How to Perfectly Steam Yangcheng Lake Hairy Crabs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Q: What’s special about Yangcheng Lake hairy crabs?
A: Yangcheng Lake hairy crabs are renowned for their size and flavor, particularly the rich and creamy roe of the female crabs and the sweet meat of the males.

Q: How long should the crabs be steamed?
A: The crabs should be steamed for about 20 minutes, depending on their size, and then left to simmer for an additional 5 minutes after turning off the heat.

Q: Can I add other flavors to the crabs while steaming?
A: Yes, adding slices of ginger and a spoonful of scallion and ginger cooking wine can enhance the flavor. However, it’s best to keep seasonings minimal to enjoy the natural taste of the crabs.

Steamed Yangcheng Lake Hairy Crabs

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Notes

Ingredients:

• Yangcheng Lake hairy crabs: 2
• Fresh ginger: a few slices
• Tai Tai Le scallion and ginger cooking wine: 1 large spoonful
• Tai Tai Le fresh scallop sauce: 1 spoonful
• Garlic: a few cloves

Instructions:

1. Clean the Yangcheng Lake hairy crabs, remove the gills and apron, and place them in a steamer with a few slices of ginger.
2. Pour a large spoonful of Tai Tai Le scallion and ginger cooking wine over the crabs. Ensure there's slightly more water in the steamer for ample steam.
3. Cover the steamer, and once the water boils, steam for 20 minutes. Adjust the time based on the size of the crabs.
4. While the crabs are steaming, prepare the dipping sauce by finely chopping garlic and ginger.
5. Add Tai Tai Le fresh scallop sauce to the chopped garlic and ginger, and mix well.
6. After 20 minutes of steaming, turn off the heat and let the crabs sit in the steamer for another 5 minutes.
7. Remove the crabs and serve hot with the prepared sauce. Optionally, brush the crabs with oil for an added sheen.
8. Enjoy the crabs, starting with the female for its rich roe, followed by the male for its sweet meat.

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Nutrition:

• Calories: Moderate (mainly from the crabs)
• Protein: High (excellent source of marine protein)
• Fat: Low to moderate (natural fats from crab meat)
• Carbohydrates: Low (primarily from the sauce ingredients)
• Beneficial nutrients: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and selenium