Step by Step Guide: how to cook frozen crab legs in instant pot
Cooking frozen crab legs in an Instant Pot is not only quick and convenient, but it also allows the flavors to be locked in, resulting in succulent and tender meat.
Follow this step-by-step guide to prepare perfectly cooked crab legs every time.
Ingredients Needed
- 2 to 3 pounds of frozen crab legs
- 1 cup of water
- Optional: Old Bay seasoning, lemon wedges, melted butter for serving
Equipment Needed
- Instant Pot or another electric pressure cooker
- Tongs
- Serving plate
Step-by-Step Procedure
Step 1: Prepare the Instant Pot
- Add Water: Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot. This is crucial because the water generates steam, which will cook the crab legs.
- Add the Steamer Rack: Place the trivet or a steamer basket into the pot. This will keep the crab legs above the water, allowing steam to circulate around them.
Step 2: Prepare the Crab Legs
- No Need to Thaw: There’s no need to thaw the frozen crab legs; you can cook them directly from frozen. If they’re stuck together, you can run them under cold water for a minute to separate them slightly.
- Arrange the Crab Legs: Carefully stack the crab legs in the Instant Pot, bending them if necessary, so they fit comfortably above the water. You may have to layer them, depending on the size of your pot.
Step 3: Set Your Instant Pot
- Seal the Lid: Make sure the lid is securely sealed, and the steam release valve is set to the “Sealing” position.
- Select Pressure Cook: Set the Instant Pot to the “Pressure” or “Manual” setting. Adjust the cooking time to 5 minutes for frozen crab legs (this will work for king crab and snow crab legs).
Step 4: Cooking Time
- Cook Under Pressure: Once the time is set, the Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come up to pressure. After the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 5 minutes, and then perform a quick release to let out any remaining steam.
Step 5: Enjoy!
- Remove the Crab Legs: Using tongs, carefully lift out the crab legs. They will be hot, so handle them with care.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the crab legs with melted butter, lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning for added flavor.
Tips for Best Results
- Enhancing Flavor: You can add seasonings directly to the water for extra flavor. Garlic, herbs, or lemon juice work well.
- Cooking Multiple Batches: If you’re cooking a large amount, you might need to do it in batches to ensure even cooking.
Nutritional Information (per 3 oz serving of crab legs)
- Calories: 70-90
- Protein: 16-18 g
- Total Fat: 1-2 g
- Saturated Fat: 0-1 g
- Cholesterol: 50-60 mg
- Sodium: 400-500 mg (varies with seasoning)
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sugar: 0 g
Conclusion
Cooking frozen crab legs in an Instant Pot is a simple process that yields delicious results. With just a few steps, you can enjoy a gourmet seafood dish at home.
Whether it’s for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this method will make you a seafood hero in no time!
This article will guide you through the simple yet effective steps to cook frozen crab legs in an Instant Pot, ensuring a flavorful and delightful outcome that will impress your dinner guests.
Whether you’re looking to savor them with garlic butter sauce or pair them with complementary side dishes, we’ve got you covered every step of the way.
Choose the type of crab legs (e.g., snow, king)
When selecting crab legs for your next seafood feast, you have a few delicious options, each with unique characteristics. Here’s how to choose the type of crab legs to suit your taste and budget:
Alaskan King Crab Legs
- Size: Impressively large
- Flavor: Rich and distinctive
- Price: Higher, premium choice for special occasions
- Availability: Sold individually
Snow Crab Legs
- Size: More moderate than king crab legs, still generous
- Flavor: Slightly sweeter and more subtle
- Price: More affordable, great value
- Handling: Smooth, easier-to-crack shells ideal for family meals
- Availability: Sold in clusters (usually with 4 or more legs)
Whether you crave the luxurious, meaty bites of king crab legs or the sweet tenderness of snow crab clusters, both can make a delightful addition to your table.
