Stone crab claws are a delicacy to indulge in, however, like other seafood they have particular shelf lives that ensure their tastiness is maintained. Below is what you need to know about storing stone crabs so they don’t lose their quality and safety.
Fresh Stone Crab Claws
Once you purchase fresh stone crab claws, remember to place them in the refrigerator promptly. As outlined below:
Refrigerated: Fresh stone crab claws held in an icebox cannot go beyond 2 days. Leave them at 32°F-38°F for better freshness and put on ice or any other cold area of your refrigerator. At all times keep sealed containers while storing these things so that no chance exists where they may cross-contaminate from one foodstuff type to another.
Frozen: If you have fresh stone crab claws, freezing can be a nice way of preserving them for up to six months. In order to freeze properly make sure each claw is tightly wrapped with plastic wrap or foil before placing it into a heavy duty freezer bag which prevents freezer burn and saves their quality.
Precooked Stone Crab Claws
At most instances pre-cooking the legs of a stone crab increases their shelf life;
Refrigerated: For up to five days, pre-cooked stone crab legs can stay in the fridge and still remain fresh by sealing them tightly either by using a sealed bag or container as well. The temperature should also be kept between 32°F – 38°F just as above for the fresh ones.
Frozen: If precooked claws will not be consumed within some few days then one may opt for freezing instead. Pre cooked frozen stones can last up to six months if they are properly frozen hence one should wrap them well with plastic wraps or aluminum foils before placing into freezer bags.
Thawing Frozen Stone Crab Claws
The following guidelines must be observed when defrosting frozen stone crab claws safely:
Refrigerator Thawing: The best way to thaw them is slowly in the refrigerator. This will take approximately 12-24 hours depending on the number and size of claws. Put them in a bowl or on a plate to catch any liquid that might leak out while they are thawing.
Quick Thawing: You may consider cold water bath if you want them to defrost faster. Drop your wrapped claws into a bowl with cold water and change it every 30 minutes till it thaws out. Avoid hot water or microwaving as both impact texture and flavour of meat.
Knowing how long they last and proper storage methods for stone crab claws will ensure that you eat them at their peak freshness and flavor. Whether your claw is fresh or pre-cooked, putting it in the fridge or freezer correctly will help maintain its quality. Handle with care and thaw right to get the best out of this delicacy seafood dish tonight.