Photo: Victor Protasio; Prop Styling: Claire Spollen; Food Styling: Torie Cox
Our homemade rémoulade sauce takes this classic seafood sandwich to the next level. If you’re new to cooking soft-shells, many seafood counters sell pre-cleaned crabs that are ready to cook. (Be sure to use them the same day you buy them.) Or follow the directions below and prep them at home with a pair of kitchen shears.
How to Make It
Step 1
Stir together first 7 ingredients, 1 teaspoon of the salt, and 1⁄2 teaspoon of the pepper in a bowl; set aside.
Step 2
Using a sharp pair of kitchen shears, snip off mouth and eyes of crabs; squeeze out gooey matter where cut was made. Carefully raise top shell on far left of crab. Use shears to cut away feathery-looking gills; repeat procedure on right side of crab. Turn crab over, and remove tough flap from stomach.
Step 3
Stir together flour and remaining 1⁄2 teaspoon each salt and pepper. Dredge crabs in flour mixture, shaking off excess. Melt 2 tablespoons butter with 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium-high until hot. Add 3 prepared crabs; cook until golden brown and aromatic, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Place crabs on paper towels to drain and cool. Repeat with remaining butter, oil, and prepared crabs.
Step 4
Divide sauce, fried crabs, lettuce, and tomatoes evenly among potato rolls, and serve immediately.