Budget-conscious diners might lean towards snow crab legs for their relative affordability without sacrificing flavor, while those looking to indulge may opt for the impressive king crab.
Remember, with either choice, pairing with melted unsalted butter and fresh lemon wedges enhances the natural taste of the crab.
Decide whether to thaw the crab legs before cooking
Deciding whether to thaw crab legs before cooking in an Instant Pot depends on your time constraints and the size of the crab legs.
If your frozen crab legs are too large and stiff to fit into the pot, briefly running them under hot water can make them more pliable.
However, it’s not a necessity to thaw them completely, as they will cook well directly from frozen.
Thawing crab legs does come with benefits—it reduces the cooking time, making the preparation process quicker.
Also, thawed snow crab legs, in particular, become more flexible, which can make arranging them in the Instant Pot easier, no matter their size or cluster configuration.
This is especially useful when working with larger quantities or larger types of crab, such as king crab legs.
It’s important to remember that most crab legs sold in stores have already been pre-cooked.
Consequently, whether you decide to cook them from frozen or after thawing, you’re essentially reheating them.
For best results, consider your timing, the Instant Pot’s capacity, and the type and size of the crab legs you have when determining whether to thaw them prior to cooking.
Prepare the Instant Pot for cooking
To begin cooking frozen crab legs in your Instant Pot, follow these simple steps to prepare the device for cooking.
Firstly, you need 1 cup of water, which is essential to create the necessary steam. Pour this into the bottom of your Instant Pot.
Next, place a metal trivet or a steamer basket inside the pot.
This will serve as a stand to elevate the crab legs above the surface of the water, preventing them from becoming soggy during the cooking process.
Before you start cooking, make sure the lid of your Instant Pot is securely locked in place. This is crucial to ensure that pressure is maintained without any leaks.
Now, set your Instant Pot to cook on high pressure.
The cooking time will vary depending on whether your crab legs are frozen or thawed—but for frozen crab legs, the general recommendation is 3-5 minutes.
Once the cooking time has elapsed, it’s paramount to release the pressure carefully.
Perform a quick release by following the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid overcooking the crab legs, which can impact their texture and flavor.
With your Instant Pot now ready, you’re set to enjoy perfectly cooked crab legs in no time.
Add water to the Instant Pot
When preparing to cook frozen crab legs in your Instant Pot, it’s crucial to first add 1 cup of water to the pot.
This water forms the foundation for the steam cooking process and should be poured into the bottom of the Instant Pot prior to arranging your ingredients.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:
- Pour 1 cup of cold water into the Instant Pot’s inner pot.
- Place the steam rack inside. While not mandatory, it is advised to use a steam rack to prevent the crab legs from touching the pot’s base.
- If you don’t have a steam rack, you can still proceed by carefully placing the crab legs directly into the water.
The water serves the essential function of generating steam when it boils, which is vital for pressure cooking.
Ensuring that the crab legs are not in direct contact with the pot’s hot surface is important for even cooking without scorching.
By following these simple steps, you’re setting yourself up for perfectly steamed crab legs, ready to be served with melted butter, lemon wedges, or your seasoning of choice.
Incorporate essential ingredients (e.g., garlic, lemon)
Cooking frozen crab legs in an Instant Pot is a convenient method, and by adding essential ingredients like garlic and lemon, you can elevate the flavor to new heights.
Begin by warming your water in the Instant Pot on a high heat setting until it reaches a bubbling boil. This creates the perfect environment for steaming the crab legs.
For a burst of citrus, slice a fresh lemon and include the wedges in the water, which imparts a refreshing undertone throughout the cooking process.
Garlic is another key flavor enhancer; whether you opt for fresh garlic cloves or pre-minced garlic from the store, adding it to your Instant Pot will give the crab legs a rich, savory taste.
For an even more potent garlic flavor, consider adding a split head of garlic to infuse the water and crab meat as they cook.
