Picking and eating crabs is an earthy, down-home way to enjoy these tasty crustaceans -- but crabs do not give up their treasures lightly. Picking crabmeat takes time, but it's pretty easy once you know some tricks and tips.
First get a large work space ready. Lay down newspaper because you're going to get messy. Sorry, but pickin' crabs ain't dainty. I recommend a bowl for your cooked crabs, a bowl for good shells -- use these for stocks and sauces -- a bowl for the pure meat, and a trashcan nearby.
Once you have this all set, turn on some music, grab a beer or a lemonade and get to pickin'.