Hairy crabs are a jewel of Chinese food culture, but keeping them fresh and vibrant is an art. Don't worry! In this article, I'm going to share with you some simple and practical ways to keep your hairy crabs alive. Let's take a look at how to keep hairy crabs in the best condition!
Step 1: Choose fresh hairy crab (recommended: 5 minutes)
The first step in preserving hairy crabs is to choose fresh raw materials. Here are a few things to keep in mind when purchasing:
- Energetic: Choose hairy crabs with strong limbs and flexible claws, which are usually delicious.
- Shell intact: The shell is intact and has no rot or cracks.
- Moderate weight: Choose hairy crabs with a moderate weight, which will taste better.
Step 2: Temporary storage of hairy crabs (recommended: 10 minutes)
When you buy hairy crabs that are not ready to eat, you can temporarily store them in the following ways:
1. Prepare a plastic basket or gauze bag with holes.
2. Place the hairy crab in a basket or bag and wrap it in damp gauze to make sure the shell is moist.
3. Place in a ventilated, cool place away from direct sunlight.
Step 3: Refrigerate and preserve hairy crabs (recommended: 15 minutes)
If you plan to keep hairy crabs for a long time, refrigeration is the best way to go. Here are the steps:
1. Prepare a clean container, preferably a clear plastic box with a lid.
2. Place a layer of damp newspaper at the bottom of the container and place the hairy crabs on top of them one after the other. The crab legs are facing upwards and the claws are crossed.
3. Add a small dish of water to the box and do not submerge the hairy crabs.
4. Gently close the lid and place the container in the refrigerator freezer. The temperature is controlled between 0-4 degrees Celsius.
Step 4: Pre-cooking (recommended: 5 minutes)
When you're ready to cook hairy crabs, there are a few ways to keep them fresh and vibrant:
1. Cleaning the shell: Rinse the shell of the hairy crab with water to remove sediment and impurities. Do not wash with soap or dish soap.
2. Check the crab condition: Before cooking, carefully check the physical condition of each hairy crab. If there is any smell or abnormality, dispose of it immediately.
Epilogue:
Now, you know the tricks on how to save hairy crabs. By following these simple steps, you can easily keep your hairy crabs fresh and vibrant. Whether it's a family dinner or a gathering of friends, you can taste the perfect hairy crab delicacy! Come and try it, the deliciousness of hairy crab is waiting for you!