Soft Shell Crab Entrée

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Prep Time: 10min | Servings: 6 Servings

Handy Soft Shell Crabs are renowned for their sweet, delicate, and unique flavor. Fully cleaned and ready to cook, these crabs can be enjoyed whole—shell and all. This entrée features tempura-battered soft shell crabs, offering a crispy and flavorful main dish.

  • Handy Soft Crab (Jumbo or Prime) Thawed
  • Vegetable or Side

Tempura Batter (enough for 6-8 crabs)

  • 1 Cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 Cup + 3 TBSP Cold Tap Water
  • 1 Egg

  • Thaw the Crabs: If frozen, thaw the soft shell crabs and pat them dry with a paper towel.

  • Prepare the Batter: In a small bowl, combine the flour, cold water, and egg. Whisk together until smooth; do not over-mix.

Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat the Oil: Heat oil in a deep fryer or shallow sauté pan to 350°F.

  2. Dredge the Crabs: Lightly dredge each crab in flour, shaking off any excess.

  3. Batter the Crabs: Dip the floured crabs into the tempura batter, allowing excess to drip off.

  4. Fry the Crabs: Carefully place the battered crabs into the hot oil. Cook until golden brown and crispy, approximately 3–5 minutes, depending on the size of the crab.

  5. Drain the Crabs: Remove the crabs from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined tray for one minute to drain excess oil.

Assembly Instructions

  1. Plate the Crabs: Place the cooked soft shell crabs on a serving plate.

  2. Add the Side: Arrange your choice of vegetable or side alongside the crabs.

  3. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!