Are you ready to take your seafood game to the next level? Look no further! Boiling crab is a classic Southern dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. But why settle for just any old recipe when you can spice things up (literally!) with some bold and adventurous options? In this article, we’re counting down our top 18 spicy boiling crab recipes that will ignite your taste buds and leave you craving more.
From the bold and zesty flavors of Cajun country to the subtle yet satisfying spices of Southeast Asia, these recipes run the gamut when it comes to heat level and flavor profile. Whether you’re a seasoned seafood lover or just looking for a new culinary adventure, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab your apron, fire up that pot, and get ready to dive into the world of spicy boiling crab!
Louisiana-style boiling crab with Cajun spices
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this classic boiling crab recipe, infused with the warmth of Cajun spices. Perfect for a quick and delicious seafood feast!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs whole crabs (blue or Dungeness)
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning blend
– 1/4 cup Old Bay seasoning
– 2 lemons, cut into wedges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Water for boiling
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the crabs.
2. Add Cajun seasoning blend, Old Bay seasoning, garlic, cayenne pepper, and paprika. Stir well.
3. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
4. Gently place the crabs into the boiling water.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until crabs turn bright red.
6. Remove crabs with tongs and rinse under cold running water.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges, melted butter, and your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic butter boiling crab with lemon zest
Elevate your seafood game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the sweetness of crab with the pungency of garlic, the richness of butter, and a burst of citrusy freshness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb king crab legs
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the crab legs. Bring to a boil.
2. Meanwhile, mix together butter, garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl.
3. Once boiling, carefully add the crab legs to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Remove the crab from the water with tongs and place on a plate. Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the top of each leg.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thai-inspired coconut milk boiling crab
Transform traditional boiled crab with a flavorful twist by incorporating the creamy richness of coconut milk and aromatic spices of Thai cuisine. This recipe combines succulent crab legs with a fragrant sauce, perfect for a special occasion or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab legs
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the crab legs. Bring to a boil.
2. Add coconut milk, fish sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
3. Carefully add the crab legs to the pot. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the crab is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
4. Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Sichuan mala boiling crab with numbing peppercorns
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this spicy and numbing crab recipe, featuring mala sauce and Sichuan peppercorns.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole Dungeness crab (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup mala sauce (see note)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the crab. Add the mala sauce, vegetable oil, Sichuan peppercorns, soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Gently place the crab into the pot, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid.
4. Cook for 8-10 minutes per pound, or until the crab is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Remove the crab from the pot and season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with toasted Sichuan peppercorns and scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Old Bay seasoning boiling crab with corn and potatoes
This classic Maryland-inspired dish is a flavorful twist on traditional boiling crab, with the added sweetness of corn and potatoes. Old Bay seasoning brings all the flavors together for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs crab legs (snow or blue crab)
– 1 cup Old Bay seasoning
– 4-6 red potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
– 1 cup fresh corn kernels
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the ingredients. Add Old Bay seasoning, salt, lemon juice, and vinegar.
2. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
3. Carefully add crab legs, potatoes, and corn kernels to the boiling water.
4. Return the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 12-15 minutes or until crab is fully cooked.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spicy tomato broth boiling crab with sausage
This hearty recipe combines the flavors of spicy tomato broth with succulent crab and savory sausage, making for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump blue crab meat
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 cups spicy tomato broth (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the spicy tomato broth to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the crab meat and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese lemongrass and chili boiling crab
This classic Vietnamese dish is a seafood lover’s delight, featuring succulent crab boiled to perfection in a flavorful broth infused with the aromatic warmth of lemongrass and the spicy kick of chilies.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole Dungeness crab (about 2 lbs), cleaned and rinsed
– 4 stalks of lemongrass, bruised
– 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lemongrass stalks, chilies, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the crab to the pot and cover with a lid.
4. Boil for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the crab is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Remove the crab from the pot and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemongrass stalks if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Korean gochujang boiling crab with rice cakes
This recipe combines the bold flavors of gochujang, a Korean chili paste, with succulent crab and chewy rice cakes for a mouth-numbingly delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup rice cakes, cut into bite-sized pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add crab meat and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add rice cakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cajun garlic butter boiling crab with shrimp
Get ready to sink your teeth into a flavorful and spicy seafood boil that combines the richness of garlic butter with the sweetness of succulent crab and shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump blue crab (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the crab and shrimp. Add the Cajun seasoning, garlic, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the crab and shrimp. Cover the pot and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the crab is cooked through and the shrimp are pink and tender.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the melted butter. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Indian curry-spiced boiling crab with coconut
This recipe combines the traditional method of boiling crab with the warm, aromatic flavors of Indian spices and rich coconut milk. The result is a succulent and savory dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole Dungeness crab (about 2 lbs)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup Indian curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the crab under cold water and place it in a large pot or steamer basket.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili flakes (if using).
