By Dr. Leah Alexander | Published on August 9, 2023 | Last Updated on November 7, 2023
Copeland’s restaurant chain has been serving up delicious Cajun-style seafood dishes for over 40 years. From succulent crab cakes to spicy crawfish, the menu is full of mouthwatering options.
One of their signature dishes is Copeland’s hot crab claws recipe. This flavorful dish combines fresh crab claws with a unique Cajun seasoning and buttery sauce for an unforgettable meal.
Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this is sure to satisfy your cravings. Follow the step-by-step instructions below and get ready for a great taste!
In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about making hot crab claws at home. From the ingredients and equipment to the step-by-step instructions, you’ll be a seafood master in no time.
What are Copeland’s Hot Crab Claws?
Copeland’s hot crab claws is a classic Cajun-style dish that combines succulent crab claws with flavorful seasoning and buttery sauce.
This easy-to-make meal is perfect for lunch or dinner and can be served as an appetizer or main dish. The dish is made with fresh crab claws, garlic, parsley, scallions, Cajun seasoning, butter, chicken stock, and Italian dressing.
The ingredients are cooked together to create a flavorful sauce that coats the crab claws in every bite. The result is a savory and spicy dish that will have your taste buds singing!
What does it taste like?
Copeland’s hot crab claws is a flavorful and spicy seafood dish. The combination of fresh crab claws, garlic, parsley, scallions, Cajun seasoning, butter, chicken stock, and Italian dressing create a unique flavor that is bursting with seafood goodness.
The seasoning pairs perfectly with the crab claws to create an unforgettable meal. The buttery sauce adds richness to every bite while the Italian dressing adds a zesty flavor. The result is an incredibly flavorful dish that will have you coming back for more!
How did I first get introduced to Copeland’s Hot Crab Claws?
My first experience with Copeland’s Hot Crab Claws was an unforgettable one. It all started when I decided to visit Copeland’s restaurant chain here in my hometown.
Upon arriving at the restaurant, I immediately knew this was going to be a special evening. The atmosphere was inviting and cozy, with soothing music playing in the background, and the smell of delicious seafood in the air.
The waitstaff was incredibly friendly and helpful, and after looking over the menu they quickly recommended their signature dish – Copeland’s Hot Crab Claws. They promised it would not disappoint and I can confidently say that they were right!
When my order arrived at our table, I could hardly contain myself! The dish was served on a large platter with the crab claws arranged in a circular pattern. The sauce pooled around the plate and had an incredible aroma that filled the air.
I took my first bite of Copeland’s Hot Crab Claws and it was like nothing I’d ever tasted before. The seasoning blended perfectly with the crab claws, resulting in a great flavor. It was spicy, yet not overwhelming, and the buttery sauce added just the right amount of richness.
So I recreated this dish at home and I have to say it’s just as delicious. If you’re a seafood fan, then Copeland’s Hot Crab Claws is definitely worth trying!
How to make Copeland’s Hot Crab Claws?
Making Copeland’s Hot Crab Claws at home is easier than you might think. All you need to do is follow the simple steps outlined below and you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in no time!
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Ingredients
- Garlic: This herb adds a strong flavor to the dish and is packed with antioxidants.
- Parsley: this leafy green helps to add color and freshness to your meal.
- Scallions: these bring an onion-like flavor that works well in seafood dishes.
- Butter: adding butter will help keep the crab claws moist while they are cooking.
- Cajun seasoning: this blend of spices adds a unique flavor that will make your crab claws stand out.
- Fresh crab claws, crawfish tails, or shrimp: the main ingredient in this dish! Make sure to use fresh not frozen for best results.
- Chicken stock: helps to add moisture and flavor.
- Italian dressing: adds a zesty flavor that will complement the crab claws perfectly.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1
In a medium saucepan, heat one tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and parsley and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 2
Add the scallions, Cajun seasoning, crab claws (or other seafood), chicken stock, and Italian dressing. Stir until everything is combined and bring to a boil.
