How Do You Steam Crab Legs Without A Steamer

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Storables.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)

Introduction

Crab legs are a delicacy that many seafood lovers enjoy. They are known for their sweet and succulent meat, making them a popular choice for seafood enthusiasts. While steaming crab legs is the traditional method of cooking, not everyone has a steamer at home. However, this should not deter you from enjoying this delicious seafood. In this article, we will explore several alternative methods for steaming crab legs without a steamer. These methods are simple, effective, and can be done using common kitchen tools and equipment.

Before we dive into the different methods, it’s important to note that crab legs should always be cooked thoroughly to ensure they are safe to eat. Whether you are using a steamer or an alternative method, proper cooking times and temperatures are crucial to achieving perfectly tender and flavorful crab legs. Now, let’s explore the different ways you can steam crab legs without a steamer.

Method 1: Using a Large Pot with a Steamer Basket

If you don’t have a dedicated steamer, you can easily simulate one using a large pot and a steamer basket. Here’s how to do it:

1. Fill a large pot with about an inch of water. The pot should be large enough to accommodate the steamer basket without touching the water.
2. Place the steamer basket in the pot, making sure it sits above the water level.
3. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
4. Once the water is boiling, carefully place the crab legs in the steamer basket.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the crab legs for approximately 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and tender.

Steaming crab legs in a pot with a steamer basket allows the steam to circulate evenly around the crab legs, cooking them to perfection. This method retains the natural flavors and textures of the crab legs, resulting in tender and juicy meat.

Method 2: Using a Double Boiler

If you don’t have a steamer basket or a large pot, you can still steam crab legs using a double boiler setup. Here’s how:

1. Fill a medium-sized saucepan with about 2 inches of water.
2. Place a heat-proof bowl on top of the saucepan, ensuring that it fits snugly.
3. Bring the water in the saucepan to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
4. Arrange the crab legs in the heat-proof bowl, making sure they are not submerged in the water.
5. Cover the bowl with a lid or aluminum foil, creating a seal to trap the steam.
6. Steam the crab legs for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until they are fully heated and tender.

The double boiler method provides a gentle and indirect heat source, allowing the crab legs to steam without directly contacting the water. This helps preserve the delicate flavors and textures of the crab legs, resulting in a flavorful and succulent dish.

Method 3: Using Aluminum Foil and a Baking Sheet

Another simple and effective method for steaming crab legs without a steamer is by using aluminum foil and a baking sheet. Here’s how:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Take a large sheet of aluminum foil and fold it in half to create a double layer.
3. Place the crab legs on the aluminum foil, arranging them in a single layer.
4. Fold the aluminum foil over the crab legs, sealing the edges tightly to create a pouch.
5. Transfer the foil pouch onto a baking sheet.
6. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the crab legs for approximately 15-20 minutes.

Steaming crab legs with aluminum foil in the oven creates a steamy environment within the pouch, allowing the crab legs to cook gently and evenly. The result is tender and flavorful crab meat that is infused with its natural juices.

You can steam crab legs without a steamer by placing a metal colander or a heatproof bowl over a pot of boiling water. Place the crab legs inside the colander or bowl, cover with a lid, and steam for 5-7 minutes.

Method 4: Using a Microwave

Believe it or not, you can even steam crab legs using a microwave. Here’s a quick and convenient method:

1. Place the crab legs in a microwave-safe dish, arranging them in a single layer.
2. Add about 2 tablespoons of water to the dish to create steam.
3. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or use microwave-safe plastic wrap to seal it tightly.
4. Microwave the crab legs on high power for approximately 3-4 minutes per pound of crab legs.
5. Check the crab legs for doneness. They should be hot, fully cooked, and easily flake with a fork.

Steaming crab legs in the microwave is a convenient option when you’re short on time or don’t have access to traditional steaming methods. However, do keep in mind that microwaves may vary in power, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Method 5: Using a Grill

If you’re a fan of outdoor cooking, you can also steam crab legs on the grill. Here’s how:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Brush the crab legs with a bit of melted butter or olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Place the crab legs directly onto the grill grates.
4. Cover the grill and let the crab legs steam for approximately 8-10 minutes.
5. Flip the crab legs halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
6. Once the crab legs are heated through and the meat is tender, remove them from the grill.

Using a grill to steam crab legs adds a smoky and slightly charred flavor to the meat, enhancing its natural sweetness. This method is perfect for outdoor gatherings or when you want to enjoy a summery outdoor meal.

Conclusion

Steaming crab legs without a steamer is easier than you may think. With the alternative methods outlined in this article, you can enjoy perfectly cooked and flavorful crab legs using common kitchen tools. Whether you choose to use a large pot with a steamer basket, a double boiler, aluminum foil and a baking sheet, a microwave, or a grill, each method offers its own unique twist on steaming crab legs.

Remember, when cooking crab legs, it’s important to follow proper cooking times and temperatures to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat. The cooking times provided in each method may vary depending on the size and thickness of the crab legs, so it’s always a good idea to check for doneness by ensuring the meat is heated through and easily flakes with a fork.

So, the next time you’re craving some delicious crab legs but don’t have a steamer, don’t worry! Simply choose one of these alternative methods and enjoy a mouthwatering seafood feast right in the comfort of your own home.

Whether you’re using a pot with a steamer basket, a double boiler, aluminum foil and a baking sheet, a microwave, or a grill, you’ll be delighted with the results. Happy cooking!