Attaining Crab Nirvana

Whole steamed crabs make a Fourth of July gathering or any summer party or meal complete. Layer the crabs in a steamer and season each layer with Old Bay Seasoning, with its celery and mustard seed notes. Boil water, vinegar and flat beer to steam the crabs, for about 20 minutes or until the shells turn bright orange. Serve on picnic tables covered with brown paper along with butter and corn on the cob. Crab mallets ease removing the meat from the claws.