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Dungeness Crab

Dungeness Crab

Craving something decadent? This Dungeness Crab recipe is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together tender meat and rich butter, all roasted to perfection. Perfect for any occasion, this easy weeknight dinner will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 Dungeness crab
  • lemon wedges

Equipment

  • Wooden Spoon
  • Oven
  • Chef's Knife
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting, allowing the crab to cook evenly while maintaining its moisture and flavor.
  2. Using the flat side of a knife, press down to smash the black peppercorns and chop them roughly. This helps release their essential oils, maximizing flavor in your dish.
  3. Next, heat the unsalted butter in the microwave until melted, being careful not to let it boil. Once melted, add the crushed black pepper and salt, stirring to mix well. This aromatic mixture will elevate the flavor of the crab.
  4. To prepare the Dungeness crab, you'll need to kill it first if it's live. Stab it in the middle of the body, just above its abdominal area. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes. This will help drain the murky water that may be inside, ensuring a cleaner taste.
  5. After that, rinse the crab under cold water and pat it dry with a towel. This step is crucial to ensure the butter mixture will adhere well to the crab.
  6. Coat the crab generously with the black pepper butter mixture. Make sure to cover all the nooks and crannies, as this will infuse the crab with flavor as it roasts.
  7. Carefully place the crab on a baking sheet and roast it in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. The shell will turn a beautiful reddish-orange color, and the aroma will fill your kitchen.
  8. Once done, remove the crab from the oven and let it cool slightly. This will make it easier to handle when serving.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side. The lemon adds a refreshing burst of acidity, balancing the richness of the crab.

Notes

Extra tips or suggestions here.