Bring that inch of water to a rolling boil. Place the frozen crab legs in the steamer basket, cover the pot, and immediately lower the heat to medium. Let them steam for about 5 to 7 minutes for regular legs, or up to 10 minutes for colossal ones like the ones from the Red King Crab variety.
Steaming Frozen Crab Legs
You’ll know they’re ready when you see a whiff of that sweet, oceanic aroma escaping from the lid. It’s a smell that says, “You are about to eat like a millionaire, my friend.”
The Irresistible Trap
Here’s where my inner cynic kicks in: do not be tempted to lift the lid every thirty seconds to check on them. You are not a popcorn watcher. Each time you lift that lid, you let out the magic steam, and you add cooking time. Patience, grasshopper.
Meanwhile, melt a stick of good butter—salted, please. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and, if you’re feeling wild, a pinch of smoked paprika. This dipping sauce is the sidekick to your sensei-level crab legs.
