Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the irresistible West West Soft Shell Crab Sandwich! This mouthwatering seafood delight is not just a meal; it's an experience that will transport you straight to the coast with every crispy bite. Imagine perfectly fried soft shell crabs, nestled between toasted buns and slathered with zesty tartar sauce, all topped with fresh greens for that extra crunch. Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or simply craving something extraordinary, this sandwich is sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delectable recipe that combines simplicity with gourmet flair—your friends and family won't be able to resist asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 soft shell crabs
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 buns
- 1/4 cup tartar sauce
- Leafy greens for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the soft shell crabs. Rinse them under cold water and gently pat them dry with paper towels. Ensure that the crabs are cleaned and ready for cooking.
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
- Coat each soft shell crab in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to cover all sides. Shake off any excess flour and set the crabs aside on a plate.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers, indicating that it is hot enough for frying.
- Carefully place the floured soft shell crabs into the hot oil, being cautious to avoid splatters. Fry the crabs for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, use tongs to remove the crabs from the skillet and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- While the crabs are draining, prepare the buns. Lightly toast the buns in the same skillet or in a toaster until they are golden brown and slightly crispy.
- To assemble the sandwich, spread a generous amount of tartar sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
- Place one crispy soft shell crab on top of the tartar sauce on each bun.
- Add a handful of leafy greens on top of the crab for freshness and crunch.
- Top with the other half of the bun to complete the sandwich.
- Serve the West West Soft Shell Crab Sandwich immediately, accompanied by your favorite side dishes or fries, and enjoy!
Tips
- Freshness is Key: Always use the freshest soft shell crabs you can find for the best flavor and texture. Look for crabs that are still alive or have been freshly cleaned.
- Perfectly Seasoned Flour: Don’t skip on the seasoning! The cayenne pepper adds a delightful kick, but feel free to adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the crabs. A good test is to drop a small piece of flour into the oil; if it sizzles immediately, you're ready to fry.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Fry the crabs in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy crabs instead of crispy ones.
- Toast the Buns: For an added layer of flavor and texture, don’t skip toasting the buns. It helps prevent them from getting soggy and adds a nice crunch.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings to the sandwich, such as sliced tomatoes, pickles, or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the sandwiches right after assembling them. This ensures the crabs remain crispy and the flavors are at their peak!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 447kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 55mg
