Crabs are a delicious seafood delicacy enjoyed by many around the world. Whether you like them in crab cakes, as an appetizer, or in a seafood boil, there are no shortage of ways to prepare these tasty crustaceans. One popular method is to steam crabs, which not only cooks them perfectly but also preserves their natural flavors.
If you’re a crab lover but don’t have access to a steamer, don’t worry! There are plenty of alternative methods you can use to steam crabs right at home. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ways to steam crabs without a steamer so you can enjoy this delectable seafood whenever you like.
Using a large pot and a steaming rack
Using a large pot and a steaming rack is one of the easiest ways to steam crabs without a steamer. First, fill the large pot with enough water to cover the bottom and place the steaming rack on top. Make sure the water level is not too high so that the crabs won’t be submerged in water while steaming.
Next, add seasoning to the water, such as vinegar, Old Bay seasoning, or salt for better flavor. Bring the water to a boil and place the crabs on the steaming rack. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let it steam for about 15-20 minutes or until the shells turn bright red. Check the crabs a few times to ensure that the water is not boiling too vigorously, and add more water if necessary. Once done, remove the pot from heat and let it cool before opening the lid to avoid getting burned by the steam. Using a large pot and a steaming rack is an effective technique that doesn’t require any special equipment and produces deliciously steamed crabs.
Steaming crabs with a colander and a lid
Steaming crabs with a colander and a lid is one of the easiest ways to cook crabs without a steamer. First, fill a large pot with enough water to cover the bottom by about an inch. Place a colander (preferably metal) upside down in the pot. Bring the water to a boil.
Once the water is boiling, place the live crabs on top of the colander and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Steam the crabs until they turn red, which should take about 10-20 minutes. Make sure to check the crabs for doneness by pulling one of the legs. If it comes off easily, the crabs are done. Serve your steamed crabs hot with butter and lemon. This is a great way to enjoy crabs in the comfort of your own home, without needing any special equipment.
Using a baking sheet and aluminum foil
Using a baking sheet and aluminum foil is another easy and effective way to steam crabs without a steamer. To begin, preheat your oven to 375 °F (191 °C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Then, place a rack or parchment paper on top of the foil.
Next, fill a large pot with 1 inch (2.5 cm) of water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add your crabs to the baking sheet, spacing them out evenly. Cover the baking sheet tightly with aluminum foil, making sure that no steam can escape. Then, carefully transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the crabs are fully cooked. Once done, use tongs to remove the crabs from the baking sheet and serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Using a baking sheet and aluminum foil is a great way to steam crabs without a steamer, as it requires minimal effort and produces delicious results.
The DIY steaming contraption made from a metal strainer
If you do not have access to a steamer, you can easily construct a DIY contraption using a metal strainer. Simply take a large pot with a lid and fill it with water, leaving about an inch of space at the bottom. Heat the pot on high until the water begins to boil.
Next, take a metal strainer that can fit inside the pot and place it on top of the water, making sure it does not touch the water. Place the crabs on top of the strainer and cover the pot with a lid. Steam the crabs for around 10-15 minutes, depending on their size, until they turn a bright orange color and the meat is cooked through. This simple method is an excellent way to enjoy the sweet and succulent taste of steamed crabs without a steamer.
Making your own makeshift steam basket with wire mesh
If you don’t have a steamer to cook your crabs, you can create your own makeshift steam basket with wire mesh. This method requires a few simple supplies, including a large pot with a lid, some water, and a sheet of sturdy wire mesh. Before you get started, make sure to choose a wire mesh that is heat-resistant and sturdy enough to hold your crabs without collapsing.
To make your own steam basket, start by cutting a large square piece of wire mesh that is big enough to cover the bottom of your pot. Next, use wire cutters to snip the edges of the mesh, creating small tabs that you can bend upward. Place the mesh in the bottom of the pot, and use the tabs to anchor it in place. Then, fill the pot with about an inch or two of water and bring it to a boil. Finally, add your crabs to the pot and cover it tightly with the lid. Steam the crabs for around 10-15 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and bright red. Once they are done, remove them from the pot and serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Steaming crabs in a rice cooker or slow cooker
Steaming crabs in a rice cooker or slow cooker is a smart and easy alternative to using a steamer. Rice cookers and slow cookers are designed to keep food warm for long periods, which makes them perfect for steaming crabs.
To cook crabs in a rice cooker, add about an inch of water to the bottom of the pot and turn it on. Once the water is boiling, place the crabs in a steam basket or on a plate, and put it onto the rack provided. Close the lid and allow the crabs to steam for about 8-10 minutes or until they are fully cooked.
Similarly, in a slow cooker, add whatever spices and flavorings you prefer to a pot and then add a couple of inches of water. Place the crabs on a steaming rack and then put the rack in the pot. Cover the pot with the lid and cook the crabs for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Steaming crabs in a rice cooker or slow cooker is an excellent and effortless way to make a delicious meal.
Tips for checking the doneness of steamed crabs.
Once the crabs have been steamed without a steamer, it is important to check whether or not they are cooked through. One way to do this is by checking the color of the crab shells. When the crabs are fully cooked, their shells will turn a bright orange-red color. Additionally, the smell of the crab meat will be more potent and the legs should come off easily.
Another way to check the doneness of steamed crabs is by checking the internal temperature. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the thickest part of the crab meat. The temperature should read at least 145°F. If the temperature reading is lower than this, the crabs need to be steamed for a few more minutes until they are fully cooked. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your steamed crabs are perfectly cooked and ready to be enjoyed.
Verdict
In conclusion, steaming crabs without a steamer is a simple process that can be done using just a few basic kitchen tools. Whether you opt for the plate or pot method, be sure to season your crabs well and monitor the cooking time carefully to ensure that they are cooked to perfection.
It is important to note that while steaming crabs without a steamer may be a convenient option, investing in a steamer can greatly improve the quality of your crab dishes. A steamer allows for more even cooking and helps to preserve the delicate flavor and texture of the crab meat. However, for those who do not have access to a steamer or are looking for a quick and easy alternative, these methods can be a great option for cooking delicious, fresh crabs.