Steaming Crabs In A Turkey Fryer: Is It Possible?

A turkey fryer can be used to steam crabs. It is a great way to feed a crowd with very little prep work. The process is simple: fill the fryer with water, turn it up to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, and wait for the water to boil. You can then add crabs and other seafood like shrimp and lobster tails, as well as vegetables and sausages, to create a delicious one-pot dish. The key is to ensure that the crabs are steamed and not boiled, so they need to be elevated above the water level inside the pot. This can be done using a steamer basket or by creating a rack using bolts, cans, or other creative means. With proper preparation, a turkey fryer can be a versatile tool for cooking not just turkeys but also mouth-watering steamed crabs.

Using a steamer basket or directly in the pot

When steaming crabs, you can use either a steamer basket or place them directly in the pot. If you're using a steamer basket, you'll want to elevate it above the water. This can be done in several ways, such as using bolts, a rack, or a cookie cooling rack. Elevating the steamer basket ensures that you are steaming the crabs instead of boiling them.

If you don't have a steamer basket, you can create a makeshift one by crushing beer or soda cans and placing a piece of mesh on top. You can also use bricks, rocks, or wood blocks to elevate the crabs off the bottom of the pot. However, these options may be less stable and could take up valuable space in your pot.

When steaming crabs directly in the pot, fill your turkey fryer with water to just below the steamer basket or the max fill line, depending on the recipe you are following. Be sure to add salt and crab boil to the water for flavour. Bring the water to a boil, which should take approximately 15-20 minutes.

Once the water is boiling, you can add your crabs. Cover the pot and steam for 5-6 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Be careful not to overcook the crabs, as this can result in watery crab meat. Typically, you know they are done when a little fat comes out of them, and the apron is a little loose.

How to elevate the crabs

When steaming crabs, it is important to keep them out of the water to avoid boiling them. There are several ways to elevate the crabs above the water level in the pot:

• One method is to use a steamer basket or insert, which can be raised above the water by placing bolts or other supports underneath it. This ensures that the crabs are steamed rather than boiled.
• Another option is to create a rack or use a cookie cooling rack that fits inside the pot and sits above the water level. This allows the crabs to be placed directly on the rack without the need for a basket.
• Some people also suggest using crushed beer or soda cans to elevate the crabs. By partially crushing the cans and placing a mesh on top, you can create a platform for the crabs to sit on above the water.
• Additionally, you can use items such as rocks, bricks, or wood blocks to elevate the crabs. However, it may be challenging to find enough items of equal size to create a stable platform.
• For pots with a smaller diameter, a round Webber Bar-b-que grill grid can be placed upside down inside the pot, with the handles resting on the pot's edges to elevate the crabs.

When elevating the crabs, it is important to ensure that the lid of the pot can still be closed securely. Additionally, make sure that the crabs are not overcrowded in the pot and have enough space to cook evenly.

How long to steam crab legs

Yes, you can steam crabs in a turkey fryer. Most crab legs are sold frozen and pre-cooked, so steaming is a great way to warm them up without overcooking the crab.

To steam crab legs in a turkey fryer, fill the fryer with water to the max fill line. Set the fryer to 375°F and bring the water to a boil. This should take approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

Once the water is boiling, add the crab legs to the steamer basket, being careful not to submerge them in the water. Cover the pot and steam the crab legs for 5 to 10 minutes. If the crab legs are frozen, they may need a few extra minutes. The crab legs are done when they are thoroughly heated, opaque, and release a little fat.

• If the crab legs are frozen, be sure to thaw them before steaming. This can be done by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or running cold water over them.
• Do not lower the basket with the crab legs into the water. The goal is to steam, not boil, the crab legs.
• Avoid overcooking the crab legs, as this can make them watery, mushy, or cause the claws to fall off.
• For added flavour, you can add salt, crab boil, garlic, or vinegar to the steaming water.
• Serve the crab legs with melted butter and lemon wedges on the side.

By following these instructions and tips, you can enjoy delicious and perfectly steamed crab legs prepared in your turkey fryer.

How to prepare the crab

Preparing the crab for steaming in a turkey fryer is a simple process, but it's important to follow some key steps to ensure the best results. Here's a detailed guide on how to prepare the crab:

Selecting the Crab:

Start by choosing fresh, high-quality crabs. You can use either whole crabs or crab legs, depending on your preference. If you're using frozen crab legs, be sure to thaw them before steaming. Buying live crabs ensures they are as fresh as possible, but you can also find good-quality frozen crabs at some stores.

Cleaning the Crab:

Before steaming, it's essential to clean the crabs thoroughly. Rinse the crabs under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. You can use a brush to gently scrub the shells and ensure they are clean. Removing any debris will improve the flavour and overall experience.

