The full, succulent flavor and delicate texture of freshly caught and cooked crabs bear little resemblance to the paler and often drier taste of frozen crab. Storing fresh or live crabs overnight helps retain some of that just-caught freshness when done correctly. Fresh crabs need only be placed in the coldest part of the refrigerator with a sealed bag of ice on top. Keeping fresh, live crabs overnight requires a little careful planning, but proper storage helps ensure the freshest taste and prevents dangerous bacteria from developing.
Step 1
Place your crabs into a ventilated container. Add just enough water to cover the bottom of the container without completely submerging the crabs.
Step 2
Place a clean, damp towel on top of the crabs. This can get tricky if they are alive and agitated, so it helps to have another person to help get the towel in the container while helping to corral any strays.
Step 3
Layer sealed plastic bags full of ice on top of the wet towel. Loose ice will melt and possibly drown live crabs.
Step 4
Put the lid on the container and place it in a cool spot out of the reach of curious pets or young children.