Atlantic Rock Crab

Atlantic rock crab is a sweet and tender seafood, and there are several ways you can cook it to enjoy its delicate flavor. Here’s a simple recipe for boiled Atlantic rock crabs with a flavorful garlic butter dipping sauce:

Boiled Atlantic Rock Crab Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4-6 Atlantic rock crabs (live or pre-cooked)

• 1-2 tablespoons sea salt (for boiling)

• 2-3 bay leaves (optional)

• 1 lemon (cut in half)

Garlic Butter Dipping Sauce:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)

• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• A pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crabs:

   • If you have live crabs, make sure they’re fresh and kept cool until you’re ready to cook. If using pre-cooked crabs, just thaw them in the fridge for a few hours before cooking.

   • Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1-2 tablespoons of sea salt and the bay leaves. The salt helps to season the crabs as they cook, and the bay leaves add a subtle flavor.

2. Cook the Crabs:

   • Add the crabs to the boiling water. If you’re using live crabs, carefully drop them in headfirst (to ensure humane cooking). Let them cook for about 10-12 minutes if they’re live, or 5-6 minutes if they’re pre-cooked.

   • When they’re done, they should be a bright orange or red color, and you should hear a satisfying “clunk” when tapping on the shell.

   • Remove the crabs from the water and allow them to cool slightly before handling.

3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:

   • While the crabs are boiling, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.

   • Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

   • Stir in the lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes to combine the flavors.

4. Serve:

   • Crack open the crabs, remove the meat from the legs, claws, and body, and serve with the garlic butter dipping sauce on the side.

   • Squeeze a little fresh lemon over the crab meat for extra zing!

Tips:

• For extra flavor, you can steam the crabs instead of boiling them.

• Serve with some crusty bread or fresh baguette to soak up the delicious garlic butter.

• If you like spice, a dash of hot sauce in the butter sauce can be a fun twist!