Crab legs are a delicious seafood treat that can be prepared in various ways. While they are often served simply with melted butter, seasoning them properly can take their flavor to the next level. Choosing the right seasoning blend not only enhances the inherent sweetness of the crab meat, but also adds aromatic, spicy, herby or tangy notes that complement the briny seafood.
In this comprehensive guide we will look at the best seasonings and spice blends to use for preparing fantastic crab legs every time. Whether you prefer mild salty, spicy or herbaceous flavors, there are plenty of options to make your crab legs stand out.
Why Should You Season Crab Legs?
Crab leg meat has a naturally sweet delicate flavor and fleshy texture. Seasoning brings out the inherent qualities of the meat and adds extra dimensions to its taste profile. Here are some of the benefits of seasoning crab legs
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Enhances natural flavor – Seasonings like garlic, lemon, Old Bay and butter accentuate the sweetness of the crab meat.
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Provides aroma – Spices like garlic and onion scent the crab, teasing your senses even before you take a bite.
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Retains moisture – Brushing seasonings over crab legs prevents them from drying out during cooking.
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Adds visual appeal – Herbs like paprika and parsley give a splash of color, enhancing the dish’s visual appeal.
Best Seasonings and Spice Blends for Crab Legs
Here are some of the most popular and proven seasoning choices to consider for your crab legs:
1. Lemon Pepper
This zesty blend of lemon zest and black pepper is a mild seasoning perfect for those who want the natural crab flavor to shine through. The lemon brightens up the briny taste of the meat, while the pepper provides a little kick. Sprinkle lemon pepper on steamed or grilled crab legs.
2. Old Bay Seasoning
No crab seasoning guide is complete without the iconic Old Bay. This classic Maryland spice blend contains celery salt, mustard, cinnamon, bay leaves and other herbs and spices. It adds a unique warmth that makes crab come alive. Use it in boiling water or sprinkle it on after cooking.
3. Cajun Spice
For those who like heat, a Cajun crab boil is the way to go. This spice mix contains cayenne and chili peppers along with garlic, onion and herbs like oregano and thyme. It packs a punch that cuts through the rich crab flavors.
4. Garlic Butter
Nothing beats dunking crab legs in this rich, savory condiment. Melted butter infused with minced garlic makes for an indulgent yet easy dip that takes crab legs to new levels of deliciousness. Squeeze a lemon wedge over it for extra flavor.
5. Mustard Sauce
Made with mustard, mayonnaise, lemon juice and spices, this creamy sauce pairs perfectly with crab legs. The tart mustard cuts through the fattiness, while the mayo provides smooth texture. It’s a lighter alternative to plain drawn butter.
6. Herb Blend
For a fresh taste, try a mixed herb seasoning made with oregano, thyme, parsley, chives and other herbs. It adds a light earthiness that works well with the briny crab flavor. Mix it with melted butter or olive oil for an easy coating.
7. Soy Sauce and Brown Sugar
For Asian flair, you can’t go wrong with an umami-rich soy sauce glaze. Cook down soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger and garlic into a sticky syrup and brush it over your crab before broiling. Teriyaki flavors pair amazingly with crab.
8. Spicy Tomato Sauce
Made with garlic, onion and tomatoes simmered in olive oil and spices, this bold sauce can be poured directly over crab legs for instant flavor. The tangy tomatoes offset the sweetness of the crab gorgeously. Add chili flakes for extra heat.
Tips for Seasoning Crab Legs
Follow these simple tips to get the most flavor out of your crab legs:
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Choose good quality, fresh crab rather than thawed frozen crab for best results.
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Season the boiling liquid for infusing flavor right into the meat while cooking.
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Brush on melted butter, oil or sauce after cooking for instant flavor.
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Sprinkle on dry seasoning blends like Cajun spice just before serving.
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Squeeze lemon wedges over the crab legs for a fresh finish.
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Make spicy or tangy dipping sauces for dunking the legs as you eat.
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Don’t overdo the seasoning to let the crab flavor shine through.
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Let guests season their own legs to suit individual tastes.
With the right seasonings, you can make your crab legs bursting with flavor. Always taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. The options are endless, so get creative with your herbs, spices, sauces and spice blends to cook up the ultimate crab feast!
How to Cook Crab Legs Perfectly
To get the most out of your seasoned crab legs, it’s important to cook them properly. Here are some tips:
Boiling
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Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Season it generously with Old Bay, lemon and other spices.
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Gently drop in the crab legs and cover. Boil for 4-8 minutes depending on size.
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Drain and serve with lemon wedges, drawn butter or your favorite dipping sauce.
Steaming
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Place crab legs in a steamer basket over boiling water.
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Steam for 4-8 minutes until the meat is opaque. Take care not to overcook.
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Transfer to a platter and brush with garlic-herb butter.
Baking
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Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil.
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Spread legs out and brush all over with melted butter or olive oil. Season as desired.
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Bake 8-12 minutes until hot and opaque.
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Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.
Grilling
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Oil the grill grates well and preheat to medium-high.
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Brush legs with oil or butter and season them.
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Grill legs 4-6 minutes per side, rotating to prevent burning.
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Transfer to a plate and drizzle with garlic-lime butter.
Proper cooking ensures the crab legs are heated through while keeping the meat moist and tender. Now dig in and enjoy your fantastically flavored crab feast!
Frequently Asked Questions
What spices go well with crab legs?
Old Bay seasoning is a traditional spice combination that is perfect for crab legs. It is a blend of herbs and spices, including red pepper, celery salt, and paprika. It has a unique flavor that goes well with fish. Chili powder is another great spice that can add a mild to moderately spicy flavor to your crab cakes.
What seasoning is best for crab?
Some popular choices include Old Bay seasoning, garlic, lemon, and cayenne pepper. Experiment with different spice blends to find the perfect combination for your taste preferences. When it comes to seasoning crab, there are a variety of spices that can add depth and flavor to this delicious seafood.
Can you add seasoning to crab legs after cooking?
Yes, you can definitely add seasoning to crab legs after cooking them. Simply cook them plain, then brush the crab legs with melted butter, olive oil or other seasoning medium. Sprinkle on your choice of dry spices, herbs or spice blends. You can also make various dipping sauces to dunk the cooked crab legs in for flavor. Seasoning after cooking gives you more control.
What is crab leg seasoning?
Crab leg seasoning is a spice blend specifically designed to complement and enhance the natural sweet flavor of crab meat. It usually contains some combination of sea salt, black or white pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, celery seed, mustard powder, cayenne and other spices. Well-known crab seasonings include Old Bay, JO Spice, and crab boil mixes.
What goes good with crab legs?
Crab legs pair well with melted butter, lemon wedges, garlic bread or rolls, coleslaw, baked potatoes, asparagus, roasted corn, and fresh seasonal salads. Rich dipping sauces like garlic-herb butter, aioli, remoulade or cocktail sauce also complement crab wonderfully. A crisp white wine or light beer makes a great beverage pairing.
Conclusion
From the iconic Old Bay, to lemon-pepper and herby butters, there are limitless ways to add flavor to succulent crab legs. With the right seasonings and cooking methods, you can enjoy restaurant-quality crab feasts at home. Be creative with your spices and sauces, and don’t be afraid to experiment until you find your perfect crab leg seasoning combo.