A spritz of lemon juice or a liberal shake of Old Bay seasoning, along with a pinch of salt, can round out the flavors, ensuring the crab legs are not just tender, but also deliciously seasoned.
Incorporating these ingredients will create a mouth-watering aroma and transform your Instant Pot crab legs into a gourmet seafood feast.
Place the crab legs in the steamer basket
Placing the crab legs in the steamer basket is an essential step to achieving perfectly cooked, succulent crab legs.
When working with a steamer basket in an Instant Pot, it’s important to manage space and steam for the best results.
Begin by adding about an inch of water to the Instant Pot, ensuring that the water does not touch the bottom of the steamer basket when it’s inserted.
This water is crucial as it will create the steam that cooks the crab legs.
Once your water is in and begins to boil, arrange the frozen crab legs in the steamer basket.
If you are dealing with crab leg clusters, especially from snow crab or king crab, make sure they are arranged in a way that allows the steam to circulate freely around each cluster.
This prevents the crab legs from being unevenly cooked or, even worse, leaving some parts undercooked.
Avoid overcrowding the basket; the crab legs should not be piled high. Instead, the crab legs should be placed in a single layer or spaced out as much as possible.
This step can significantly affect the cook time, as crowded crab legs may require additional time or may cook unevenly.
Once arranged correctly, you can place the steamer basket into the Instant Pot and proceed with the pressure cooking process.
This method is a quick and efficient way to serve up delicious, steamy crab legs any time you crave a taste of the sea.
Set the cooking time for frozen crab legs
Cooking frozen crab legs in an Instant Pot is an efficient method to enjoy a seafood feast at home.
When preparing frozen snow crab legs, adjust the Instant Pot’s cooking time to 3-4 minutes and bear in mind that the pot will take roughly an additional 5 minutes to reach the necessary pressure.
For larger king crab legs, increase the cook time to 5-6 minutes to ensure they are heated through adequately.
Before placing your crab legs in the Instant Pot, let them rest at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes; this slight thaw helps in fitting them into the pot more easily.
Remember, the cooking time remains the same for both frozen and thawed crab legs, but starting from frozen means it may take the pot a bit longer to come to pressure.
For flavor enhancement, consider adding a cup of water to the pot along with optional seasonings like bay seasoning or fresh garlic cloves.
After cooking, quick-release the pressure and serve the crab legs with lemon wedges, melted unsalted butter, and, if you like, additional spices for dipping.
And don’t forget the crab crackers for easy shell removal. Enjoy your succulent crab meat with all the trimmings of a traditional seafood boil right from the comfort of home.
Use the correct pressure setting
Cooking frozen crab legs in an Instant Pot is a quick and delicious way to enjoy this seafood delicacy.
To achieve the best results, it’s crucial to use the correct pressure setting.
For the Instant Pot and similar appliances such as the Ninja Foodi, the pressure setting should be on high to effectively cook frozen crab legs.
Using high pressure ensures the crab legs are heated all the way through, maintaining their delicate texture without overcooking.
When you start the pressure cooking process, be aware that the actual cook time is approximately 7 minutes for frozen crab legs, but the pot will take additional time to come to pressure before the cook time begins.
If your crab legs are thawed, reduce the cook time to just 2 minutes.
Regardless of the cook time, perform a quick release of pressure as soon as the cooking cycle is complete. This step is essential to prevent the crab legs from becoming too soft or rubbery.
For an 8 quart Instant Pot, you can comfortably fit in about 2.5 to 3 pounds of snow crab legs, and the cook time doesn’t change with the quantity.
Simply ensure that the crab legs are placed in a steamer basket inside the pot for even cooking.
Release the pressure after cooking
Releasing the pressure after cooking crab legs in your Instant Pot is a crucial step in the cooking process.
Here’s how to safely perform a quick pressure release:
- Once the cook time is complete, use caution as you approach the Instant Pot, as it’s under high pressure and steam is extremely hot.
