Q: Can I use other types of crab for this recipe?
A: Yes, while “San Dian” crabs are ideal, you can use similar sized crabs, adjusting steaming time as needed.
Q: What can I substitute for the special sauce mentioned in the recipe?
A: If you don’t have the specific sauce, you can use a mix of soy sauce, rice wine, and a hint of sugar as a dipping sauce.
Q: How do I know when the crabs are perfectly cooked?
A: The crabs are done when their shell turns bright red, and the meat is opaque and slightly firm to the touch.
Steamed "San Dian" Crab with Ginger and Scallion
Notes
- "San Dian" Crabs, 8 pcs
- Ginger, sliced, 50g
- Scallion segments, 75g
- Cooking wine, as needed
- Special drunken marinade sauce, as needed (optional)
- Clean the "San Dian" crabs by cutting off the back with scissors and washing away any mud.
- Crack open the crab shells, remove the crab heart, gills, and stomach.
- Marinate the crabs with cooking wine to remove any fishy smell.
- Place sliced ginger and scallion segments at the bottom of a dish.
- Arrange the prepared crabs on top of the ginger and scallion.
- Add more ginger and scallion on top of the crabs for additional flavor and to further reduce any fishiness.
- Place the dish in a steamer with cold water at the bottom. Start steaming over high heat.
- Once the water boils, continue steaming for 20 minutes. Turn off the heat and let it sit for an additional 2 minutes.
- Remove the crabs. They should be fragrant and not fishy.
- Serve with the special drunken marinade sauce for dipping, if available.
- Crabs are a good source of lean protein.
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Contains essential minerals like zinc and selenium.
- Low in calories, making it a healthy seafood option.