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Butter Garlic Crab

Buttery Garlic Crab This Quick Dish Will Thrill Your Senses

This Butter Garlic Crab recipe is a quick and easy dinner that impresses with rich flavors and simplicity.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Seafood
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crab
  • 2-2.5 lbs Dungeness Crabs Ensure crabs are pre-cooked for best results.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter Stick to high-quality butter for optimal taste.
  • 10-12 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is preferred for robust flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Dry White Wine Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio recommended; substitute with broth if needed.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Use fresh herbs for best flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Use fresh herbs for best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Use freshly squeezed for maximum flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Essential for enhancing flavor complexity.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Can omit for a milder dish.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Optional for added complexity.
  • Salt Season to taste.
  • Pepper Season to taste.
For Serving
  • Lemon Wedges Adds freshness when serving.
  • Crusty Bread Optional, perfect for soaking up the delicious butter garlic sauce.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Cutting Board
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Butter Garlic Crab
  1. Start by ensuring your Dungeness crabs are cleaned and cracked if using whole crabs. Rinse them under cold water to remove any debris.
  2. In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to bubble gently, creating a frothy layer on top, which should take approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until the garlic turns a light golden color and becomes fragrant.
  4. Pour in 1/2 cup of dry white wine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to gently bubble for about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Stir in the remaining butter, chopped parsley, cilantro, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld deliciously.
  7. Gently introduce the cleaned and cracked crab pieces into the skillet, ensuring they are well-distributed in the sauce. Stir carefully.
  8. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for another 5-7 minutes to allow the crab to soak in all that flavorful goodness.
  9. Once everything is heated through and well coated, transfer your Butter Garlic Crab to a serving platter. Garnish with additional chopped herbs for a pop of color and freshness.

Notes

Use fresh Dungeness crabs for the best flavor and texture. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.