If you’re new to crabbing, you’re not alone—we were too. As Midwesterners, we had zero experience with blue crabs, but staying at Easthaven gave us front-row access to one of the Chesapeake Bay’s greatest treasures. With calm waters, easy crabbing spots, and the right tools on hand, it turned out to be one of our favorite vacation experiences.
Here’s a straightforward, no-stress guide to cooking and picking blue crabs for the very first time.
How to Cook Blue Crabs
What you’ll need
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Large pot with lid (we provide one at Easthaven)
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Water
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Old Bay seasoning
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Salt and pepper
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Optional: vinegar or beer for extra flavor
Step 1: Prepare the Pot
Fill your pot with enough water to cover the crabs and bring it to a rolling boil. Season generously with Old Bay, salt, and pepper. Adding a splash of vinegar or beer enhances the classic Chesapeake flavor.
Step 2: Add the Crabs
Carefully place the crabs into the boiling water. Avoid overcrowding—cook in batches if needed.
Step 3: Boil
Once the water returns to a boil, reduce heat slightly and cook for 15–20 minutes, until the crabs turn bright orange and the meat is opaque.
Step 4: Cool
Remove crabs and let them cool on a tray or in a bowl. An ice bath works well if you’re short on time.
How to Pick Blue Crabs
Step 1: Remove the Top Shell
Place the crab on its back and gently pry off the top shell. Discard the shell and remove the gills and inedible parts.
Step 2: Clean the Crab
Rinse briefly under cold water to remove any shell fragments.
Step 3: Extract the Meat
Use a crab pick or small fork to remove meat from the body, claws, and legs. Take your time—it’s part of the fun.
Step 4: Crack the Claws & Legs
Use a cracker or mallet for the claws. A fork works well for pulling meat from the legs.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Pile the meat on a plate, sprinkle with a little extra Old Bay, and enjoy fresh—or save it for crab cakes, pasta, or dips.
Helpful Tips for First-Time Crab Pickers
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Proper tools (crackers, picks, seafood scissors) make all the difference
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Don’t rush—crab picking is meant to be social and fun
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Adjust seasoning to your taste; Old Bay is classic, but not mandatory
Why Easthaven Makes Crabbing Easy
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Calm waters ideal for beginners
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Crab pot and tools provided
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Private dock for fishing and crabbing
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Waterfront setting perfect for outdoor meals
Crabbing isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. And there’s nothing better than cooking what you catch just steps from the water.
👉 Book your stay at Easthaven and try it all yourself.