Blue Swimmer Crab Cooking: How Long to Cook them Perfectly

Welcome to our guide on cooking Blue Swimmer Crabs to perfection! Blue Swimmer Crabs are a popular seafood delicacy known for their sweet and delicate flavor. However, cooking them just right can be a challenge. In this article, we will discuss how long it takes to cook Blue Swimmer Crabs perfectly and provide you with some useful tips and techniques to enhance your cooking experience.

Understanding Blue Swimmer Crabs

Blue Swimmer Crabs are medium-sized crabs, typically measuring between 15 and 20 centimeters across. They are named for their vibrant blue legs and claws, while their bodies are usually brownish or greenish. These crabs are commonly found in the waters around Australia and are available in seafood markets and restaurants throughout the country.

Preparation and Cleaning

Before you start cooking Blue Swimmer Crabs, it is important to properly prepare and clean them. Begin by handling live crabs with care, being mindful of their sharp claws. To clean the crabs, remove the gills, stomach, and any other unwanted parts. This will ensure that your crabs are ready to be cooked and enjoyed.

Boiling Blue Swimmer Crabs

Boiling is one of the most popular methods for cooking Blue Swimmer Crabs. To get started, you'll need a large pot filled with enough water to cover the crabs. For the best results, use a 1:2 ratio of crabs to water. For example, if you are cooking four crabs, use eight cups of water. You can also add seasoning such as salt, pepper, or bay leaves to enhance the flavor. Bring the water to a boil, then carefully place the crabs into the pot. Cook the crabs for about 8-10 minutes, or until they turn a vibrant orange color. Be sure not to overcook them, as this can make the meat tough and dry. Once cooked, remove the crabs from the pot and let them cool before cracking and serving.

Steaming Blue Swimmer Crabs

Steaming is another excellent method for cooking Blue Swimmer Crabs. Fill a large pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place a steaming basket or colander on top of the pot. Once the water is boiling, carefully place the crabs into the basket, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to medium. Steam the crabs for about 10-12 minutes. The crabs will turn a vibrant orange color when they are fully cooked. Remove the crabs from the steamer and allow them to cool before cracking and serving.

Grilling Blue Swimmer Crabs

Grilling Blue Swimmer Crabs adds a delicious smoky flavor to the meat. To grill crabs, start by preparing them. Clean the crabs and carefully break them in half. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill is heating, you can brush the crabs with marinade or rub them with your favorite spices for added flavor. Place the crabs on the grill, shell side down, and cook them for about 5-7 minutes. Flip them over and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the meat is tender and opaque. Remove the crabs from the grill and serve hot.

Blue Swimmer Crab Recipes

Now that you know how to cook Blue Swimmer Crabs perfectly, let's explore some delicious recipes you can try:

Blue Swimmer Crab Linguine

To make this mouthwatering pasta dish, you will need:

• Blue Swimmer Crab meat, cooked and shredded
• Linguine pasta
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Chili flakes (optional)
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Follow these steps to create a delicious Blue Swimmer Crab Linguine:

1. Cook the linguine according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté the minced garlic and chili flakes (if using) until fragrant.
3. Add the cooked Blue Swimmer Crab meat to the pan and toss it in the garlic and oil mixture.
4. Add the cooked linguine to the pan and mix everything together until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with fresh parsley.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Blue Swimmer Crab Cakes

To make delicious Blue Swimmer Crab Cakes, gather the following ingredients:

• Blue Swimmer Crab meat, cooked and shredded
• Breadcrumbs
• Mayonnaise
• Chives, chopped
• Egg, beaten
• Lemon juice
• Old Bay seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Follow these simple steps to create flavorful Blue Swimmer Crab Cakes:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, chives, egg, lemon juice, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Gently mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to break up the crab meat too much.
3. Shape the mixture into small patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the crab cakes for about 15-20 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove the crab cakes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
6. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Blue Swimmer Crab Salad

For a refreshing and light Blue Swimmer Crab Salad, gather these ingredients:

• Blue Swimmer Crab meat, cooked and shredded
• Mixed salad greens
• Cucumber, sliced
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Avocado, sliced
• Fresh lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

To put together this delightful salad, follow these steps:

1. In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and avocado slices.
2. Add the cooked Blue Swimmer Crab meat to the bowl and gently toss everything together.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a simple dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently to coat.
5. Serve the Blue Swimmer Crab Salad immediately and enjoy!

Serving and Enjoying Blue Swimmer Crabs

Now that you've cooked your Blue Swimmer Crabs to perfection, it's time to serve and enjoy them! To crack the shell, use a crab cracker or a pair of kitchen scissors to gently break it open and reveal the succulent meat inside. Serve the crabs with accompaniments such as melted butter, lemon wedges, or a tangy seafood sauce. Pair your crab dish with a refreshing beverage like a crisp white wine or a cold beer for a perfect seafood feast.

We hope this article has provided you with valuable information and inspiration for cooking Blue Swimmer Crabs. Remember to experiment with different cooking methods, seasonings, and recipes to find your favorite way to enjoy this delectable seafood delicacy!