do you know if blue crab is bad?
A: If blue crab smells fishy or has a slimy texture, it may be spoiled and should not be eaten. Also, if the crab meat is discolored or has a foul odor, it should be discarded.
References
- The Health Benefits of Eating Crab. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/crab
- Crab Cakes Recipe. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/222882/maryland-crab-cakes-ii/
- How to Steam Crabs. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/248512/how-to-steam-crabs/