- Carefully turn or press the steam release valve to initiate the quick release of pressure. Use a kitchen utensil or wear protective gloves to avoid direct contact with the steam.
- Stand back while the steam escapes. You’ll hear a hissing sound which indicates the pressure is releasing.
- Wait until the hissing stops and the float valve drops down, signaling that the pressure is fully released.
- Only after the pressure has been fully released is it safe to open the lid. Carefully open the lid away from your face to avoid the hot steam.
- The cooked crab legs can stay in the warm inner pot for a few extra minutes if not serving immediately.
Remember, the liquid left in the bottom of the pot is infused with flavor and can be spooned over the crab legs for added taste.
Always handle the Instant Pot with care during pressure release to ensure a safe and enjoyable seafood experience.
Remove the crab legs safely
Removing crab legs safely after cooking in an Instant Pot is a crucial step to ensure you enjoy your meal without any mishaps.
When the cook time is complete, take the following steps to handle the crab legs carefully:
- Perform a Quick Release of pressure according to your Instant Pot model instructions. This ensures that any built-up steam is safely vented before opening the lid.
- Once the pressure has fully released and the valve drops, carefully open the lid, directing it away from you to avoid the hot steam.
- Use tongs designed for handling hot food to grasp the crab legs. This will help you maintain a safe distance from the hot liquid at the bottom of the pot, reducing the risk of burns.
- Transfer the crab legs immediately to a serving dish or a baking sheet if you plan to broil them for further crisping. Prompt removal after cooking prevents overcooking and helps the crab meat retain its succulent flavor and texture.
- For an extra touch of flavor, spoon a bit of the aromatic cooking liquid from the Instant Pot over the crab legs. This enriches them with moisture and adds a depth of taste to the already delicious seafood.
Remember to handle your crab legs gently to preserve the delicate crab meat and to use caution with the hot equipment and steam.
Enhance flavor with garlic butter sauce
The allure of succulent crab legs is elevated when paired with a classic garlic butter sauce.
This simple yet delectable condiment is a must-have for unlocking the full potential of crab flavors.
Whether you’re enjoying king crab legs, snow crab legs, or any type of crab clusters, whipping up a batch of garlic butter sauce will enhance your seafood experience.
To make this gastronomic delight, start with melted unsalted butter, ensuring a pure, rich taste.
Stir in finely minced fresh garlic or garlic powder to infuse a pungent, aromatic essence.
A pinch of kosher salt and a sprinkle of parsley flakes add layers of flavor, while a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice cuts through the richness and brings out the natural sweetness of the crab meat.
For those with a penchant for innovation, consider stirring in the leftover stock from the crab legs into the sauce for an intensified seafood essence.
Alternatively, mix in grated parmesan cheese and a dash of red pepper flakes for a creamy, spicy twist.
Serve this indulgent garlic butter sauce with your perfectly cooked crab legs, and provide lemon wedges for that extra zing.
It’s an impeccable combination that elevates every bite and makes even the most basic seasonings, like bay seasoning, sing on your palate.
Remember, the right accompaniment, like a homemade garlic butter sauce, is key to making your crab feast unforgettable.
Serving suggestions for crab legs
Serving crab legs can transform a simple meal into an extravagant feast, and with the right accompaniments, you’ll impress any seafood aficionado.
Begin with a side of melted butter, perfect for dipping those succulent morsels and enhancing their natural sweetness.
A squirt of fresh lemon juice or a set of lemon wedges on the side is a must, as the citrus cuts through the richness and brightens the crab’s flavor.
Don’t hesitate to sprinkle a robust seafood seasoning blend like Old Bay over your crab legs; it will introduce a delightful kick that marries well with the delicate taste of the meat.
Regarding sides, a classic pairing would be steaming ears of corn on the cob and tender potatoes, creating an iconic seafood boil vibe right at your dinner table.