3. Pour the spice mixture over the crab, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Add the water to the pot and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the crab is cooked through.
6. Remove the crab from the pot and set aside.
7. In the same pot, add the coconut milk and stir to combine with any remaining spices and juices.
8. Serve the crab with the coconut sauce spooned over the top, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mexican-style boiling crab with chipotle and lime
Elevate your seafood game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of crab legs with the smoky heat of chipotles and a squeeze of fresh lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds jumbo lump crab legs
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the crab legs. Add the chopped chipotle peppers, garlic, and salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the crab legs to the pot and continue to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until they are bright red and heated through.
4. Remove the crab from the pot with tongs and place on a platter.
5. Drizzle the lime juice over the crab, then sprinkle with chopped cilantro (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Japanese miso butter boiling crab
This Japanese-inspired recipe adds a rich and savory miso butter to the classic boiling crab, elevating it to new heights. The sweet and spicy flavors of the miso perfectly complement the succulent crab meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb king crab legs
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp white miso paste
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the crab legs and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until they turn bright red and are cooked through.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
4. Whisk in the miso paste, soy sauce, honey, and water until smooth.
5. Simmer the miso butter mixture for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Remove the crab legs from the pot and toss with the miso butter mixture to coat.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caribbean jerk boiling crab with allspice
Experience the bold flavors of the Caribbean with this mouthwatering recipe that combines succulent crab legs with a fragrant jerk seasoning and a hint of allspice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tbsp Caribbean jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp ground allspice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the crab legs under cold running water, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large pot or steamer basket, combine the jerk seasoning and allspice.
3. Add the crab legs to the pot, leaving some space between each leg.
4. Pour in the water and white wine (if using), making sure the crab is covered.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the crab is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
6. Serve the crab legs hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Southern-style boiling crab with hot sauce and beer
Southern-Style Boiling Crab with Hot Sauce and Beer: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs. crab legs (jumbo lump or snow crab)
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Tabasco or Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/2 cup beer (light-colored, such as Pilsner or Lager)
– 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the crab legs.
2. Add the hot sauce, beer, Old Bay seasoning, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
4. Reduce heat to a simmer and add the crab legs.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the crab is bright red and flaky.
6. Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes.
7. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Mediterranean boiling crab with olives and fennel
This recipe combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with a classic boiled crab dish, adding the freshness of olives and the crunch of fennel. Perfect for a special occasion or a family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 Dungeness crab (about 2 lbs), live or frozen
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 bulb fennel, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the crab under cold water and remove any guts or shell fragments.
2. In a large pot, combine water, olive oil, garlic, olives, and fennel.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
4. Add the crab to the pot and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the crab is cooked through.
5. Remove the crab from the pot and let it cool slightly.
6. Serve the crab with the flavorful liquid spooned over the top, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Filipino chili garlic boiling crab
A spicy and savory take on traditional boiling crab, this Filipino-inspired dish combines the bold flavors of chili garlic sauce with succulent crab meat. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon calamansi juice (or lime juice)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the crab meat under cold water, and drain well.
2. In a large pot or wok, combine the chili garlic sauce, vegetable oil, soy sauce, calamansi juice, and black pepper.
3. Add the crab meat to the pot, stirring gently to coat evenly.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the crab is cooked through.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot with steamed rice and a dash of calamansi juice (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peruvian aji amarillo boiling crab
Experience the bold flavors of Peru with this vibrant aji amarillo boiling crab recipe, perfect for a quick and delicious meal. This dish combines the spicy kick of Peruvian yellow peppers with the succulent sweetness of fresh crab.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb jumbo lump crab meat
– 2-3 aji amarillo peppers, seeded and chopped (depending on desired heat level)
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with the water, vinegar, and olive oil.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Add the chopped aji amarillo peppers and let simmer for 5-7 minutes or until they reach desired level of heat.
4. Gently add the crab meat to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creole mustard boiling crab with andouille sausage
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this hearty crab boil recipe, infused with spicy Creole mustard and savory andouille sausage. This dish is perfect for a casual gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb king crab legs
– 2 tbsp Creole mustard
– 4 andouille sausages, sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the crab legs.
2. Add Creole mustard, sliced onions, garlic, Old Bay seasoning, and lemon juice.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add sliced andouille sausages to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Add crab legs to the pot and cook for 8-10 minutes or until they turn bright red.
6. Remove from heat and add butter to melt.
7. Serve with crusty bread and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Summary
Get ready to spice up your seafood game! This article features 18 mouth-watering boiling crab recipes from around the world, each with its own unique twist. From Louisiana-style Cajun spices to Thai-inspired coconut milk and spicy tomato broth, these recipes will transport you on a culinary journey across the globe. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or adventurous, there’s something for everyone. So, dive in and discover your new favorite boiling crab recipe!