Preparing the Crab for Steaming:

After cleaning, you'll need to prepare the crabs for steaming. Here are some key steps:

• Remove any unwanted parts: You may want to remove the gills, or "dead man's fingers," and the mandibles, or "mustard." These parts are not harmful, but some people prefer to remove them for aesthetic or taste reasons.
• Spicing the crab: You can add spices to the crab before steaming to enhance the flavour. Common spices used include Old Bay Seasoning, cayenne pepper, garlic, and lemon juice. You can also add vinegar to the steaming water, as it will make the meat easier to remove when eating.
• Cutting the crab: If you're using whole crabs, you may want to cut them into halves or quarters, especially if they are large. This will help ensure even cooking and make it easier to fit them into the steamer basket.

Final Steps Before Steaming:

• Prepare your steaming equipment: Ensure your turkey fryer is clean and ready to use. You'll need a large pot with a steamer basket or insert. Some people use a rack or elevate the steamer basket to keep the crabs out of the water, as boiling crabs can affect their texture.
• Bring the water to a boil: Fill the pot with water and set the turkey fryer to medium-high heat. Cover the pot and wait for the water to come to a rolling boil. This usually takes around 15 minutes.
• Add the crabs: Once you have a nice steam going, it's time to add the crabs. Place them carefully into the steamer basket or rack, ensuring they are not submerged in the water.

Remember, steaming time will depend on the size and number of crabs you are cooking. On average, steaming crabs takes around 15 to 20 minutes, but you'll know they are done when a little fat comes out, and the apron is slightly loose. Be careful not to overcook the crabs, as this can make them watery and mushy.

What to serve crab with

Crab is a rich and sweet meat, so the best side dishes complement crab legs and meat without overpowering them. Here are some ideas for what to serve with crab:

Vegetables

Raw or steamed vegetables are a quick and light side dish for crab. You could blanch green beans in well-salted water and sauté with garlic, red pepper, and butter. Alternatively, steam hard vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots to complement the rich and filling taste of crab. For added flavour, garnish the steamed veggies with a generous serving of garlic butter. You could also leave some vegetables raw for dipping into the same sauce as the crab, such as carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, celery, and snow peas.

If you have access to a grill or a grill pan, you can cook veggies and give them a subtle smoky flavour. Try tossing together a variety of in-season vegetables to bring depth of flavour to your meal. In summer, combine zucchini and bell peppers for a light, tangy dish. In autumn, try hearty vegetables like carrots, onions, and squash.

Salads

A crisp green salad is an understated and sophisticated side dish. Keep it simple with a romaine-heart salad dressed with a homemade dressing made with shallots, mustard, lemon juice, and salt and pepper. You could also try an almond Caesar salad, a pear and cashew tossed salad, or a grilled apple salad for a smoky, late-fall dish.

Potatoes

Potatoes are an excellent complement to crab. For a sophisticated flair, roast fingerling potatoes with rosemary and thyme, or stick to the basics with a bowl of mashed potatoes. But the basics don't have to be boring – drizzle garlic butter and sour cream over the top, or try twice-baked garlic mashed potatoes for an even creamier side. If you have any extra crab meat, you can toss it into mashed potatoes for a hearty twist.

French fries also take this side to the next level. For classic and quick French fries, you'll need russet potatoes, flour, paprika, vegetable oil, and garlic and onion salt. Once you cut the potatoes into thin sections, dip them into the herb and spice batter, and then fry them over the stove. Cottage fries are another option – potato slices spiced with cayenne pepper and herbs.

Bread

Crab is often served with a lemon garlic butter dip, so crusty bread is perfect for dipping.

Corn

Corn is a tasty accompaniment to crab. Steam corn on the cob with lemon juice and sugar and smear with butter, garlic, and salt before serving. Wrap ears of corn in aluminum foil and grill over hot coals for a juicy and smoky side. You could also toss together crisp corn, tomatoes, jalapeño peppers, and chopped onion for a refreshing and light corn salad, or fry some sweet corn fritters.

Noodles

Try pairing crab with Asian-inspired sides for a unique, memorable, and refreshing dinner. Cold sesame and ginger noodles with a spicy peanut sauce and fresh sliced vegetables add depth to your crab dinner.

Eggs

Deviled eggs are a creamy and savory finger food that pairs beautifully with crab. For a classic taste, mix mayo, vinegar, and mustard with egg yolks and dust with paprika. But deviled eggs are easily customized – use avocado and lemon for a green twist, or add bits of juicy bacon and minced jalapeño peppers for a spicy Southwestern flavor.

Sausage

Sausage is a great addition to a seafood boil, adding a savoury element to the dish.

Other sides

Other sides that go well with crab include artichokes, watermelon, tomato salad, mac and cheese, oyster pie, mixed pickled veggies, vegetable spring rolls, lemonade, coleslaw, cornbread, hush puppies, clam chowder, and a sourdough loaf.

Frequently asked questions