Get ready to indulge in a culinary delight that will make your taste buds do the happy dance! Soft shell crabs are a seafood lover’s dream come true, and when prepared with the right techniques and flavors, they can be truly divine. Whether you’re a fan of spicy kick, rich butteriness, or zesty freshness, we’ve got 18 mouth-watering recipes to get your claws cracking!
From classic Po’ Boys to modern twists like tacos and sushi rolls, our collection of crispy soft shell crab recipes is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. With flavors ranging from garlic butter to spicy aioli, you’re bound to find a dish that makes your heart skip a beat.
Stay tuned for the full article, where we’ll dive into each recipe and share tips and tricks for making these delectable crustaceans shine!
Fried Soft Shell Crab with Spicy Aioli
Savor the flavors of the Lowcountry with this delectable recipe for fried soft shell crabs paired with a spicy aioli dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound soft shell crab, cleaned and patted dry
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Aioli (recipe below)
Spicy Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each crab in buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
4. Fry crabs for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately with Spicy Aioli.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Soft Shell Crab Po’ Boy Sandwich
Experience the Gulf Coast’s famous flavors with this mouthwatering Soft Shell Crab Po’ Boy Sandwich recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound soft shell crab, cleaned and patted dry
– 4 crusty po’ boy bread loaves (or regular sandwich bread)
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and remoulade sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a deep fryer or a large skillet with at least 3-4 inches of oil to 350°F.
2. Dredge the soft shell crab in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Fry the crab for 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Meanwhile, toast the po’ boy bread.
5. Assemble the sandwich by spreading mayonnaise on each bread half, then adding a fried crab piece, scallions, lemon juice, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Top with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and remoulade sauce (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Soft Shell Crab with Garlic Butter
Grilled Soft Shell Crab with Garlic Butter Recipe
Experience the sweet and savory flavors of soft shell crab grilled to perfection and served with a rich garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 soft shell crabs, cleaned and patted dry
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Season soft shell crabs with salt and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of the crabs with garlic butter mixture.
5. Place crabs on the grill, shell side down, for 3-4 minutes or until shells turn bright orange.
6. Flip crabs over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Tacos with Mango Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this refreshing twist on a classic dish, featuring succulent soft shell crabs and a sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 12 soft shell crab claws
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, cilantro, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add soft shell crab claws to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Cook tortillas according to package instructions.
5. Remove crab from marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Assemble tacos by placing cooked crab onto tortillas and topping with Mango Salsa.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tempura Soft Shell Crab with Dipping Sauce
Experience the authentic Japanese flavors of tempura soft shell crab with a tangy dipping sauce, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 soft shell crabs, cleaned and patted dry
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt.
2. Pour soda water into the mixture and stir until it forms a smooth batter.
3. Dip each soft shell crab into the batter, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the battered crabs for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Serve with tempura soft shell crab.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes frying time)
Soft Shell Crab Benedict with Hollandaise
Elevate your brunch game with this decadent twist on the classic Eggs Benedict. Soft shell crab adds a luxurious touch to this rich and creamy dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 soft shell crabs, steamed and halved
– 1 pound English muffins, toasted
– 1/2 cup Hollandaise sauce (recipe below)
– 4 poached eggs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Hollandaise Sauce:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
1. Toast the English muffins and keep warm.
2. Poach the eggs and set aside.
3. Assemble the Benedicts by placing a toasted muffin half on each plate, topping with a poached egg, and finishing with a piece of steamed soft shell crab.
4. Drizzle the Hollandaise sauce over the top and sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan-Seared Soft Shell Crab with Lemon Herb Sauce
Pan-Seared Soft Shell Crab with Lemon Herb Sauce Recipe
Elevate your seafood game with this succulent and flavorful dish, featuring tender soft shell crab paired with a zesty lemon herb sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 soft shell crabs (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to serve
Instructions:
1. Rinse the crabs under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Place the crabs in the skillet, shell side down. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until the shells are bright red.
4. Flip the crabs over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until they’re opaque white.
5. Remove the crabs from the skillet and set aside.
6. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, butter, parsley, salt, and pepper to create the lemon herb sauce.
7. Serve the pan-seared crab with the lemon herb sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Roll with Old Bay Mayo
Savor the flavors of the Chesapeake Bay with this mouthwatering soft shell crab roll, elevated by a tangy and creamy Old Bay Mayo.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 soft shell crabs, rinsed and patted dry
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 4 hamburger buns, toasted
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each soft shell crab into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Dredge crabs in melted butter, coating evenly.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add crabs and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, mix Old Bay seasoning with mayonnaise in a small bowl.
