Steamed Blue Crabs with Old Bay (Maryland)

Old Bay Seasoning and blue crabs are both synonymous with the Chesapeake Bay region of Maryland, where the plentiful crustaceans gave rise to a seafood seasoning just for them. Maryland residents will tell you: the more spice mix, the better, and only use Jimmies (the meatier, male crabs). The simple recipe makes serving a crowd super easy; in under an hour you can get crackin'!

1 (12 oz) bottle lager-style beer
1 cup cider vinegar
½ cup seafood seasoning, such as Old Bay
12 live blue crabs, preferably males ("Jimmies")
1 Tbsp. sea salt

Set up a steamer for the crabs. The steamer insert should sit 2“ above the bottom of the pot so that the crabs do not touch the liquid beneath.

Add 1½ cups water, lager, vinegar and 2 Tbsp. seafood seasoning to the bottom of the pot. Whisk to combine and bring to a simmer.

Layer the crabs in the steamer insert, generously sprinkling the salt and remaining seafood seasoning on each layer of crabs.

Cover the pot and steam the crabs for 30 minutes. The cooked crabs should be a bright orange colour throughout with no trace of blue or green.

Makes 4 servings.