Step by Step guide: How to steam crab legs in pressure cooker ninja
Steaming crab legs in a Ninja Pressure Cooker is an efficient and straightforward way to enjoy this delicious seafood delicacy.
Follow this step-by-step guide to perfectly steamed crab legs every time.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Tools
Before you start, make sure you have everything you need:
- Fresh or frozen crab legs
- 1 cup of water
- Ninja Pressure Cooker
- A steamer basket or trivet
- Tongs or a spatula for handling the crab legs
Step 2: Prepare the Crab Legs
If you are using frozen crab legs, it’s best to thaw them before cooking.
To do this, simply place them in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. If you’re short on time, you can run them under cold water for about 30 minutes.
Step 3: Add Water to the Pressure Cooker
Pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of the Ninja Pressure Cooker. The water will create steam, which will cook the crab legs.
Step 4: Arrange the Steamer Basket
Place the steamer basket or trivet inside the pressure cooker.
This will elevate the crab legs above the water, allowing them to steam properly. Make sure the basket is sitting securely.
Step 5: Load the Crab Legs
Carefully arrange the crab legs in the steamer basket. If the legs are too long to fit standing up, you can break them at the joints or lay them down horizontally.
Just make sure they’re not crowding each other, allowing steam to circulate freely.
Step 6: Seal the Pressure Cooker
Close the lid of your Ninja Pressure Cooker. Ensure the pressure release valve is set to the sealing position. This is crucial to create the steam necessary for cooking.
Step 7: Set the Cooking Time
Select the “Steam” function on Ninja Pressure Cooker. Set the timer for 3 to 5 minutes for thawed crab legs.
If you’re using frozen crab legs, you may want to increase the cooking time to around 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 8: Start the Cooking Process
Press the Start button to begin the steaming process.
The Ninja Pressure Cooker will take a few moments to come to pressure before the timer starts.
Step 9: Release Pressure
Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure.
Carefully turn the pressure release valve to venting using a long utensil to avoid burns from steam.
Let the steam escape completely before opening the lid.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Gently remove the crab legs from the steamer basket using tongs or a spatula.
Serve them warm with melted butter, lemon wedges, and your favorite dipping sauces. Enjoy the succulent, perfectly steamed crab legs!
Tips for Perfectly Steamed Crab Legs
- Always check for doneness: Crab legs are precooked when you buy them, so you only need to heat them through.
- For added flavor, consider adding seasonings or aromatics (such as garlic or herbs) to the water.
- If you have leftover crab legs, they can be stored in the fridge and reheated in the pressure cooker for a quick meal.
By following these simple steps, you can steam crab legs in your Ninja Pressure Cooker with ease and confidence.
Essential Equipment for Steaming Crab Legs
To steam crab legs in a Ninja Pressure Cooker, you’ll need a few key pieces of equipment. Here’s a simple list with examples for each:
Ninja Pressure Cooker
- Example: Ninja Foodi Pressure Cooker, which combines pressure cooking and air frying capabilities.
Steamer Basket or Trivet
- Example: A metal steamer basket that fits into the Ninja or a trivet that comes with the pressure cooker to elevate the crab legs above the water.
Measuring Cup
- Example: A standard measuring cup to measure water, typically a 1-cup size.
Tongs or Spatula
- Example: A pair of heat-resistant tongs or a large spatula to safely remove the crab legs from the steamer basket once cooked.
Utensil for Pressure Release
- Example: A long-handled wooden spoon or a silicone spatula to safely turn the pressure release valve without getting burned by steam.
Serving Plate
- Example: A large platter or shallow bowl for serving the steamed crab legs, perfect for holding melted butter and lemon wedges.
With these essential pieces of equipment, you’ll be well-prepared to steam delicious crab legs in your Ninja Pressure Cooker!
Choosing Between Fresh and Frozen Crab Legs
When deciding on crab legs, it’s important to know the differences between fresh and frozen options, as well as what to look for in high-quality crab legs.
What to Look for in Perfect Crab Legs
Type of Crab Legs
The most popular types of crab legs include King Crab and Snow Crab. King Crab legs are thicker, meatier, and sweeter, making them a favorite among seafood lovers.