6. Assemble rolls by placing cooked crab onto toasted buns, then dolloping with Old Bay Mayo.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Soft Shell Crab Stir-Fry with Vegetables Recipe
Experience the delight of succulent soft shell crab paired with a medley of colorful vegetables in this quick and flavorful stir-fry recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound soft shell crabs, cleaned and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the broccoli and mushrooms; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, soft shell crabs, and soy sauce. Stir-fry until the crab is opaque and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Soft Shell Crab with Parmesan Crust
A twist on traditional soft shell crab, this recipe adds a crispy Parmesan crust for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
- 4-6 soft shell crabs, rinsed and patted dry
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Butter or cooking spray for greasing baking dish
Instructions:
- Precure the soft shell crabs by gently bending each one in half and removing the top shell.
- In a shallow dish, mix together flour, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge the prepared crab shells in the flour mixture, coating evenly.
- Place the coated crabs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Ceviche with Avocado
Elevate your ceviche game with this refreshing recipe that combines the sweetness of avocado with the tender soft shell crab.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound soft shell crabs, cleaned and cut into small pieces
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the crab pieces, avocado, lime juice, red onion, and garlic.
2. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to break up the avocado or crab.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook ceviche.
Soft Shell Crab Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
This refreshing summer salad combines the sweetness of soft shell crab with the tanginess of citrus, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound soft shell crabs, steamed and chopped
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced fresh orange segments
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons citrus vinaigrette (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Citrus Vinaigrette:
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell pepper, and chopped soft shell crab.
2. Drizzle citrus vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
3. Top with diced orange segments and crumbled feta cheese.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Sushi Rolls
Experience the decadence of succulent soft shell crab wrapped in a delicate sushi roll.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked and chilled soft shell crab meat
– 1/2 cup sushi rice
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the nori sheet into desired roll size.
3. Lay a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a small border at the top.
4. Place 1-2 tablespoons of soft shell crab meat in the center of the rice.
5. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil.
6. Roll the nori using a bamboo sushi mat or your hands to form a compact roll.
7. Slice into individual pieces.
Cooking Time:
– Prepare time: 15 minutes
– Cook time: N/A (sushi rice is cooked separately)
Soft Shell Crab Risotto with Saffron
Elevate your risotto game with this decadent dish featuring succulent soft shell crabs and the subtle warmth of saffron.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 pound soft shell crabs, cleaned and patted dry
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add onion; cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic; cook for an additional minute.
3. Add rice; cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. When rice is cooked, stir in saffron mixture and crabs. Cook until crabs are pink and tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Pasta with Garlic and Chili
A creamy and spicy twist on traditional pasta, this dish combines the sweetness of soft shell crabs with the bold flavors of garlic and chili.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb. soft shell crabs, rinsed and patted dry
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add chopped onion and sliced red bell pepper; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until tender.
4. Add soft shell crabs to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes and chili flakes; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and crab mixture; toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Sliders with Sriracha Mayo
Elevate your tailgating game or backyard bash with these mouthwatering soft shell crab sliders, topped with a spicy kick of Sriracha mayo.
Ingredients:
– 12 soft shell crabs
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small hamburger buns
– Sriracha mayo (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse the soft shell crabs and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Dredge each crab in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Grill the crabs for 2-3 minutes per side, or until lightly browned and cooked through.
6. Assemble the sliders by placing a grilled crab on each bun, topping with Sriracha mayo, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Chowder with Corn and Bacon
Soft Shell Crab Chowder with Corn and Bacon Recipe
A creamy and flavorful chowder that combines the sweetness of corn, smokiness of bacon, and succulence of soft shell crab.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb soft shell crabs, cleaned and cut into pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon.
2. Add the butter to the pot and melt. Add the onion and garlic; sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the crab pieces, corn kernels, flour, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the crab is cooked through.
6. Stir in the crispy bacon bits. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Dumplings with Ginger Soy Dip
Transform tender soft shell crabs into mouthwatering dumplings, served with a zesty ginger soy dip that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
For the dumplings:
– 1 pound soft shell crabs, cleaned and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
For the dip:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and white pepper.
3. Add the egg, mayonnaise, and scallions; mix until just combined.
4. Gently fold in the soft shell crab pieces.
5. Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, shape into dumplings (about 20-25).
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
8. Meanwhile, mix together soy sauce, ginger, sugar, vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using) in a small bowl.
9. Serve the dumplings with the warm ginger soy dip.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of soft shell crab! This article features 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of this seafood favorite. From classic dishes like Fried Soft Shell Crab with Spicy Aioli to more adventurous options like Soft Shell Crab Tacos with Mango Salsa, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for a crispy fried treat or a light and refreshing salad, these recipes will inspire your next culinary adventure.
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