SOFT-SHELL CRAB BASKET

Soft-Shell Crab Basket image

Provided by Tyler Florence

Yield 1 to 2 servings

Number Of Ingredients 8

2 large soft-shell crabs
2 quarts vegetable oil for frying
2 cups buttermilk
Grated zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper
2 cups flour
1/4 cup Old Bay seasoning
Large pot for frying

Steps:

Start by cleaning the soft-shell crabs, removing the gills and the skirt flap. Refrigerate until ready to cook. On the stove, over medium heat slowly bring the vegetable oil to 325 degrees. Then lower the heat to hold the temperature. While the oil is heating prepare the buttermilk by mixing the grated lemon zest and season with salt and pepper. Combine Flour with Old Bay Seasoning. The correct way to batter using flour is a method known as dry-wet-dry, so start by coating the crabs with the flour seasoned with Old Bay then dredging them into the buttermilk and then back into the flour. Carefully using tongs drop the crabs into the oil and fry until crisp, when golden brown, remove from oil and drain on a paper towel. Serve the crabs in a basket with french-fries, coleslaw, grilled corn, tartar sauce, and lemon. Another delicious serving suggestion is a simple soft-shell sandwich. To make the sandwich place the fried crab in between 2 slices of lightly toasted white bread with lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise;