Instructions: Use a steamer or large pot with a rack and tight fitting lid. Pour water and/or beer into steamer and bring to a boil. Add crabs - a few at a time - and sprinkle each layer of crabs with seasonings. Steam crabs for 15 to 20 minutes.

PICKING THE CRAB MEAT: A little practice will enable you to remove the meat from the crabs with minimal difficulty. You will need a small, heavy, sharp kitchen knife and a mallet. Spread out the newspapers and start right in. Youll find the meat in the body sections where the legs attach to the body and in the claws.

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