How to Cook Spider Crab and Succeed at the Table

Before we dive into the cooking process, it's important to know how to choose the right spider crab. Because, in the end, it all starts with a good selection. Here are some key tips to help you buy a spider crab that's cooked to perfection.

Tips for Choosing the Right Spider Crab

1. Find a perfect spider crab: : It is ideal to buy it fresh or ultra-frozen. A spider crab Fresh or live crab meat is a guarantee that it's in good condition. If it moves (even slightly) when touched, that's a good sign. Deep-frozen crab meat is another really good option because it's usually deep-frozen at the time of capture. This helps it retain all of the crab's properties.
2. Weight and densityA crab that's heavy for its size is a good indicator that it's full of meat. If it seems light compared to other crabs of the same size, it could be under-fleshed or empty, which is common when they're molting.
3. Firm and clean shellThe shell should be hard and clean, without cracks or signs of wear. A very soft shell could mean the crab is molting, which negatively affects the quantity and quality of the meat.
4. Shell colorThe shell should be red or dark brown, indicating an adult specimen. A lighter color may indicate a younger or less developed crab, which will influence the amount of meat.
5. Choose female or male according to your preferenceMale spider crabs tend to have more meat on their legs, while females have roe, which can be an added treat for some. If you're looking for more meat, the male is the best option. If you prefer roe, opt for a female.
6. Smell the spider crabA fresh spider crab should have a mild ocean scent. If you detect a strong or unpleasant odor, it may not be as fresh as it should be. Avoid purchasing it if this is the case.
7. Time of the yearThe best time to buy spider crab is during the colder months (usually November through March), as this is when they are at their best and the meat is most flavorful and abundant.

How to Cook Fresh or Frozen Spider Crab

Now that you have a quality spider crab, we'll explain how to cook it simply and without complications, so you can enjoy its full potential on the table.

What you need

• A fresh or frozen spider crab. 
• A large pot (it is important that the seafood is well covered with water).
• Coarse salt or sea salt.
• Optional: bay leaf to add an extra touch of flavor.

The Step by Step

1. Prepare the potFill a large pot with enough water to completely cover the crab. Add approximately 60 grams of salt per liter of water. If you want a touch of aroma, you can add a few bay leaves, although it's not essential. If the crab is frozen or deep-frozen, remove it the night before and place it in the bottom rack of the refrigerator.
2. Introduce the spider crabIf the spider crab is fresh, place it in cold water to allow it to acclimatize gradually. This way, we prevent it from losing its legs during cooking, which is common when it is placed directly into boiling water. If it is dead, then it can be added directly to the boiling water.
3. Cooking timeCooking time depends on the weight of the crab. Here's a guide:

1. Remove and let it restOnce cooked, remove the crab from the pot and let it rest on a platter or wire rack to drain off excess water. It's not recommended to leave it in contact with the cooking water, as it could absorb more salt than necessary.
2. Presentation and enjoymentAfter a brief rest, the spider crab will be ready to serve. Ideally, it should be accompanied with a light vinaigrette or enjoyed plain to fully appreciate its flavor.

Additional tips for cooking Galician spider crab

• Do not rushPatience is key. If you try to speed up the process by increasing the temperature, you could end up cooking the crab unevenly. Cooking it at the right temperature ensures a firm and juicy texture.
• Salt in the right measureAdding the right amount of salt to the water is essential to enhance the crab's flavor without overdoing it. Coarse or sea salt is preferable, as it has a more natural flavor.
• SeawaterIf you have access to clean, safe seawater, it's an excellent option for cooking spider crab, as it provides an authentic flavor and a perfect level of salt.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cooking Spider Crab

1. Is it necessary to prepare the spider crab before cooking it?
   It's not strictly necessary. If the crab is alive, we recommend placing it in cold water to prevent it from becoming stressed and losing its legs during cooking. This also improves the quality of the meat.
2. What is the best way to serve cooked spider crab?
   You can serve it cut in half, with the legs arranged around the body. A light vinaigrette or a squeeze of lemon enhances its flavor without overpowering it. Another option is to prepare a mignonette sauce with vinegar and chopped shallots.
3. How do you preserve a cooked spider crab?
   If you're not going to eat it immediately, cooked spider crab can be stored in the refrigerator for 1 or 2 days, covered with a damp cloth to maintain its freshness. It's important not to leave it too long to prevent it from losing flavor and quality.

final advice

The key to cooking a perfect crab is the balance between the amount of salt and the cooking time. There's no need to add complicated ingredients; focusing on the crab's flavor alone is the real star. With these simple steps, you'll achieve perfect cooking and a spectacular dish that will impress everyone at the table.