Jim’s Chesapeake Bay Steamed Blue Crabs
Steamed Chesapeake bay blue crabs are one of the most delightful meals you can ever eat. So here is a proven recipe that keeps all of my friends returning each year to my annual crab feast. Every year as we begin the summer season my friends all ask me when is the crab feast? Start a summer tradition in your area if you have access to Blue Crabs. It is a great way to get together with your friends for a wonderful summer day.
Ingredients and Tools
- 1 – Large porcelain coated crab steam pot (available at Walmart, or Bass Pro Shop and other cooking
- supply stores)
- 1 – Bushel of hard shell blue crabs
- 1 – Pint of white vinegar
- 2 - Cans of beer
- 1/2 – Gallon of water
- 1 – Large shaker of Old Bay Seafood Seasoning
- 1 - Tablespoon of Cayenne pepper
Method
1. Place the cooking pot on an outdoor burner.
2. Add the vinegar, beer and then add water to the pot until it touches the bottom of the inner strainer basket.
3. Bring the steamer pot to a boil and begin adding the live crabs.
4. As you put the crabs in the pot, once you get a layer in, cover them with Old Bay seasoning.
5. Repeat this procedure until the pot is nearly full.
6. Then sprinkle the entire pot with a tablespoon of Cayenne pepper and cover with the lid.
7. Steam for about 18 to 20 minutes then remove from the pot and dump on a table covered with newspapers,
pass around the little wooden hammers, picks and knives with plenty of paper towels.
8. Oh, and don’t forget the ice cold beer.
9. These are generally accompanied by melted butter, malt vinegar and I make a little special crab bath of
vinegar and tomato juice with tons of hot spices.
Have a great time and it will become one of your fun times of the year.
