How to Cook Hairy Crab: A Simple Guide

If you're a foodie, you've probably heard of hairy crab. This seasonal delicacy is a must-try for anyone who loves seafood. Hairy crab is typically found in China, particularly in the Yangcheng Lake region, and is only available during the autumn months.

Preparing and cooking hairy crab can be a bit daunting, especially if you're unfamiliar with the process. However, with a little bit of know-how, you can cook this delicious seafood at home. In this article, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about preparing and cooking hairy crab, including tips and tricks to help you get the best results.

Key Takeaways

• Hairy crab is a seasonal delicacy found in China's Yangcheng Lake region.
• Cooking hairy crab can be intimidating, but with a bit of knowledge, it's easy to prepare at home.
• This article provides tips and tricks to help you get the best results when cooking hairy crab.

Preparing the Hairy Crab

Before you start cooking your hairy crab, it is important to prepare it properly. Here are the steps you need to follow:

Cleaning the Crab

Firstly, you need to clean the hairy crab. If the crab is still alive, you should put it in the freezer for 30 minutes to put it to sleep. Once it is asleep, take it out and scrub the shell with a brush to remove any dirt or impurities. Rinse the crab under cold running water to remove any remaining dirt.

Setting Up the Steamer

Next, you need to set up your steamer. Fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Place a steaming plate on top of the pot and add the hairy crab to the plate. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the crab for 15 minutes.

Once the crab is cooked, remove it from the steamer and let it cool down for a few minutes. You can serve the crab whole or cut it into pieces.

Cooking and Serving

Steaming the Hairy Crab

To cook hairy crab, steaming is the best method as it preserves the delicate flavour of the meat and the creamy roe. First, clean the crab by brushing it with a toothbrush to remove any dirt or impurities. Then, tie the claws together with string to prevent them from falling apart during steaming. Place the crab in a steamer basket and steam for 15-20 minutes for crabs up to 250g. For larger crabs, steam for an additional 5 minutes for every 50g.

Making the Dipping Sauce

The dipping sauce is an essential part of the hairy crab feast. To make the dipping sauce, mix black vinegar, brown sugar, and minced ginger in a small bowl. The ratio of vinegar to sugar should be 2:1. Adjust the amount of ginger according to your preference. The dipping sauce should be served hot.

How to Eat Hairy Crab

To eat hairy crab, first, remove the claws and crack them open with a nutcracker. Then, remove the carapace and set it aside. Use a small spoon to scoop out the creamy roe and spread it on a piece of steamed bun or bread. Dip the meat in the vinegar dipping sauce and enjoy the delicate flavour of the crab. Don't forget to take some photos to remember the feast!

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to prepare hairy crab in an air fryer?

Unfortunately, air frying is not a recommended method for cooking hairy crab. The traditional method of steaming is the best way to prepare hairy crab. This is because the delicate meat of the crab can easily become overcooked or dry in an air fryer. Therefore, it is best to stick to the traditional steaming method.

Can you give me tips on eating hairy crab properly?

Eating hairy crab can be a bit tricky, especially if you're not familiar with the process. Here are some tips to help you eat hairy crab properly:

• Use a pair of scissors to cut the shell and legs of the crab.
• Remove the gills and the lungs, which are located on the sides of the crab.
• Use a small fork or a toothpick to extract the meat from the legs and claws.
• Use a spoon to scoop out the roe from the crab's body.
• Dip the meat and roe in a mixture of vinegar and ginger.

How much time should I boil hairy crabs to cook them thoroughly?

Boiling is not the recommended method for cooking hairy crab. The best way to cook hairy crab is to steam it for about 15-20 minutes. This will ensure that the meat is cooked thoroughly without becoming overcooked or dry.

What are the steps to properly clean a hairy crab before cooking?

Cleaning hairy crab is an important step in the cooking process. Here are the steps to properly clean a hairy crab before cooking:

• Rinse the crab under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
• Use a small brush or toothbrush to gently scrub the shell and legs of the crab.
• Remove the top shell of the crab and discard the gills and lungs.
• Rinse the crab again under cold water to remove any remaining debris.

What's the traditional Chinese method for cooking hairy crab?

The traditional Chinese method for cooking hairy crab is to steam it. The crab is typically steamed for about 15-20 minutes and then served with a mixture of vinegar and ginger. This method is preferred because it ensures that the delicate meat of the crab is cooked thoroughly without becoming overcooked or dry.

Are there any health benefits or concerns with eating hairy crab?

Hairy crab is a good source of protein and contains essential vitamins and minerals. However, it is important to note that hairy crab is high in cholesterol and should be eaten in moderation. Additionally, some people may be allergic to crab and should avoid eating it.