Time: 1 hour
Big Idea: Learn the roles blue crabs play in the bay while cooking up delicious crabs.
What You’ll Need:
· Water
· Vinegar
· 1 Dozen Blue Crabs
· ½ Cup Old Bay
Part 1: Cook the Crabs
1. Get a pot with raised racks and add water and vinegar (in equal parts) to fill right below the rack.
2. Layer crabs on the rack and sprinkle Old Bay seasoning on them. Cover and steam for 30 minutes on medium heat (crabs will turn red).
Part 2: What’s up with Blue Crabs?
1. Discuss the components of blue crabs. For each of the 5 body parts, do some additional research to find out its function.
2. Blue crabs are found in the waters surrounding our state, so it is easy enough to find a real crab to look at while studying!
Part 3: Eat and Enjoy
1. After the crabs have steamed, remove them and begin to pick. If you have never picked a crab before, look for a video online to remove the inedible portions.
2. There is meat inside of the legs and body of the crab, so be sure not to waste any!
Discussion Topics:
· What are crabs functions? Why are they important for the water ecosystem?
· Fresh crabs are sold throughout the state. What is the value of supporting local?
