Steamed King Crab Legs (Best Method)
1. Thaw the crab legs.
Place them in the refrigerator overnight. If you're short on time, run cold water over them for 20–30 minutes.
2. Fill a large pot.
Add 1–2 inches of water to the bottom of a large pot. You can add a few lemon slices if you'd like.
3. Insert a steamer basket or rack.
The crab legs should sit above the water, not in it.
4. Bring the water to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce slightly to maintain a strong steam.
5. Add the crab legs.
Place them in the steamer basket and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
6. Steam for 6–8 minutes.
Since king crab legs are almost always pre-cooked, you're only reheating them. If they were frozen, steam for 10–12 minutes.
7. Prepare the butter.
While they steam, melt 1 stick of butter. Add:
8. Serve immediately.
Use kitchen shears to cut the shell lengthwise and pull out the meat. Dip in the melted butter and enjoy.