Snow Crab legs are slightly more delicate, with a sweeter flavor and a more tender texture.
Whichever you choose, make sure they are sourced sustainably.
Appearance
When selecting crab legs, look for ones that are bright in color and have a shiny exoskeleton. Avoid legs with discoloration, dents, or signs of freezer burn.
Size
Depending on your appetite and the occasion, size can matter.
King Crab legs are typically larger and meatier, while Snow Crab legs are lighter but still delicious.
Consider how many legs you’ll need based on the size you choose.
Fresh vs. Frozen Crab Legs
Fresh Crab Legs
These are usually caught and sold the same day.
If you can get your hands on fresh crab legs, they will offer the best flavor and texture.
However, their availability can be limited based on location and season.
Frozen Crab Legs
Most crab legs sold in stores are frozen shortly after being caught. This method locks in their flavor and freshness.
When choosing frozen crab legs, ensure they are vacuum-sealed and without any ice crystals or freezer burn, as this indicates they have been stored properly.
Ultimately, both fresh and frozen crab legs can be fantastic choices.
If you’re looking for convenience and availability, frozen is probably your best bet.
However, if you come across fresh options at your local seafood market, hesitate to indulge!
Recommended Cooking Liquids for Steaming
When steaming crab legs in your Ninja Pressure Cooker, the right cooking liquid can enhance the flavor and ensure that your legs remain moist and tender.
Here are some excellent options to consider:
Water
The simplest and most common choice. Use about 1-2 cups of water for steaming.
This will create enough steam to cook the crab legs thoroughly without adding any additional flavors.
Broth
Using seafood or chicken broth can infuse the crab legs with a richer taste. Replace the water with an equal amount of broth for added flavor and depth. For example, use 2 cups of chicken broth for a savory kick.
White Wine
For a gourmet touch, use white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
The acidity and flavors of the wine will complement the sweetness of the crab. Simply substitute 1 cup of water for 1 cup of white wine.
Beer
This is a unique option that can add a delightful flavor to your crab legs.
Use a light lager or a pale ale, and replace the water with beer in equal amounts. For example, use 2 cups of a light beer to steam your crab legs.
Citrus Juice
Fresh lemon or lime juice can add a bright and zesty flavor.
Mix 1/4 cup of lemon juice with 1.5 cups of water, creating a refreshing steam that will enhance the natural sweetness of the crab.
Choose any of these liquids according to your taste preferences for a delicious steamed crab leg experience!
Creating a Flavorful Garlic Butter Sauce
A rich and aromatic garlic butter sauce is a perfect addition to many dishes, especially seafood like steamed crab legs.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to making a delicious garlic butter sauce that you can whip up in no time.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
To make a flavorful garlic butter sauce, you will need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 4-6 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a medium saucepan, add the unsalted butter. Heat it over low to medium heat on the stovetop. Allow the butter to melt slowly to prevent it from burning.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Once the butter has melted completely, add the minced garlic to the saucepan. Stir it gently to combine.
Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as this can create a bitter taste.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
To enhance the flavors, add salt and pepper to taste. You can also squeeze in fresh lemon juice for a hint of acidity, which balances the richness of the butter.
Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs
If using, stir in the chopped fresh parsley. This not only adds a pop of color but also fresh flavor to the sauce. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Remove the sauce from heat and serve it warm. Drizzle the garlic butter sauce over your steamed crab legs or any of your favorite dishes for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Tips for Variations
Add
For a kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Infuse Other Flavors
Consider adding a splash of white wine or a bit of grated parmesan cheese for additional depth of flavor.
Storage
If you have leftovers, you can store the garlic butter sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently before using.
Now, you have a delicious garlic butter sauce ready to complement your seafood and other dishes!
Steaming Fresh Crab Legs: Step-by-Step Guide
Steaming fresh crab legs is a simple yet rewarding process that allows the sweet, delicate flavors of the meat to shine. Follow this step-by-step guide for perfectly steamed crab legs!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Equipment
Before you begin, make sure you have everything ready:
- Fresh crab legs
- 2 cups of water
- A large pot with a lid or a steamer pot
- A steamer basket or insert
- Tongs for handling the crab legs
- Optional: seasonings like Old Bay seasoning, lemon wedges, or melted butter for serving
Step 2: Prepare the Crab Legs
Rinse the fresh crab legs under cold water to remove any debris. If the legs are particularly long, you can break them at the joints for easier handling and serving.
