Grilled Crab
Grilled Crab Recipe from Canada with Lemon, Garlic, and Butter
Introduction
Grilled crab is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for seafood lovers. The combination of succulent crab meat with garlic-lemon butter creates a mouthwatering experience that is sure to impress your guests. In this recipe, we will show you how to prepare and grill crab to perfection.
History
Grilled crab has been a popular dish for centuries, with variations of the recipe found in many different cultures around the world. The method of grilling crab with garlic-lemon butter is a classic way to enhance the natural flavors of the crab meat and create a delicious and savory dish.
Ingredients
- 1 kg pre-scored easy-snap crab, defrosted
Garlic-lemon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
- 125 g butter
- 25 ml fresh lemon juice
- 1 dash worcestershire sauce
- 1 pinch freshly ground black pepper
- 15 ml fresh herbs, chopped (e.g. thyme, chives or parsley)
How to prepare
- Melt the butter.
- Combine it with garlic, lemon juice, worcestershire sauce, and season with pepper to taste.
- Cook the mixture over low heat for 4-5 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in the herbs.
- Grill the crab, turning and basting it with the garlic-lemon butter for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until heated through.
Variations
- You can add a touch of spice to the garlic-lemon butter by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- For a different flavor profile, you can substitute the garlic-lemon butter with a spicy chili-lime butter.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to defrost the crab completely before grilling to ensure even cooking.
- Basting the crab with the garlic-lemon butter while grilling will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
- Be careful not to overcook the crab, as it can become tough and rubbery if cooked for too long.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled crab can be served with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and balanced meal.
Cooking Techniques
Grilling the crab over medium heat allows the meat to cook evenly and develop a nice charred flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder as a substitute.
- You can also use margarine or olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the garlic-lemon butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the grilled crab on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Grilled crab pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover grilled crab can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
- Each serving of grilled crab with garlic-lemon butter contains approximately 300 calories.
Carbohydrates
- Crab meat is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet.
Fats
- The garlic-lemon butter used in this recipe is high in fats, but can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Proteins
- Crab meat is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue.
Vitamins and minerals
Crab meat is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium, which are important for overall health and well-being.
Alergens
This recipe contains shellfish (crab) and dairy (butter), which may be allergens for some individuals.
Summary
Grilled crab is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It is a great option for those looking to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal.
Summary
Grilled crab with garlic-lemon butter is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for seafood lovers. With the right ingredients and cooking techniques, you can create a mouthwatering meal that is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Grilled Crab. It was on a warm summer day many years ago, when I was visiting a dear friend in the coastal town of Cape Cod. As soon as I stepped into her kitchen, I was greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of seafood sizzling on the grill.
My friend, Sarah, was a master chef when it came to cooking up fresh seafood dishes, and she had spent years perfecting her recipe for Grilled Crab. She had learned it from an old fisherman who frequented the local docks, sharing his secrets with anyone who was willing to listen.
As Sarah walked me through the steps of preparing the dish, I watched in awe as she expertly cracked open the crab shells and marinated the succulent meat in a mouthwatering blend of spices and herbs. The scent of garlic, lemon, and butter filled the air, making my stomach rumble in anticipation.
Once the crabs were ready, Sarah placed them on the grill, the flames licking at the delicate meat and infusing it with a smoky flavor that was simply irresistible. As we waited for them to cook, she regaled me with stories of her own culinary adventures and the many people she had met along the way.
When the crabs were finally done, we sat down at the table and dug in with gusto. The meat was tender and juicy, with just the right amount of char from the grill. The flavors of the marinade had seeped into every bite, creating a symphony of tastes that danced on my tongue.
As I savored each mouthful, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to learn this recipe from Sarah. It was a dish that spoke of tradition and history, passed down from one generation to the next. And now, it was a part of my own culinary repertoire, ready to be shared with my own family and friends.
Since that day, I have made Grilled Crab countless times, each batch a tribute to the memories of that summer afternoon in Cape Cod. I have added my own twists and variations to the recipe, experimenting with different spices and ingredients to create a dish that is uniquely my own.
But no matter how many times I make it, the taste of that first Grilled Crab will always hold a special place in my heart. It is a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past, to bring us together in joy and celebration.
And as I sit down to enjoy a steaming plate of Grilled Crab with my loved ones, I am filled with gratitude for the lessons I have learned and the memories I have made along the way. Food truly is a gift, one that we should savor and cherish with every bite.
Categories
| Canadian Appetizers | Canadian Recipes | Chives Recipes | Thyme Recipes |