Best 3 Soft Shelled Crabs Meunière Recipes

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Soft-shelled crabs are a unique and flavorful seafood delicacy that can be prepared in a variety of ways. Meunière is a classic French method of cooking fish or seafood that results in a crispy, golden-brown exterior and a delicate, moist interior. This versatile dish is perfect for a special occasion or a casual weeknight meal.

Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!

SOFT-SHELL CRABS MEUNIERE WITH HAZELNUTS



Soft-Shell Crabs Meuniere With Hazelnuts image

Provided by Moira Hodgson

Categories     dinner, project, main course

Time 20m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 11

8 ready-to-cook soft-shell crabs
Milk for dipping
Flour for dredging
Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons sliced roasted hazelnuts
2 tablespoons hazelnut oil
1 tablespoon chives, finely chopped
1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh tarragon leaves, finely chopped
4 lemon wedges

Steps:

  • Dip crabs in milk, then in flour seasoned with salt and pepper. Heat butter in a large skillet and saute the crabs, starting with the shell side down first for two minutes. Turn over and saute for one and a half to two minutes on the other side. Drain on paper towels.
  • Add hazelnuts and hazelnut oil to pan and scrape up cooking juices. Serve crabs immediately with pan juices and nuts poured over them. Garnish with herbs and lemon wedges.

Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 246, UnsaturatedFat 16 grams, Carbohydrate 4 grams, Fat 22 grams, Fiber 2 grams, Protein 10 grams, SaturatedFat 5 grams, Sodium 186 milligrams, Sugar 1 gram, TransFat 0 grams

SAUTEED SOFT-SHELL CRABS WITH CAPER BROWN BUTTER



Sauteed Soft-Shell Crabs with Caper Brown Butter image

Provided by Tyler Florence

Categories     main-dish

Time 30m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 10

2 cups all-purpose flour
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
4 medium soft-shell crabs, cleaned and rinsed
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
2 tablespoons capers, drained
1/2 cup dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc
1 lemon, juiced
1 handful fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
Lemon wedges, for serving

Steps:

  • To prepare the soft-shell crabs: Put the flour in a pie dish or plate and season with a fair amount of salt and pepper. Dredge the crabs in the seasoned flour to coat, shaking off the excess. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high flame. Lay the crabs in the hot oil in a single layer without crowding; you may have to fry them in batches. Be careful, the crabs have a tendency to pop and spatter. Cook the crabs for about 3 minutes on each side, turning once, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and cover to keep warm.
  • Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the pan. Let the butter melt and cook until it just begins to brown. Add the capers and wine; cook, stirring, for 2 minutes until almost dry. Add the lemon juice and parsley; season with salt and pepper. Pour the caper brown butter sauce over the crabs and serve with lemon wedges.

SOFT-SHELL CRABS



Soft-Shell Crabs image

Provided by Martha Stewart

Categories     Food & Cooking     Ingredients     Seafood Recipes

Number Of Ingredients 8

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons coarse salt, plus more for sprinkling
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
4 medium soft-shell crabs, cleaned
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 lemon, cut into 8 wedges
Celeriac Salad

Steps:

  • Line a baking sheet with paper towels; set aside. Combine flour, salt, and pepper in a large shallow dish. Dredge crabs in seasoned flour, tapping off excess; set aside.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter and oil to skillet. When butter has melted, add crabs and cook until deep golden brown, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer crabs to a prepared baking sheet to drain. Sprinkle with salt. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Tips:

  • Choose the Right Crabs: Select live, active soft-shelled crabs with a firm shell. Avoid any with a cracked or damaged shell.
  • Clean the Crabs Properly: Carefully remove the top shell of the crab and discard the feathery part (gills) and mouth. Rinse the crab thoroughly under cold water.
  • Season and Dredge the Crabs: Season the crabs with salt, pepper, and other desired seasonings. Dredge the seasoned crabs in flour to help the butter adhere during cooking.
  • Use Clarified Butter: Clarified butter has a higher smoke point, making it ideal for frying the crabs. It prevents burning and adds a rich, nutty flavor.
  • Cook the Crabs in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking. Cook the crabs in batches to prevent them from steaming instead of frying.
  • Flip the Crabs Carefully: Use a spatula to gently flip the crabs halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly on both sides.
  • Serve Fresh: Soft-shelled crabs are best served immediately after cooking. Garnish with lemon wedges and parsley for a classic presentation.

Conclusion:

Soft-shelled crabs meunière is a delectable dish that showcases the delicate flavor and texture of these unique crustaceans. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can create a memorable and delicious meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Remember to choose fresh, high-quality crabs, clean and season them properly, and cook them in clarified butter for a golden-brown and flavorful result. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and parsley for an unforgettable dining experience.

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