Boiling Crab
Learn how to boiling crab perfectly with our detailed guide, including timing, temperature, and expert tips.
⏱️
5min
Cook Time
🌡️
210°F / 100°C
Cooking Temperature
⚖️
0.3 lb / 5 oz / 140 g
Portion Weight
Per adult serving
✅
165°F / 75°C
Internal Temperature
Safe
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1Fill large pot with salted water
- 2Add Old Bay seasoning and lemon halves
- 3Bring to rolling boil
- 4Add crab legs or whole crab
- 5Boil 4-5 minutes for pre-cooked legs
- 6For live crab, boil 15-18 minutes
- 7Remove with tongs when shells are bright red
- 8Check internal temperature reaches 165°F / 75°C
- 9Drain and serve hot
Expert Tips for Boiling
- 💡Use 1/2 cup salt per gallon of water
- 💡Add vegetables for crab boil flavor
- 💡Save cooking liquid for seafood stock
- 💡Shock in ice bath if serving cold
Crab Temperature Guide
| Doneness | Temperature | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Safe | 165°F / 75°C | Opaque and firm, shells open (for mussels/clams) |
Crab Safety Guidelines
Important food safety practices when handling and cooking crab.
⚠️
Cook to proper internal temperature
⚠️
Use food thermometer
🚨
Remember
When in doubt, use a food thermometer. It's the only reliable way to ensure your crab is safely cooked and delicious.
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