Dungeness crab (Cancer magister) is a crustacean species native to the western coast of North America. Named after Dungeness, Washington, where commercial harvesting began, this crab is highly valued for its sweet, tender meat. The species is characterized by a hard, reddish-brown carapace and long legs, with adults typically measuring 7-9 inches in width, making it one of the larger crab species globally.
The meat of Dungeness crab is known for its rich, buttery flavor and firm texture, often compared to lobster. It is versatile in culinary applications, featuring in various dishes such as salads, soups, and pasta. Nutritionally, Dungeness crab is a good source of protein and low in fat.
Commercial fishing of Dungeness crab is an important industry along the Pacific coast, with strict regulations in place to ensure sustainable harvesting. The crab’s habitat ranges from Alaska to California, with peak seasons varying by location. Dungeness crab plays a significant role in both the ecosystem and the economy of coastal communities in its range.
Key Takeaways
- Dungeness crab is a popular seafood known for its sweet and tender meat, making it a versatile ingredient for various recipes.
- A classic Dungeness crab salad recipe is a refreshing and light dish that highlights the natural flavors of the crab.
- Dungeness crab cakes with lemon aioli are a delicious and crispy appetizer or main course that pairs well with the zesty aioli.
- Dungeness crab linguine with garlic and white wine sauce is a simple yet elegant pasta dish that showcases the delicate flavor of the crab.
- Grilled Dungeness crab with herb butter is a flavorful and indulgent dish that brings out the natural sweetness of the crab meat.
Classic Dungeness Crab Salad Recipe
Preparing the Classic Salad
To make a classic Dungeness crab salad, start by picking the meat from the crab’s shell and removing any cartilage. In a large bowl, combine the crab meat with diced celery, red onion, and fresh herbs such as parsley and chives.
Creating the Perfect Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the dressing over the crab mixture and gently toss to coat. Serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens or in a buttery croissant for a delightful lunch or light dinner.
Variations and Customizations
For a variation on the classic Dungeness crab salad, consider adding diced avocado or mango for a touch of sweetness and creaminess. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. This versatile salad can be served as an elegant appetizer at a dinner party or as a refreshing summer meal on a hot day.
A Dish That’s Sure to Impress
The sweet, tender meat of the Dungeness crab pairs perfectly with the crisp vegetables and creamy dressing, creating a dish that is sure to impress.
Dungeness Crab Cakes with Lemon Aioli
Another popular way to enjoy Dungeness crab is in the form of delicious crab cakes. To make Dungeness crab cakes, start by combining the picked crab meat with breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, minced garlic, and a touch of mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.
Form the mixture into patties and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. When you are ready to cook the crab cakes, heat a skillet with oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the crab cakes in the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
While the crab cakes are cooking, prepare a simple lemon aioli by whisking together mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Serve the hot crab cakes with a dollop of lemon aioli on top for a burst of bright, tangy flavor. Dungeness crab cakes are a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course that is perfect for entertaining or special occasions.
The sweet, delicate flavor of the crab meat shines in this dish, while the crispy exterior adds a satisfying crunch. The zesty lemon aioli provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the crab cakes, making each bite a delightful experience.
Dungeness Crab Linguine with Garlic and White Wine Sauce
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dungeness Crab | 1 lb |
| Linguine Pasta | 8 oz |
| Garlic | 4 cloves |
| White Wine | 1 cup |
| Butter | 4 tbsp |
| Parsley | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
For a luxurious pasta dish that showcases the sweet flavor of Dungeness crab, try making Dungeness crab linguine with garlic and white wine sauce. Start by cooking linguine according to package instructions until al dente. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
Add white wine to the skillet and simmer until slightly reduced. Stir in heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
Gently fold in the picked Dungeness crab meat and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Finish the dish with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and color. Serve the Dungeness crab linguine with garlic and white wine sauce immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
This elegant pasta dish is perfect for date night or a special dinner at home. The tender linguine provides the perfect base for the rich, creamy sauce and sweet Dungeness crab meat. The garlic and white wine sauce adds depth of flavor without overpowering the delicate taste of the crab, creating a harmonious balance that is sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
Grilled Dungeness Crab with Herb Butter
Grilling Dungeness crab with herb butter is a fantastic way to enjoy this delectable seafood while adding a smoky charred flavor to enhance its natural sweetness. To prepare grilled Dungeness crab, start by splitting the crabs in half lengthwise using a sharp knife or kitchen shears. Clean out any gills or innards from the body cavity and rinse the crabs under cold water.
