Description
A delicious and crispy soft shell crab burger featuring lightly fried soft shell crabs served in toasted buns with fresh lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a flavorful mayonnaise or sauce. This recipe offers a delightful seafood twist on the classic burger, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Crab and Coating
- 4 soft shell crabs, cleaned
- 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 (about 2 cups, enough for shallow frying)
Burger Assembly
- 4 burger buns (brioche recommended for extra richness)
- Lettuce leaves, washed
- 1 tomato, sliced
- Pickles, sliced
- Mayonnaise or sauce of choice (spicy mayo optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Coating Mix: In a bowl, combine 1 cup flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 egg and 1/2 cup milk until smooth and combined.
- Coat the Crabs: Dip each cleaned soft shell crab first into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated, then dredge thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Fry the Crabs: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot. Carefully place the coated crabs into the oil and fry for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the exterior is crispy and golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the burger buns until golden and slightly crisp, either in a toaster or on a dry skillet.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread mayonnaise or your preferred sauce on the bun. Layer with lettuce leaves, a slice of tomato, pickles, and the fried soft shell crab. Cap with the top bun.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the burgers hot for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Make sure the soft shell crabs are thoroughly cleaned before cooking to avoid any grit or impurities.
- Using brioche buns adds a rich, slightly sweet flavor that complements the crab well.
- Try adding spicy mayo or a flavored aioli to enhance the burger’s taste with some heat.
- Serve immediately after assembling for optimal crispness of the crab.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
