One of the great seafood treats

Dungeness crab is one of the great seafood treats. The meat is sweet, rich, and tender. Old Bay brings out the best in it. The seasoning is a classic for a reason. It adds salt, spice, and a touch of heat. The crab does the rest. Boil it, season it, and serve.

Use live crabs for the best flavor. Boil in water that tastes like the sea—British chef Rick Stein has even cooked his in seawater. Yes… that salty! Don’t skip the second sprinkle of Old Bay at the end. It adds an extra hit of flavor. Serve with melted butter, lemon wedges, and good bread.

Ingredients

• Dungeness crab (live)
• Old Bay seasoning
• Salt
• Water
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
• Melted butter, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Prep the pot. Fill a large pot with enough water to cover the crabs. Add salt (water should taste like the sea) and 2–3 tablespoons of Old Bay per gallon. Bring to a boil.
2. Add the crabs. Lower them in carefully. Cover and return to a boil.
3. Boil. 15–20 minutes, until the shells turn bright orange.
4. Drain and season. Remove the crabs and drain well. Sprinkle with more Old Bay while still hot.
5. Serve. Warm, with melted butter and lemon wedges.