Indulge in the sweet, tender flavor of soft-shell crabs with these 18 mouth-watering recipe ideas. From classic fried delights to innovative sushi rolls and tacos, we’ve got you covered for a seafood lover’s dream come true. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, our collection of soft-shell crab recipes will inspire you to get cooking and treat your taste buds to a shell-abulous experience.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of soft-shell crabs and explore a diverse range of dishes that showcase their versatility and deliciousness. From comfort food favorites like po’ boys and chowders, to international flavors like tempura and sushi, we’ll take you on a culinary journey that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Soft Shell Crab Tacos with Avocado Lime Sauce
Experience the flavors of Baja Mexico with this refreshing twist on traditional tacos. Crispy soft shell crab, crunchy slaw, and a zesty avocado lime sauce come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound soft shell crabs
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Slaw mixture (cabbage, carrots, and cilantro)
– Avocado Lime Sauce (recipe below)
Avocado Lime Sauce:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the soft shell crabs by rinsing and patting dry.
2. Dredge in panko breadcrumbs mixed with mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Fry in hot oil until crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping in foil and heating for a few minutes.
5. Assemble tacos with fried crab, slaw mixture, and Avocado Lime Sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Soft Shell Crab with Spicy Remoulade
Fried Soft Shell Crab with Spicy Remoulade: A flavorful twist on a classic dish that combines the tender sweetness of soft shell crab with the spicy kick of remoulade sauce. This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers and those looking to spice up their meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 soft shell crabs, rinsed and patted dry
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Remoulade Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each soft shell crab in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry crabs for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain crabs on paper towels.
Spicy Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Serve with fried soft shell crabs.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Po’ Boy Sandwich
Experience the flavors of New Orleans with this mouthwatering Soft Shell Crab Po’ Boy Sandwich recipe. Crispy fried soft shell crabs are piled high on a crusty baguette, topped with creamy remoulade sauce and crunchy lettuce.
Ingredients:
– 4 soft shell crabs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 4 baguette slices
– Remoulade sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip each soft shell crab in buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry crabs in hot oil until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing a fried crab on each baguette slice, topping with remoulade sauce and lettuce leaves.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Soft Shell Crab with Garlic Butter
This recipe takes the humble soft shell crab to new heights by grilling it and serving it with a rich garlic butter sauce. The result is a tender, flavorful crustacean dish that’s perfect for any seafood lover.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 soft shell crabs
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Rinse crabs under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the crab shells.
5. Place crabs on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they turn bright orange.
6. Serve immediately with additional garlic butter sauce if desired. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Tempura with Dipping Sauce
This Japanese-inspired dish combines the delicacy of soft shell crab with the crispy goodness of tempura, served with a tangy dipping sauce. A perfect treat for seafood lovers!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 soft shell crabs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping sauce ingredients (see below)
Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, and soda water to create the tempura batter.
2. Pat dry the soft shell crabs with paper towels.
3. Dip each crab into the batter, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Fry the battered crabs in hot vegetable oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Drain excess oil and serve immediately with dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Sushi Rolls
Experience the unique combination of crispy soft shell crab and creamy sushi rice in a single bite with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb soft shell crabs, cleaned and patted dry
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably Koshihikari)
– 1/4 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup avocado slices
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Rice vinegar
– Sugar
– Salt
– Sesame seeds and soy sauce for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare sushi rice according to package instructions or using the “sushi rice” method.
2. Cut soft shell crab into bite-sized pieces, making sure to remove any excess membrane.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place a few pieces of soft shell crab in the middle of the rice, followed by cucumber and avocado slices.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
6. Slice into 8 equal pieces and serve with soy sauce and sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Pan-Seared Soft Shell Crab with Lemon Herb Sauce
Experience the sweet and tender flavor of soft shell crabs paired with a bright and citrusy lemon herb sauce, all in one quick and easy dish. This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers looking to add some excitement to their meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 4 soft shell crabs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the soft shell crabs under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Pan-sear the soft shell crabs for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
4. Remove the crabs from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the lemon juice, white wine (if using), garlic, and parsley. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer the sauce over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly reduced.
7. Serve the pan-seared soft shell crabs with the warm lemon herb sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Benedict with Hollandaise
Elevate your brunch game with this decadent twist on the classic Eggs Benedict. Soft shell crabs add a sweet and tender touch to this indulgent dish, while the creamy hollandaise sauce brings everything together.
Ingredients:
– 4 soft shell crabs
– 1/2 cup hollandaise sauce (see recipe below)
– 4 English muffins, toasted
– 4 eggs, poached
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Hollandaise Sauce:
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 cup egg yolks
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and cayenne pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pan-fry the soft shell crabs until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Toast the English muffins and poach the eggs.
4. Assemble the dish by placing a toasted English muffin half on each plate, topping with a poached egg, a fried soft shell crab, and spooning hollandaise sauce over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Ceviche with Mango Salsa
Experience the harmonious balance of fresh flavors in this refreshing seafood dish. Soft shell crabs marinated in a zesty mixture of lime juice, mixed with sweet and tangy mango salsa, make for a truly delightful appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 soft shell crabs, cleaned and patted dry
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
– Tortilla chips or toasted baguette slices for serving
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, combine lime juice, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Add the soft shell crabs and marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the Mango Salsa by combining all ingredients in a bowl and mixing well.
