how long to boil seafood

The boiling time for seafood depends on the type and size of the seafood you are cooking. Here are some general guidelines:

• Shrimp: Small to medium-sized shrimp (peeled and deveined) take about 2-3 minutes to cook, while larger shrimp can take up to 5 minutes.

• Lobster: Boil a 1 1/2-pound lobster for about 15 minutes.

• Crab: Boil a whole crab for 10-20 minutes, depending on its size. For crab legs or claws, 3-5 minutes is usually sufficient.

• Mussels and clams: Steam them for 5-7 minutes until they open, or boil them for 3-5 minutes until their shells open.

• Octopus and squid: Simmer them for about 30-45 minutes until they are tender.

It's important not to overcook seafood, as this can make it tough and rubbery. Always keep an eye on the cooking process and use a timer if necessary.