Crab is delicious and offers omega-3 fatty acids that can improve cholesterol and heart health. However, eating this popular seafood item at a restaurant can intimidate people because it requires some hands-on dismantling. Here are a few tips for digging into this crustacean without hesitation.

3 Tips for Eating Crab

1. Break the Body in Half 

Once the crab is cooked and cool enough to touch, place a hand on each side of the body and break it in half. Many varieties will split under force, but some larger types require the assistance of a cleaver or knife to start a split before you can halve the body by hand.

If you’re struggling to open the body, insert a knife tip near the head of the crab on the underside of the belly, and use the blade to pry it open.

2. Remove the Legs and Claws

Next, wrap your fingers around a leg and slowly twist while pulling the leg away from the body. This method usually works for smaller crabs, but you may need a nutcracker or hammer to sever the bases on larger, hardier varieties. Repeat until you’ve removed all the legs. 

3. Take Out the Meat

Use a small fork or pick to reach into the open ends of the crab shell and pull out the meat. Some people empty the entire crustacean before digging in, while others prefer to eat as they go. Dip the meat in butter for an extra rich taste!

If you want to crack open a delicious crab, visit Cajun King in Aiea, HI. The locally owned family restaurant in the Waimalu Shopping Center offers a menu of Cajun dishes prepared with local flavors. Call (808) 484-2221 to make a reservation, or visit the website for information on their offerings, from oysters and snow crab legs to chicken wings and shrimp.