In a small bowl, combine softened butter with minced garlic, freshly chopped herbs such as parsley, thyme, and chives, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Season the herb butter with salt and pepper to taste. Place the prepared crab halves on a hot grill, shell side down, and cook for 5-6 minutes until lightly charred.
Flip the crabs over and spread the herb butter over the exposed meat. Continue grilling for an additional 4-5 minutes until the crab meat is heated through and the butter is melted and bubbling. Grilled Dungeness crab with herb butter is an impressive dish that is perfect for outdoor gatherings or special occasions.
The smoky char from the grill adds depth to the sweet, tender crab meat, while the herb butter infuses each bite with rich, savory flavor. This simple yet elegant preparation allows the natural taste of Dungeness crab to shine through while adding an irresistible smoky aroma that will have everyone coming back for more.
Dungeness Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
Preparing the Mushrooms
To make Dungeness crab stuffed mushrooms, start by removing the stems from large button mushrooms and hollowing out the caps to create space for the filling.
The Filling Mixture
In a bowl, combine picked Dungeness crab meat with cream cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped green onions, and breadcrumbs. Season the filling mixture with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.
Baking and Serving
Spoon the crab filling into each mushroom cap and place them on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown and bubbly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Dungeness Crab Bisque Recipe
Dungeness crab bisque is a luxurious soup that highlights the sweet flavor of this prized seafood in a rich, creamy base. To make Dungeness crab bisque, start by sautéing diced onions, carrots, and celery in butter until softened. Add minced garlic and tomato paste to the pot and cook until fragrant.
Pour in chicken or seafood stock along with white wine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add heavy cream to the pot and continue simmering until slightly thickened. Stir in picked Dungeness crab meat and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Serve the Dungeness crab bisque hot, garnished with freshly chopped chives or parsley for an extra burst of flavor. Dungeness crab bisque is an elegant starter for special occasions or dinner parties that will impress your guests with its rich, velvety texture and decadent flavor.
The sweet, delicate taste of Dungeness crab shines in this luxurious soup, while the creamy base provides a comforting backdrop for this seafood delicacy. Each spoonful offers a luscious combination of flavors that will leave everyone at the table wanting more. In conclusion, Dungeness crab is truly one of nature’s culinary treasures that can be enjoyed in countless delicious ways.
Whether it’s in classic dishes like salads and bisques or more creative preparations like stuffed mushrooms or grilled with herb butter, this delectable seafood never fails to impress with its sweet flavor and tender texture. Whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner party or simply craving a special meal at home, consider incorporating Dungeness crab into your menu for an unforgettable dining experience that will delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.
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FAQs
What is a dungeness crab?
A dungeness crab is a species of crab that is found along the west coast of North America, from Alaska to Mexico. It is known for its sweet and tender meat, making it a popular choice for seafood dishes.
What are some popular dungeness crab recipes?
Some popular dungeness crab recipes include dungeness crab cakes, dungeness crab salad, dungeness crab pasta, dungeness crab bisque, and simply steaming or boiling the crab and serving it with melted butter.
How do you cook dungeness crab?
To cook dungeness crab, you can steam, boil, or bake it. To steam, place the crab in a steamer basket over boiling water and steam for about 15-20 minutes. To boil, place the crab in a pot of boiling water and cook for about 10-12 minutes. To bake, clean the crab and place it in a baking dish with seasonings and bake at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes.
What are some tips for preparing dungeness crab?
When preparing dungeness crab, it’s important to clean the crab by removing the gills, apron, and any innards before cooking. You can also crack the crab’s shell before cooking to make it easier to eat once it’s cooked. Additionally, dungeness crab pairs well with flavors like garlic, lemon, butter, and herbs.
Where can I buy dungeness crab?
Dungeness crab can be found at seafood markets, fish markets, and some grocery stores, especially those located along the west coast of North America where the crab is most abundant. It is also available for purchase online from seafood suppliers.