4. To serve, place a few pieces of marinated soft shell crab on a plate or tortilla chip, then spoon Mango Salsa over the top.
5. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (marinating time)
Soft Shell Crab Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Get ready to savor the sweetness of soft shell crabs paired with crunchy vegetables in this savory stir-fry recipe. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 soft shell crabs, rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers and snow peas; cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add soft shell crabs; stir-fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Season with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Risotto with Parmesan
This creamy risotto dish combines the flavors of the ocean with the richness of Parmesan cheese, making it a perfect meal for any seafood lover. With its tender soft shell crab and flavorful Arborio rice, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 pound soft shell crabs, cleaned and patted dry
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
5. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the rice mixture and stir until absorbed.
6. Repeat step 5 until all broth is used, stirring frequently.
7. Add the soft shell crabs and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cooked through.
8. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
9. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Cakes with Tartar Sauce
Soft Shell Crab Cakes with Tartar Sauce Recipe
Enjoy the sweet taste of the ocean with this simple and delicious recipe for Soft Shell Crab Cakes, paired with a creamy and tangy Tartar Sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound soft shell crabs, cleaned and patted dry
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Tartar Sauce (recipe below)
Soft Shell Crab Cakes:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each soft shell crab into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place crabs on a plate or tray.
5. Drizzle melted butter over crabs.
6. Lightly beat egg in a small bowl and brush the top of each crab with the egg wash.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Tartar Sauce:
1. Mix together mayonnaise, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Soft Shell Crab Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
A flavorful and light pasta dish featuring succulent soft shell crabs, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a hint of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 soft shell crabs, cleaned and patted dry
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add soft shell crabs to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tbsp butter. Toss in cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they release their juices and start to soften.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing with tomato mixture and reserved pasta water as needed to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with soft shell crabs and chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
Enjoy a refreshing twist on traditional salads with this recipe featuring tender soft shell crabs, crisp greens, and zesty citrus vinaigrette. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 soft shell crab claws
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup citrus vinaigrette (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Rinse soft shell crab claws under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Gently remove the top shell from each claw, leaving the tender flesh intact.
4. Arrange the crab claws on top of the salad mixture.
5. Drizzle citrus vinaigrette over the salad and sprinkle with feta cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Citrus Vinaigrette:
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl, whisk until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None (all ingredients are ready-to-use or cooked separately)
Soft Shell Crab Sandwich with Sriracha Mayo
Soft Shell Crab Sandwich with Sriracha Mayo Recipe
This mouthwatering sandwich combines the tender sweetness of soft shell crab with the spicy kick of sriracha mayo, all wrapped up in a crispy baguette. Perfect for seafood lovers and adventurous eaters!
Ingredients:
– 4 soft shell crabs
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Sriracha mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Rinse crabs under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a shallow dish, mix panko breadcrumbs, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each crab in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place crabs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Assemble sandwiches by spreading sriracha mayonnaise on the bun, topping with baked crab, lettuce, tomato, and pickles (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Fritters with Sweet Chili Sauce
Experience the delightful combination of crispy fritters and spicy sauce in this easy-to-make recipe. Soft shell crab fritters are a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup soft shell crab pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet Chili Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together flour, cornstarch, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add crab pieces, egg, and panko breadcrumbs to the bowl; gently fold until combined.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the crab mixture into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
5. Fry fritters for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown; drain on paper towels.
6. Serve warm with Sweet Chili Sauce.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes (including frying time)
Soft Shell Crab Chowder with Corn and Bacon
This creamy chowder is a flavorful twist on traditional seafood soups, featuring tender soft shell crab, sweet corn, and crispy bacon. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound soft shell crabs, cleaned and cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup fish stock (or chicken stock)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon.
2. Add butter to the pot and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add crab pieces and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in corn, heavy cream, fish stock, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Soft Shell Crab Spring Rolls with Peanut Dipping Sauce
Experience the fusion of Asian flavors and American delicacies with these crispy spring rolls filled with tender soft shell crab. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, they pair well with a creamy peanut dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 4-6 soft shell crabs, steamed and broken into pieces
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Peanut Dipping Sauce:
+ 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
+ 1/4 cup soy sauce
+ 1 tablespoon honey
+ 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together crab pieces, scallions, carrot, garlic, and soy sauce.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture in the center.
3. Fold the bottom half up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
4. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok. Fry spring rolls until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels.
5. For the Peanut Dipping Sauce, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and lime juice until smooth. Serve with fried spring rolls.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes to prepare the crab filling and assemble the spring rolls. Frying time is approximately 6-8 minutes.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary delight! This article presents 18 mouth-watering soft shell crab recipes that are perfect for seafood lovers. From classic dishes like Po’ Boy Sandwich and Fried Soft Shell Crab with Spicy Remoulade, to innovative creations like Soft Shell Crab Sushi Rolls and Soft Shell Crab Risotto with Parmesan, there’s something for everyone. Whether you prefer it grilled, pan-seared, or deep-fried, these recipes will guide you in preparing the perfect soft shell crab dish. So go ahead, get cooking, and treat your taste buds to a seafood extravaganza!
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