Discover How to Make Chile and Garlic Dungeness Crab with Garlic Noodles

Celebrate Thanksgiving with a Delicious Twist

Every geographical region in the U.S. boasts its unique Thanksgiving traditions, wherein food plays a pivotal role. Coastal areas, in particular, have a penchant for seafood dishes during the holiday season. One standout ingredient that redefines the Thanksgiving dinner experience is the Dungeness Crab, which is synonymous with November celebrations in the Pacific Northwest. If you haven't yet tried incorporating Dungeness Crab into your holiday spread, now is the perfect opportunity to explore a recipe that hails from this culinary tradition.

Cooking Up Chile and Garlic Dungeness Crab with Garlic Noodles

Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? This dish combines the rich, buttery flavors of Dungeness Crab infused with garlic and complemented by savory garlic noodles. It's not just a seafood feast; it’s an experience that evokes warmth and joy, perfect for family gatherings. Here’s how to prepare this delicious meal at home.

Essential Ingredients

For the crab, you will need:

• 16 Tbsp. unsalted butter
• ½ cup virgin olive oil
• 15 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 2 medium shallots, finely chopped
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp. crushed red chili flakes
• ½ tsp. black pepper
• ½ tsp. kosher salt
• 2 Dungeness crabs (1½–2 lbs each), steamed and cleaned
• ½ cup coarsely chopped parsley

For the garlic noodles, gather:

• 20 ounces fresh ramen noodles (or dried spaghetti)
• 5 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 3 tbsp. unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp. fish sauce
• 1 tbsp. oyster sauce
• 1 tsp. sugar
• ½ tsp. coarsely ground black pepper
• ¼ cup chives or scallions, thinly sliced

Steps to Perfectly Cooked Crab

This dish starts with the star of the show—the crab. If you are working with frozen Dungeness crabs, make sure they are thoroughly defrosted before cooking. Prepare a large pot with about 2 inches of water and add a tablespoon of salt for flavor. Keep your steaming rack just above the water level to ensure perfect steam circulation. Boil the water, reduce the heat to a simmer, and steam the crabs for 12-20 minutes until their shells turn a bright orange. Once cooked, cool the crabs, crack the shells, and prepare them for the buttery transformation ahead.

A Garlic Lover's Dream: The Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 450°F. In an ovenproof skillet or a Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic, shallots, and onions until they are soft and aromatic. Carefully fold in the steamed crabs, ensuring they are well-coated with the garlicky mixture. The real magic happens next: transfer this skillet to the oven for about 15 minutes to let the crab soak up all the flavors while the garlic begins to caramelize, creating an irresistible aroma that will have everyone at the dinner table salivating.

Completing the Dish with Garlic Noodles

While your crab is finishing in the oven, you can prepare the garlic noodles. Boil the noodles until al dente, reserving some of the cooking water. In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Then, combine the fish and oyster sauce, sugar, and the reserved noodle water to create a rich, flavorful base. Toss in the cooked noodles, mixing thoroughly to ensure each strand is coated in that delicious garlic goodness.

Perfect Pairing for Family Gatherings

When plating your beautifully prepared Chile and Garlic Dungeness Crab alongside the garlic noodles, consider garnishing with fresh scallions or a drizzle of lemon for an added zing. This mix of flavors not only offers a new culinary experience but also represents the communal act of sharing food—bringing family and friends together during the holidays.

Why You Should Try This Recipe for Thanksgiving

This dish not only showcases the delightful flavors of the Dungeness Crab but also honors the traditions of the Pacific Northwest. It’s a perfect blend of Thanksgiving warmth wrapped in a garlicky delight—one that’s guaranteed to please even the pickiest of eaters.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare for a celebration of flavors that bridges tradition and innovation on your Thanksgiving table!