Step 3
Reduce the heat to low and simmer until the crab claws are cooked through about 10 minutes.
Step 4
Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best results.
- Avoid overcooking the crab claws, as they will become rubbery if cooked too long.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.
- Substitute other seafood such as shrimp or crawfish tails if desired.
- If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can create your own blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
- Add some vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to the dish if desired.
- Use high-quality olive oil when sautéing your garlic and vegetables.
Copeland’s Hot Crab Claws Recipe
Equipment
- Stirrer
Ingredients
- 1/2 ounce Italian dressing adding a tangy and herb-infused taste, bringing a zesty and refreshing element to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning infusing the dish with a bold and spicy flavor profile, adding a delightful kick and complexity to the dish.
- 1 1/2 ounces chicken stock providing a savory and flavorful base, adding moisture and richness to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon parsley chopped, adding a fresh and herbaceous note, bringing a vibrant green color and mild flavor to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon scallions chopped, providing a mild and onion-like taste, adding a subtle sharpness and texture to the dish.
- 3 ounces fresh crab claws crawfish tails, or shrimp, offering a delicate and seafood taste, adding a succulent and tender element to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic releasing its aromatic and savory essence, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- 1 tablespoon butter divided, lending a rich and creamy texture to the dish, enhancing the overall richness and depth of flavor.
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, heat one tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and parsley and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the scallions, Cajun seasoning, crab claws (or other seafood), chicken stock, and Italian dressing. Stir until everything is combined and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer until the crab claws are cooked through about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for the best results.
- Avoid overcooking the crab claws, as they will become rubbery if cooked too long.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.
- Substitute other seafood such as shrimp or crawfish tails if desired.
- If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can create your own blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper.
- Add some vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to the dish if desired.
- Use high-quality olive oil when sautéing your garlic and vegetables.
Nutrition Information
What to serve with Copeland’s Hot Crab Claws?
Copeland’s Hot Crab Claws is a delicious and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with many sides. To keep the meal light and healthy, consider serving it with some colorful vegetables such as steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or sautéed green beans.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for something more filling, why not try pairing your Hot Crab Claws with a bed of fluffy white rice or roasted potatoes? This will help to soak up the delicious sauce and add some extra substance to your meal.
And don’t forget about some fresh bread! A baguette or French loaf is always a great choice for dipping into the buttery sauce. Add a sprinkle of parsley for color and you have a delicious and complete meal that is sure to satisfy!
How to store leftover Copeland’s Hot Crab Claws?
If you have any leftovers from your Copeland’s Hot Crab Claws feast, don’t worry – they can be stored for later! To keep the crab claws at their best, make sure to store them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes. Be sure to add a bit of butter or olive oil to prevent the crab claws from sticking to the pan. This will help you get that same delicious flavor as when it was first made!
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, Copeland’s Hot Crab Claws is safe for pregnant women to eat. However, as with any seafood dish, it is important to ensure that the crab claws are cooked thoroughly before eating.
This will help prevent the risk of foodborne illness. Pregnant women should also be mindful of their sodium intake when consuming this dish, as it can be high in salt.
FAQs
How do I know if my crab claws are cooked through?
To test if your crab claws are fully cooked, insert a knife into the meat. If it comes out easily and with no pink color, then they are ready to eat!
What can I use instead of Cajun seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make your own blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper. This will give your crab claws a unique flavor that is sure to please!
Can I make this dish with other types of seafood?
Yes, you can substitute crab claws with other types of seafood such as shrimp or crawfish tails. You can also add additional vegetables to the dish if desired. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Wrapping Up
Thank you for reading my post on Copeland’s Hot Crab Claws! I hope that you found it helpful and that you’ll give this delicious dish a try. Whether you’re a seafood fan or just looking for something new, Copeland’s Hot Crab Claws is sure to hit the spot!
Please share this article with anyone who might be interested in cooking this tasty dish. Also, if you have any other questions about Copeland’s Hot Crab Claws or its ingredients, please feel free to leave a comment below and I’ll be sure to answer them.
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.
