Chinese Mitten Crab

Step 1

Scrub the 4 live crabs under cold water with a brush to remove mud, then rinse well. Pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2

Slice the 1-inch ginger into thin strips; cut the 2 scallions into 2-inch pieces. Place half the ginger and scallions in a steamer basket.

Step 3

Arrange the crabs on the steamer basket, top with remaining ginger and scallions. Bring water to a boil in a wok or pot, then steam the crabs over high heat until the shells turn bright orange, about 15 minutes.

Step 4

While crabs steam, make the dipping sauce: in a small bowl, mix the 3 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tsp sugar until the sugar dissolves.

Step 5

Carefully remove the hot crabs from the steamer using tongs. Serve immediately with the dipping sauce on the side.

Step 6

To eat, twist off the legs and claws, crack the shell, and enjoy the meat with the sauce.