For those inclined towards a more gourmet touch, consider plating the crab legs atop a heap of rice infused with fresh garlic and herbs.
This aromatic base not only absorbs the juices dripping from the crab but also rounds off each bite with earthy undertones.
Serving Suggestions for Crab Legs
- Dips: Melted unsalted butter
- Citrus: Lemon wedges or fresh lemon juice
- Seasoning: Seafood blend (like bay seasoning)
- Sides: Corn on the cob, potatoes
- Gourmet Upgrade: Over garlic herb rice
Whether you’re serving snow crab leg clusters or indulgent king crab legs, these serving suggestions are sure to create a memorable dining experience.
Recommended side dishes to accompany crab legs
Crab legs are a seafood delicacy that pair beautifully with a variety of sides.
When indulging in this elegant fare, consider complementing your meal with hearty and flavorful accompaniments.
Melted butter infused with fresh garlic is a must-have; its creamy richness marries perfectly with the tender crab meat.
Simply melt unsalted butter, add minced garlic cloves, and let your guests drizzle to their heart’s content.
For a touch of zest, offer lemon wedges on the side.
The fresh lemon juice adds a contrasting sharpness to the sweet crab legs, enhancing their natural flavor.
Shake things up by seasoning the crab legs with Old Bay seasoning or Cajun seasoning for those who fancy a kick.
These spices are especially suited for varieties such as snow crab legs or king crab legs, bringing a savory depth to every bite.
Complete your feast with a gluten-free corn casserole.
Its warm, comforting essence doesn’t overshadow the crab but rather complements its delicate taste, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s as satisfying as it is compatible with your main course.
Enjoy the harmony of flavors as these side dishes elevate your crab leg experience to new heights.
Storing leftovers properly
Storing leftover crab legs properly is crucial to maintain their freshness and safety for future consumption.
Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious crab feast, make sure to handle the leftovers with care.
Begin by removing the crab meat from the shells. Allow the meat to cool to room temperature before packing it into an airtight container.
This ensures the crab meat stays fresh for later use, with the USDA recommending a refrigerator storage time of 2-3 days for optimal safety.
Don’t discard those leftover crab shells! They hold the key to a flavorful seafood stock that can elevate your next dish.
When making crab stock, place the shells in a pot and cover them with just enough water to submerge.
For that extra punch of flavor, throw in some aromatics like garlic cloves and onion. Remember to consume this homemade stock within 3 days of refrigeration to enjoy the best quality and taste.
By following these tips, you can reduce waste and savor the delightful essence of crab in various culinary creations long after your initial meal.
| Leftover Handling Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Remove Meat from Shells | Do so gently; allow to cool |
| Store Crab Meat | Use an airtight container; refrigerate |
| Make Crab Stock | Submerge shells in water; add flavors |
| Refrigeration Timeframe | Crab meat: 2-3 days; Stock: 3 days |
Reheating options for leftover crab legs
When you have leftover crab legs and want to enjoy them just as delicious as the first time, using an Instant Pot for reheating is a quick and efficient method.
Here’s a simple guide on how to reheat both snow crab legs and king crab legs.
- Pour 1 Cup of Water: Start by adding a cup of water into your Instant Pot. This will generate the necessary steam for reheating.
- Place Metal Trivet: Insert the metal trivet into the pot to keep the crab legs out of the water.
- Stack the Crab Legs: Arrange your leftover crab leg clusters on the trivet. For king crab legs, since they are larger, you may reheat them in batches.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and pressure cook on HIGH. If reheating snow crab legs, set the cook time to 3 minutes. For king crab legs, set the Instant Pot to 0 minutes; they will warm up perfectly as the pot reaches pressure.
- Quick Release: Once cooking is complete, perform a quick release to prevent overcooking.
- Serve with Melted Butter: Enjoy your reheated crab legs with a side of melted unsalted butter, possibly infused with fresh garlic for extra flavor.
