Here's a unique and delicious recipe for South American King Crab Legs, blending vibrant flavors and simple techniques for a meal that celebrates the essence of the crab:
South American King Crab Legs with Chimichurri Sauce
Ingredients:
- 5 lb South American king crab legs, thawed (if frozen)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Sea salt, to taste
**For the Chimichurri Sauce:**
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce:**
- In a bowl, combine the finely chopped parsley, cilantro, garlic, and red chili.
- Add the olive oil, red wine vinegar, cumin, and lime juice. Mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
2. **Cook the King Crab Legs:**
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. If desired, you can also steam the crab legs in a steamer basket over simmering water.
- Add the crab legs and cook for about 5-7 minutes if boiling, or steam for about 6-8 minutes until they are heated through. If using frozen legs, adjust the time to 10-12 minutes.
3. **Prepare the Butter Sauce:**
- In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Stir in the lemon juice and a pinch of sea salt.
4. **Serve:**
- Remove the crab legs from the water and let them cool slightly. Crack them open to expose the meat.
- Arrange the crab legs on a platter and drizzle them with the melted butter sauce. Serve with a generous amount of chimichurri sauce on the side for dipping.
5. **Enjoy:**
- Pair with fresh bread or a light salad, and enjoy your succulent South American King Crab Legs!
This dish not only highlights the sweetness of the crab but also adds a refreshing and zesty element from the chimichurri. Perfect for a special occasion or a delightful seafood feast!