Step 3: Add Water to the Pot
Pour about 2 cups of water into the bottom of your pot. The water will be used to create steam for cooking the crab legs.
Step 4: Set Up the Steamer Basket
Place the steamer basket or insert into the pot. Ensure that it sits above the water level—this allows the steam to circulate around the crab legs without them getting soaked.
Step 5: Arrange the Crab Legs in the Steamer Basket
Carefully place the crab legs in the steamer basket, making sure they’re arranged in a single layer if possible. This helps ensure even cooking and allows steam to reach all sides of the legs.
Step 6: Cover the Pot
Put the lid on the pot and make sure it fits snugly. This will trap the steam inside and cook the crab legs effectively.
Step 7: Steam the Legs
Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the crab legs steam. Fresh crab legs typically need about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure not to overcook them, as this can make the meat tough.
Step 8: Check for Doneness
After 5 to 7 minutes, check if the crab legs are fully heated. They should be bright orange and hot to the touch. If they need more time, cover the pot and steam for an additional 2-3 minutes as needed.
Step 9: Serve the Crab Legs
Once the crab legs are ready, carefully remove them from the steamer basket using tongs. Serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauces, such as melted butter, lemon juice, or seasoning.
Enjoy Your Delicious Steamed Crab Legs!
Steaming fresh crab legs is a delightful way to enjoy this seafood treat. Simple and quick to prepare, the result is a succulent dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a family meal. Bon appétit!
Steaming Frozen Crab Legs: Step-by-Step Guide
Steaming frozen crab legs is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this seafood delicacy.
Follow the steps below to steam crab legs using your Ninja Pressure Cooker for a perfectly tender and flavorful treat.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Tools
Before you begin, collect all necessary items:
- Frozen crab legs (stone crab, king crab, or snow crab)
- Ninja Pressure Cooker
- 1 cup of water
- Steamer basket or trivet
- Tongs or a spatula for easy handling
Step 2: Prepare the Crab Legs
Although you can cook crab legs straight from the freezer, thawing them slightly can improve cooking efficiency.
To thaw quickly, run the legs under cold water for about 30 minutes. If you have more time, place them in the refrigerator overnight.
Step 3: Add Water to the Pressure Cooker
Pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of the Ninja Pressure Cooker. The water will generate steam, essential for cooking the crab legs.
Step 4: Insert the Steamer Basket
Place the steamer basket or trivet inside the pressure cooker. This elevates the crab legs above the water level, allowing them to steam effectively.
Step 5: Load the Crab Legs
Carefully arrange the frozen crab legs in the steamer basket. If they are too long to stand upright, break them at the joints or lay them down flat. Make sure there is enough space in between for steam to circulate.
Step 6: Seal the Pressure Cooker
Close the lid tightly, ensuring it locks in place. Set the pressure release valve to the sealing position to create a sealed environment for steam cooking.
Step 7: Set the Cooking Time
Select the “Steam” function on your Ninja Pressure Cooker. For frozen crab legs, set the timer to 5 to 7 minutes. This will ensure they cook through adequately.
Step 8: Start the Cooking Process
Press the Start button to initiate the steaming cycle. The pressure cooker will take a moment to build up pressure before the cooking timer starts.
Step 9: Release Pressure
Once the timer goes off, perform a quick release of the pressure. Carefully switch the pressure release valve to the venting position using tongs or a long utensil to avoid burns from the escaping steam.
Allow the steam to fully exit before opening the lid.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Use tongs to carefully remove the crab legs from the steamer basket.
They are now ready to be served! Enjoy your succulent crab legs with melted butter, lemon, or your favorite dipping sauce.
By following these steps, you’ll have perfectly steamed frozen crab legs in under 15 minutes, ready to impress family and friends at your next meal!
