Description
A crispy fried soft shell crab served in a bun with fresh toppings and a flavorful sauce, offering a delicious seafood twist on the classic burger that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Soft Shell Crab
- 4 soft shell crabs, cleaned
Batter and Coating
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)
Burger Assembly
- 4 burger buns (brioche buns recommended)
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Pickles
- Mayonnaise or sauce of choice (spicy mayo suggested)
Instructions
- Prepare the coating mixture: In a bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika to create a seasoned flour coating for the crabs.
- Make the egg wash: In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk thoroughly to form an egg mixture for dipping.
- Coat the crabs: Dip each cleaned soft shell crab into the egg mixture to coat it evenly, then dredge it thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring a good layer of coating all around.
- Fry the crabs: Heat a sufficient amount of oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the coated crabs into the oil. Fry them until they turn crispy and golden brown on both sides, which should take around 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Toast the buns: Lightly toast the burger buns either in a dry pan or oven until just golden and warm to enhance flavor and texture.
- Assemble the burgers: Spread mayonnaise or preferred sauce on the bun base, then layer with lettuce leaves, a slice of tomato, pickles, and finally the crispy fried soft shell crab. Top with the other half of the bun.
- Serve immediately: Serve the soft shell crab burgers right away to enjoy the crispy texture and fresh ingredients at their best.
Notes
- Ensure soft shell crabs are properly cleaned before cooking to remove any grit and internal parts.
- Using brioche buns adds a rich, slightly sweet flavor that complements the crab.
- Adding a spicy mayonnaise or sriracha mayo can elevate the flavor with a nice kick.
- Make sure the oil is sufficiently hot before frying to achieve a crispy crust without absorbing excess oil.
- Serve immediately after assembling to keep the burger crispy and fresh.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
