Steamed King Crab Legs

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King Crab Legs: The Ultimate Luxury for Seafood Lovers

If you’re a seafood lover, then you know that king crab legs are the Rolls-Royce of the ocean. Their sweet, tender meat is so indulgent, they’ve become a must-have part of our Christmas dinner tradition. In fact, they’re typically in season from October through January, making the holidays the perfect time to splurge on these beauties.

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Why Red King Crab is Worth It

Red king crab legs have the sweetest flavor—honestly, they taste like seafood candy to me! You can enjoy them straight up (they’re that good) or go all out with a side of clarified butter for a decadent dip. Want something lighter? Try a simple dip of lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a fresh, tangy twist.

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The Best Way to Cook King Crab: Steaming vs. Baking

In my opinion, steaming is hands down the best way to cook king crab legs. Steaming keeps the meat juicy and tender, preserving that delicate sweetness. Baking, on the other hand, can dry out the meat—and who wants to risk ruining such a treat? A quick steam ensures the crab stays moist, flavorful, and perfect.

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Where to Find the Best King Crab Legs

Living in LA, I usually head to Costco for my king crab haul. They often sell 10-pound boxes a week or two before Christmas. A helpful tip I learned: King crab legs are almost always sold frozen, and for good reason. After they’re caught, they’re flash-frozen right on the fishing boats to keep them fresh. Without freezing, the delicate crab meat spoils quickly once the crab dies.

Also, don’t expect to buy a whole king crab—it’s just not practical. Given the cost per pound, paying for the inedible head doesn’t make much sense and plus I don’t know anywhere that sells them whole.

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How to Spot the Real Deal

When shopping, keep an eye out for the thickness of the legs. Red king crab legs should be about an inch in diameter or thicker. I’ve been fooled before by skinny legs labeled “king crab” that turned out to be bland and disappointing.

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How Much to Buy?

Plan for one pound per person to make sure everyone gets their fill. And trust me, a pound sounds like a lot, but once you factor in the weight of the shell, it’s just the right amount.

These king crab legs are a luxurious treat that turns any dinner into a celebration. Whether you’re dipping them in butter or keeping it light with lemon, they’re a surefire way to make the holidays extra special.