Important Cooking Tips for Perfectly Steamed Crab Legs
Steaming crab legs can be a culinary experience, but a few well-placed tips can elevate your dish to perfection. Here are ten essential tips to help you steam crab legs successfully:
1. Choose Fresh or High-Quality Crab Legs
Example: Whether you prefer snow crabs or king crabs, select legs that are bright in color and free from unpleasant odors. Fresh legs will provide better flavor and texture.
2. Thaw Properly
Example: If using frozen crab legs, always thaw them in the refrigerator for 6-8 hours or overnight.
If you’re in a hurry, run them under cold water for 30 minutes. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
3. Use Enough Water
Example: For a Ninja Pressure Cooker, always pour in at least 1 cup of water before cooking. This liquid creates steam, which is essential for cooking the crab legs properly.
4. Utilize a Steamer Basket
Example: A steamer basket elevates the crab legs above the water, ensuring they are steamed rather than boiled. A metal trivet can also serve the same purpose.
5. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
Example: Arrange the crab legs in a single layer, allowing space between them. This promotes better steam circulation and even cooking.
6. Set the Right Cooking Time
Example: Adjust your cooking time based on whether the legs are thawed or frozen. Thawed legs typically require 3-5 minutes, while frozen legs should be steamed for 5-7 minutes.
7. Seal Properly
Example: Make sure the lid of your pressure cooker is securely locked and the pressure valve is set to ‘sealing.’ This is crucial to maintain the steam needed for cooking.
8. Conduct a Quick Pressure Release
Example: After the cooking time, use a long utensil to carefully switch the pressure release valve to ‘venting.’ This prevents burns from escaping steam and helps maintain the moisture in the crab legs.
9. Use Flavor Enhancers
Example: Add herbs or spices, such as Old Bay seasoning or lemon slices, to the water for added flavor. This can infuse the crab legs with pleasant aromas during steaming.
10. Serve Immediately for Best Taste
Example: Once the crab legs are done, remove them carefully and serve right away with melted butter and lemon wedges.
Freshly steamed crab legs are best enjoyed warm, as they can quickly cool down and become less enjoyable.
Following these tips will help you achieve sumptuous, perfectly steamed crab legs that everyone will love!
Checking for Doneness: How to Tell When Crab Legs are Ready
Knowing when your crab legs are perfectly cooked is crucial for enjoying their tender, juicy flavor. After you release the pressure and open the lid, follow these tips to check for doneness:
Color Check
Freshly steamed crab legs should appear a vibrant orange or reddish color. If they still look pale or translucent, they may need a bit more time.
Temperature Measurement
For the most accurate assessment, use an instant-read thermometer. Crab meat should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Texture Assessment
Using tongs or a spatula, gently pull apart a leg segment. The meat should be tender and should easily separate from the shell. If it feels tough or chewy, it may require more steaming.
Juices Should Be Clear
If you notice any juices running from the crab legs when you crack them open, they should be clear rather than cloudy or milky. Clear juices are an indication of properly cooked crab.
Cooking Time Verification
Generally, if you followed the recommended cooking time of 3 to 5 minutes for thawed legs or 5 to 7 minutes for frozen legs, they should be done.
Adjust as needed, but avoid overcooking to maintain the sweetness and texture of the meat.
By following these simple checks, you can ensure your crab legs come out perfectly steamed and ready to enjoy!
Serving Suggestions for Steamed Crab Legs
Once you have steamed crab legs, the fun of serving and enjoying them begins! Here are five delicious serving suggestions to elevate your crab leg experience:
Classic Butter Dipping Sauce
Serve your steamed crab legs with melted butter for dipping.
Simply melt unsalted butter and add a squeeze of lemon juice for a touch of freshness.
This rich dipping sauce enhances the sweet, briny flavor of the crab.
Example: Set out small ramekins filled with warm butter and lemon juice alongside your crab legs for guests to dip at their convenience.
Garlic Lemon Herb Infusion
Infuse melted butter with minced garlic, fresh herbs like parsley or dill, and a hint of lemon zest. This aromatic sauce brings a gourmet touch to your crab legs.
Example: Mix together melted butter with sautéed garlic and finely chopped herbs in a small bowl for a flavorful dipping experience.
