Slathered with spicy mayo, this decadent soft-shell crab sandwich is the best way to celebrate the season.
This decadent soft-shell crab sandwich is the best way to celebrate this specialcrab season.
It wouldnt be a Southern sandwich withoutmayonnaise, but we dont just lay it on without a little doctoring.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
The only (possibly) difficult part is preparing the crabs.
We recommend buying them freshly cleaned and cooking them within two hours of purchase.
What Are Soft-Shell Crabs?
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You might wonder about the difference between crabs and soft-shell crabs.
Soft-shell crabs are crabs that have molted their hard exoskeleton, leaving only a soft-flexible shell behind.
During this time, the crab is able to grow, but remains vulnerable.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
This typically happens in warmer months.
Soft-shell crabs are considered a delicacy, and are often fried, grilled, sauteed or baked.
Refrigerate leftover crabs in an airtight container for up to two days for optimal freshness.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Assemble the sandwich(es) fresh before serving.
total), cleaned
1/2cupmayonnaise
1/4cupchopped pepperoncini(from 1 [12-oz.]
jar), plus1Tbsp.pickling liquidfrom jar
1Tbsp.chopped fresh chives
1Tbsp.choppedfresh dill
1cupfineyellow cornmeal
1/2cup(about 2 1/8 oz.
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)all-purpose flour
1/2cupcanola oil
4brioche burger buns, split
1cupshreddediceberg lettuce
1medium-size(10 oz.
Add crabs, and turn to coat; let stand in buttermilk mixture until ready to use.
Coat crab in cornmeal mixture
Heat oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high until shimmering.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Remove 1 crab from buttermilk mixture, letting excess drip off.
Transfer to cornmeal mixture; turn to fully coat.
Cook crabs:
Gently place in hot oil.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Repeat process with remaining crabs.
Cook crabs until golden and crispy, 6 to 8 minutes, turning once halfway through cook time.
Transfer crabs to a paper-towel lined baking sheet.
Sprinkle evenly with remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Replace top bun halves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yesyou can eat the whole soft shell crab sandwich in its entirety.
Crab fat, or crab mustard, is a yellow substance located in the body of the crab.
It has a creamy texture and briny flavor, and is considered a delicacy.
