Step 1. Gently twist and pull the tail to separate it from the head.
Step 2. Suck on the opening of the head.
Step 3. Separate the tail exoskeleton by applying pressure with your thumbs on the first two lines of the tail underside right by the opening. After it cracks, push the sides outward in both directions to completely separate.
Step 4. Now you’re ready to extract the tail meat. Once you crack open the tail exoskeleton, pinch the back end of the tail, and gently pull out the meat from the other end with a twisting motion.
Step 5. Devein the tail. Remove it by pressing your thumb down on one side of the vein and pushing it along the meat until removed.
Step 6. The larger crayfish, in particular, will also have meat in the claws. Pull the lower claw down and away with a twisting motion to get at the meat inside.
Step 7. Eat and repeat! You’ll get better with practice! If you need additional help, ask one of our friendly LA Crawfish staff and we’ll be happy to demonstrate!