Spicy Cajun Seasoning
Add some heat to your meal by serving steamed crab legs with a spicy Cajun seasoning blend. Combine paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and other spices for a delicious kick.
Example: Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the steamed crab legs or serve it on the side in a small dish for a flavorful twist.
Fresh Salsa Verde
Pair crab legs with a zesty salsa verde made from tomatillos, cilantro, garlic, and lime juice for a fresh and tangy contrast to the rich crab meat.
Example: Serve the salsa verde in a bowl for dipping and watch your guests appreciate the vibrant flavor profile it adds.
Traditional Side Dishes
Complete the meal with traditional side dishes like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or garlic bread. These complement the crab legs nicely and create a more filling dining experience.
Example: Arrange a platter with steamed crab legs alongside a bowl of creamy coleslaw and freshly grilled corn for a classic seafood feast.
These serving suggestions can help create an inviting atmosphere and enhance the overall dining experience with your steamed crab legs!
Enjoy experimenting with flavors and pairings to find your perfect combination.
Features of the Ninja Foodi for Steaming Seafood
The Ninja Foodi is a versatile kitchen appliance that excels in steaming seafood, including delicious crab legs.
Here are the top 10 features that make it ideal for this task, along with examples for each:
Pressure Cooking Function
Example: The ability to pressure cook ensures that crab legs steam quickly and retain their natural juices, resulting in moist, flavorful meat.
Steam Basket
Example: The included steam basket allows you to elevate the crab legs above the water, letting steam circulate evenly for perfect cooking.
Delicate Seafood Program
Example: This pre-set program optimizes cooking time and pressure for seafood, making it foolproof to achieve perfectly steamed crab legs without guesswork.
Adjustable Cooking Time
Example: You can customize the cooking time for crab legs based on their size, ensuring everything is cooked to perfection, whether you have large king crab legs or smaller snow crabs.
Sealing Lid
Example: The sealing lid locks in steam during cooking, enriching the flavors of your crab legs while preventing moisture from escaping.
Quick Release Valve
Example: If you’re in a hurry to enjoy your meal, the quick release valve allows you to let out steam quickly and safely, reducing your wait time significantly.
Multi-cooker Capacity
Example: The Ninja Foodi’s ability to pressure cook, slow cook, air fry, and sauté means you can prepare accompanying dishes simultaneously, like garlic butter for dipping, saving you time in the kitchen.
High-Quality Non-Stick Interior
Example: The non-stick coating makes cleaning a breeze, allowing you to focus on enjoying your freshly steamed crab legs without worrying about stubborn residue.
Temperature Control Settings
Example: With precise temperature settings, you can tailor your cooking approach, ensuring that delicate crab meat is cooked just right, avoiding overcooking.
Compact Design
Example: Its sleek, compact design means it won’t take up much space on your countertop, making it easy to store and convenient to use for quick seafood meals.
These features of the Ninja Foodi not only simplify the process of steaming crab legs but also enhance the overall cooking experience, yielding perfectly prepared seafood every time.
Is it necessary to thaw frozen crab legs before cooking?
No, it’s not necessary. You can cook frozen crab legs directly, but they will take a bit longer to steam compared to thawed ones.
If you want to save time, thawing them in the refrigerator or under cold water is a good option.
What should I do if my crab legs are overcooked?
If you’ve accidentally overcooked your crab legs, don’t worry!
Although they may not be perfect, there are several steps you can take to salvage the dish and enhance the flavor.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you deal with overcooked crab legs:
Assess the Damage
Look for Texture: Check if the crab meat is tough or rubbery. Overcooked crab legs can feel hard to the touch, and the meat may be shrinking away from the shell.
Check Flavor: Taste a small piece to see if the flavor is still enjoyable or if it has become too dry.
Moisturize the Meat
Butter or Oil: Melt some butter or heat a small amount of olive oil, and use a brush to coat the overcooked crab legs. This will add moisture and flavor to the meat.
Use Broth: If you have seafood or chicken broth on hand, warm some up and dip the crab legs in it for a few moments to hydrate the meat.
