Can hairy crabs be steamed without washing

It is not recommended to steam hairy crabs without washing, as there may be a risk of sediment residue or bacterial contamination. The surface of hairy crabs is prone to sediment, algae, and microorganisms, and direct steaming may affect taste and food safety.

Hairy crabs live in freshwater environments and often have sediment and parasite eggs on their bodies, making it difficult to thoroughly clean them with simple rinsing. The crevices of crab shells are prone to hiding dirt, and although high-temperature steaming can kill some bacteria, it cannot remove physical impurities. Crab gills and abdominal folds need to be carefully cleaned to prevent contaminants from seeping into the crab meat during steaming. Poorly cleaned crabs may have a earthy odor after steaming, which can affect the eating experience. In rare cases, crabs raised in clean environments may have less surface pollution, but it is still recommended to clean them. Some merchants may carry out purification treatment in advance, but consumers cannot intuitively judge the cleanliness level. Crabs may carry pathogenic bacteria such as Vibrio parahaemolyticus on their surface, and steaming alone cannot completely eliminate the risk of toxins. Crab navel area is prone to accumulating corrupt substances, and direct steaming may cause harmful substances to dissolve into the soup. When dealing with hairy crabs, a soft bristled brush should be used to rinse with running water at least three times, with a focus on cleaning the crab claws, joints, and abdomen. Before steaming, soak in light salt water to promote sand spitting. After boiling, add crabs to ensure even heating. Paired with ginger vinegar juice, it can not only dispel cold but also help kill bacteria. For those with sensitive digestive systems, it is recommended to remove internal organs such as crab hearts and stomachs. When making a purchase, pay attention to the intact and undamaged luster of the crab shell, and the steamed fresh crab will have a firmer and sweeter flesh.