Eastern Shore Soft Crabs

May 13, 2023May 13, 20230 1

Tasty Eastern Shore Soft Crabs

by The Chefin Seafood

Prep

20 min

Cook

10 min

Ready In

30 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

600

Sugar

Fat

32g

Eastern Shore Soft Crabs are a classic dish from the Chesapeake Bay region, popularized by the tradition of soft crabbing in the spring and early summer months. These crabs are unique in that they have shed their shells and are in the process of growing new ones, which makes them especially delicate and perfect for frying. The addition of salty bacon provides a savory complement to the crispy crab meat for a dish that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Instructions

1.	Clean the crabs by removing the mouth, gills, and apron. Rinse the crabs under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2.	Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, then remove and place on paper towels to cool. Reserve bacon grease in skillet.
3.	In a shallow dish, beat the eggs and set aside. In another shallow dish, add the pancake mix.
4.	Dip the crabs into the egg mixture, then coat in pancake mix, shaking off any excess flour.
5.	Heat the reserved bacon grease and vegetable oil in skillet over medium heat. Add the crabs and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pan and let drain on paper towels.
6.	Serve with crispy bacon on top and enjoy!

PROS

Soft shell crabs are a delectable treat with a unique texture and flavor.

The combination of salty bacon and crispy delicate crab meat is unmatched.

CONS

Soft shell crabs can be a bit expensive and may not be widely available in all areas.

They also contain higher levels of cholesterol and sodium compared to other seafood options.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While soft shell crabs may not be the healthiest seafood option due to their higher cholesterol content, they do provide a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids which are important for heart and brain health.
Egg and pancake mix contribute additional protein and chewing gum arabic in pancake mix may help lower cholesterol levels.

	4 soft shell blue crabs
	4 slices center-cut bacon
	2 eggs , beaten
	1 cup pancake mix
	2 tablespoons vegetable oil