Create a Sauce
Garlic Butter Sauce: Make a garlic butter sauce by sautéing minced garlic in butter and adding herbs (like parsley or Old Bay seasoning). Drizzle this over the crab legs to mask any dryness.
Creamy Dipping Sauce: Whisk together sour cream, lemon juice, and garlic powder for a creamy dip that can add flavor and help with texture.
Repurpose Leftover Crab Meat
Crab Cakes: Use the overcooked crab meat to make crab cakes. Mix it with breadcrumbs, an egg, and seasonings, then pan-fry them until golden brown.
Salads & Pasta: Chop the crab meat and toss it in a salad or mix it into pasta with your choice of sauce to enhance the overall taste and texture.
Learn for Next Time
Monitor Cooking Times: In the future, keep a close eye on cooking times and test a crab leg at the minimum time suggested for your pressure cooker.
Use a Timer: Set a timer to remind you when it’s time to release the pressure, ensuring you don’t accidentally overcook during the wait.
Follow these steps to turn your overcooked crab legs into a delicious meal, and remember, cooking is all about learning and refining your technique!
Can you reheat crab legs in the pressure cooker?
Yes, you can reheat crab legs in pressure cooker. Just add a little water to the pot, place the crab legs on a rack, and cook on high pressure for about 2 to 3 minutes.
This will warm them up nicely without drying them out.
How long does it take to steam crab legs?
It takes about 5 to 7 minutes to steam crab legs in a pressure cooker.
If you’re the Ninja Foodi, this might be even quicker because it heats up fast!
Just be sure to check the size of the crab legs, as larger ones may need a minute or two more.
Is steaming or boiling better for crab legs?
Steaming is generally better for crab legs boiling.
Steaming helps retain more flavor and moisture in the meat, making it more tender and delicious.
Boiling can lead to waterlogged meat and less flavor. So, for the best tasting crab legs, steaming is the way to go!
How do you steam crab legs in the air fryer?
Steaming crab legs in a Ninja pressure cooker is a quick and efficient way to enjoy this seafood. Follow these simple steps for perfectly steamed crab legs that are bursting with flavor.
Ingredients You Will Need
- Fresh or frozen crab legs
- Water
- Optional: Old Bay seasoning, lemon wedges, or garlic (for added flavor)
Equipment
- Ninja Pressure Cooker
- Steamer basket or trivet
Step-by-Step Procedure
Prepare the Crab Legs
If using frozen crab legs, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for about 30 minutes.
If using fresh crab legs, simply rinse them under cold running water to remove any debris.
Add Water to the Pressure Cooker
Pour about 1 cup of water into the inner pot of your Ninja pressure cooker.
This water will create steam during cooking, which is essential for steaming the crab legs.
Insert the Steamer Basket or Trivet
Place a steamer basket or a trivet inside the pot. This elevates the crab legs above the water level, allowing them to steam instead of boil.
Arrange the Crab Legs
If the crab legs are too long, you may need to bend or cut them to fit. Place the crab legs in the steamer basket or on top of the trivet, stacking them if necessary for an even steam.
Season (Optional)
For added flavor, you can sprinkle Old Bay seasoning over the crab legs, or add sliced lemons and garlic to the water before sealing the lid.
Seal the Lid
Close the lid of the Ninja pressure cooker and ensure the pressure valve is set to “Sealing.”
Set the Pressure Cooking Time
Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” setting and set the timer for 3–5 minutes, depending on the size of the crab legs:
- Smaller snow crab legs: 3 minutes
- Larger king crab legs: 5 minutes
Start Cooking
Press the “Start” button to begin the cooking process. The Ninja will take a few moments to come to pressure before the timer starts counting down.
Quick Release the Pressure
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully turn the pressure valve to “Venting” for a quick release of steam. Be careful of the hot steam as it escapes.
Remove the Crab Legs
Once all the steam has released and the pressure indicator drops, open the lid. Use tongs to carefully remove the crab legs from the steamer basket.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve the crab legs warm with butter, lemon wedges, or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the tender and flavorful crab meat!
Final Thoughts
Steaming crab legs in a Ninja pressure cooker is not only simple but also ensures delicious, succulent meat.
With this step-by-step guide, you can impress your family and friends with a seafood feast in no time!
