A pot, some spices, and plenty of hot water and crabs should be all you need to get your next summer feast idea rolling.
Ever try a crab boil before? Even if you haven’t, let’s say that your curiosity has been piqued. A pot, some spices, and plenty of hot water and crabs should be all you need to get your next summer feast idea rolling. Let’s go through this beginner’s guide together.
Get the Crabs
Before you can do anything else, you’ll need two essential items: the crabs you plan on boiling and a large enough pot. Many different breeds of crabs exist, and it all comes down to what you want to eat. Dungeness crabs, pacific red crabs, and rock crabs are far more plentiful on the west coast, but blue crabs will probably be easier to get if you live in the area around Maryland. Get a mix of different crabs to keep things interesting, but be sure to balance out the main course with how many appetizers, sides, drinks, and desserts you plan to serve. All crabs must be kept chilled in your refrigerator until it’s time to cook them. One more thing: if you can’t find any crabs you like, then don’t hesitate to order a bushel or two directly from Costas Inn!
And Your Pot
The pot you use should be somewhere between 12 and 16 quarts. This is best for when you have a large party to feed. A smaller container, such as an 8 quart one can work, but that is ideally for a smaller group. Make sure you have baking sheets, cutting boards, and tongs at the ready!
Boil the Water
The next step is to boil the water, but be sure to season it along the way. There are many different seasonings you can try, and if you are on the water, then using clean seawater is a possibility, too! Depending on the types of crab you selected, you may notice that they will add some flavor to the water already – a notable briny sweetness. Hot sauce can also add another kick if you so desire.
YOUR SEAFOOD DESTINATION
Costas Inn has been a Baltimore tradition since 1971. You may recognize our restaurant, which was recently featured on the Food Network with Michael Symon on Burgers, Brew, and ‘Que! We were also voted the 2015 #1 Baltimore Seafood Restaurant by USA Today, as well as #1 Crab Restaurant 2014 in the Baltimore Business Journal. You may have also spotted Costas Inn during one of our 9 appearances on the Today Show or heard one of our many interviews on WJZ TV Channel 13 with Ron Matz and Marty Bass.
You can enjoy our famous crab cakes in-house or order them online for any time eating. We also provide some of the best seafood catering in the Baltimore area! You can also get your fill from Costas even when you’re not in our dining room: follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and YouTube!