Soft shell crab is a delicacy enjoyed by seafood lovers around the world. It's a light, crunchy treat that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It can be fried, steamed, boiled, or grilled and served with an array of different sauces and accompaniments. Plus, it's packed with essential vitamins and minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
These crabs are usually cooked and eaten whole, which can be intimidating for those who aren't sure how to eat them. Since soft shell crab has a unique flavor and texture, it's important to know how to properly prepare and cook them. So let's dive into how you can make the most out of soft shell crabs!
Preparing Soft Shell Crabs
Cooking soft-shell crab at home is not difficult, but there are some things to keep in mind while preparing it. Before you get started cooking your soft shell crabs, it's important to ensure they are properly prepared. Start by rinsing the crabs in cold water and then drying them off with paper towels; this will help them crisp up when cooking. Once this has been done, season the crab with salt and pepper or any other spices desired.
There are several ways to cook soft shell crabs, depending on your preference and available equipment. When ready to cook your soft shell crabs, consider these cooking methods:
Deep Frying
This is one of the most popular ways to enjoy soft-shell crabs, as it creates a crispy exterior while keeping all the juices intact on the inside. Deep frying gives the crabs a crispy golden brown exterior and succulent interior when done correctly. To fry soft shell crabs, simply dust them lightly with flour or cornstarch before submerging them in hot oil for about 4 minutes until they turn golden brown in color. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
Steaming
If you're looking for something lighter than frying your soft-shell crabs but still want a delicious taste experience, then try steaming them instead! Fill a pot with about two inches of water, then place your seasoned crabs into a steamer basket lining it up evenly over top of boiling water. Allow to steam for 5-7 minutes before serving warm alongside some lemon wedges and melted butter!
Boiling
Boiling is another excellent way to prepare soft shell crabs if you're looking for something quick and easy! Place your crabs into a large pot filled with salted water (or seafood stock), then bring to a boil over high heat. Boil for 4-5 minutes before removing them from the heat source so they don't overcook. Serve warm with some tartar sauce or melted butter for added flavor!
Storing Soft Shell Crab
If you'd like to keep your soft shell crabs longer than a few days, freezing them is an option. To do this, place your cleaned and dried crabs on a cookie sheet lined with wax paper and put them in the freezer for about an hour; after they have frozen solid, transfer them into an airtight container or zip-top bag for storage for up to three months. However, if you plan on eating your crabs within a few days of purchasing them, keep them refrigerated until ready for consumption.
Final Thoughts
Soft shell crabs are truly a delicacy that can be enjoyed year-round with proper storage techniques! Whether eating out or cooking at home, these delicious crustaceans can make any meal special with their unique flavor profile that can only be found in soft-shell crab cuisine! With this guide, you now know how to properly cook and store soft-shell crab, so don't hesitate – to enjoy those little critters today!← Older post Newer post →