Families encouraged to catch crabs for delicious meals in Aarhus, Denmark

Many families enjoy a day at the beach, catching crabs and then releasing them back into the water. However, Jakob Clausen, the director of P. Clausens Fiskehandel in Aarhus, believes this practice is both a waste and a missed culinary opportunity. Despite the common perception in Denmark that food is expensive, Clausen points out that catching crabs can provide a delightful meal at little to no cost.

Clausen encourages people to experiment with making crab bisque from the crabs they catch, emphasizing that this dish rivals the sophistication of dining experiences offered in restaurants. He notes that many people refrain from utilizing this natural resource out of unfamiliarity or concerns about harming the crabs. He insists that preparing them is relatively simple, and possessing the right tools, such as a sturdy knife or an axe, can make the process even easier.

He adds that there are no valid reasons not to try cooking crab bisque with children, highlighting the importance of tapping into the abundant resources available in nature. Nevertheless, Clausen advises against harvesting shellfish near harbors due to potential contamination and recommends seeking cleaner locations like swimming piers.

For those interested in trying crab bisque, Clausen provides a basic recipe involving cutting the crabs in half, sautéing them with vegetables, adding tomato paste, and simmering with water or wine to create a flavorful broth. The mixture is then strained, reduced, and finished with cream or coconut milk before serving with bread.