Always remember not to reheat crab legs more than once to maintain their delicate texture, and store any leftover crab meat properly in an airtight container inside the fridge for 2-3 days.
Alternative cooking methods (e.g., Ninja Foodi)
Cooking succulent crab legs in a Ninja Foodi is a straightforward and quick method to enjoy this seafood delicacy.
Unlike traditional steaming pots, the Ninja Foodi uses high pressure to cook frozen crab legs in just 5 minutes.
Follow these steps for a flawless meal:
- Preparation: Place the rack that came with your Ninja Foodi into the pot. This is essential for keeping the crab legs above the water so they can steam evenly without becoming waterlogged.
- Seasoning: To infuse the crab legs with extra flavor, pour water into the pot and consider adding Old Bay seasoning. Adjust the amount of seasoning based on your personal flavor preferences. For extra zest, some people might add a couple of garlic cloves or even fresh garlic to the mix.
- Cooking:
- Arrange the crab leg clusters on the rack.
- Secure the lid, ensure the pressure release valve is set to ‘Seal’, and select the ‘Pressure Cook’ option.
- Adjust the cook time to 5 minutes for a pound of crab legs.
- Finishing: Once the cooking cycle completes, carefully perform a Quick Release to avoid overcooking. This is vital to maintain the tenderness and moisture of the crab meat.
Enjoy the crab legs with side servings of melted unsalted butter, fresh lemon wedges, and additional dipping sauces as desired.
For easy cracking, have crab crackers on hand. Pair your crab legs with sides such as corn, potatoes, or a fresh salad to complement the rich flavors of the sea.
Common mistakes to avoid when cooking crab legs
Cooking crab legs to perfection requires attention to detail and avoiding common pitfalls.
One of the frequent missteps is improper thawing. To ensure even cooking, crab legs should be thawed either overnight in the refrigerator or under a stream of cold water.
Another oversight is the lack of seasoning in the water. Spices, particularly Old Bay seasoning, are crucial for infusing the crab legs with flavor.
Simply boiling them in unseasoned water results in a bland taste.
Additionally, overcooking is a sure way to ruin the delicate texture of crab meat, making it tough and rubbery. Aim for a cook time of around 6-8 minutes, adjusting slightly based on the size of the legs.
The volume of water used is also important. Ensure there’s enough hot water in the pot to fully cover the crab legs for consistent cooking.
Lastly, kitchen safety is paramount. Not using tongs or a slotted spoon when handling the hot crab legs can lead to dangerous splashes. Taking these precautions not only makes cooking safer but also more enjoyable.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying succulent and flavorful crab legs.
Final thoughts on enjoying crab legs cooked in an Instant Pot
Cooking crab legs in an Instant Pot is an efficient and flavorful way to enjoy your favorite seafood.
Whether you’re preparing snow crab legs, king crab legs, or any other type of crab legs, the quick and intense heat of pressure cooking locks in the succulence of the meat.
Conveniently, there’s no need to thaw frozen snow crab legs before placing them into the pot, saving you prep time.
Once the cooking process is complete, using a quick release ensures that the crab legs are not overcooked, preserving their delicate texture.
The process is easy – just a cup of water and a sprinkle of old bay seasoning in the steamer basket can yield wonderfully seasoned crab legs in minutes.
Serve these perfectly cooked legs straight from the Instant Pot with additional flavor enhancers.
Melted unsalted butter, alongside fresh lemon wedges or a sprinkle of lemon juice, makes for a divine dipping sauce that complements the natural sweetness of the crab meat.
Utensils like crab crackers can come in handy to easily access the succulent flesh.
Relishing crab legs cooked in an Instant Pot is truly an indulgent experience.
It’s a simple, mess-free approach that results in a seafood feast that rivals any fancy restaurant offering. With minimal fuss and maximum flavor, it’s a method seafood enthusiasts are bound to cherish.
