Imagine biting into a sandwich so extraordinary, it transforms an ordinary meal into a culinary adventure! These Parmesan crusted soft shell crab sandwiches are not just a dish, they're a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Crispy, golden-brown crabs nestled between soft rolls, creating a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that will transport you straight to coastal dining bliss. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or looking to impress your dinner guests, this recipe is your ticket to gourmet sandwich greatness.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 soft shell crabs, cleaned
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 4 sandwich rolls
- 1/4 cup tartar sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce and tomato for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the soft shell crabs. Ensure they are cleaned properly, removing the gills and any residual innards. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of cheese throughout the breadcrumbs.
- In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. Season the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan generously. Allow the oil to heat up until shimmering but not smoking.
- While the oil is heating, take each soft shell crab and dip it first into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess egg to drip off.
- Next, transfer the egg-coated crab into the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the crab to create a thick, even crust. Repeat this process for all the crabs.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded soft shell crabs into the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Once cooked, remove the crabs from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- While the crabs are draining, prepare the sandwich rolls. You can lightly toast them in the same skillet for added flavor, if desired.
- To assemble the sandwiches, spread a generous amount of tartar sauce on the bottom half of each sandwich roll.
- Place a crispy Parmesan crusted soft shell crab on top of the tartar sauce, then add fresh lettuce and slices of tomato for garnish.
- Top with the other half of the sandwich roll and serve immediately while hot. Enjoy your delicious Parmesan crusted soft shell crab sandwiches!
Tips
- Freshness is Key: Always use fresh, high-quality soft shell crabs. Look for crabs that are clean, with no signs of discoloration.
- Moisture Management: Pat the crabs completely dry before breading to ensure a crisp, golden crust that doesn't become soggy.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Keep your oil at a steady medium heat (around 350°F). Too hot, and the outside burns; too cool, and the crab becomes greasy.
- Breading Technique: Press the Parmesan breadcrumbs firmly onto the crab to create a thick, even coating that will crisp up beautifully.
- Batch Cooking: Don't overcrowd the pan. Cook crabs in batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
- Drain Well: Let the cooked crabs rest on paper towels to remove excess oil and maintain their crispy texture.
- Serve Immediately: These sandwiches are best enjoyed hot and fresh, so time your assembly carefully to capture peak crispiness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 245mg
