Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsGOLDEN SAIGON RestaurantFried Soft Shelled Crab Recipe

Fried Soft Shelled Crab Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

Make Fried Soft Shelled Crab Recipe in just 1h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Crab Preparation

Garnish

Method

Crab Preparation

  1. 1

    Clean the Crabs

    Rinse the soft shelled crabs under cold water and remove the gills and the eyes. Pat them dry with paper towels.

  2. 2

    Marinate

    In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, and black pepper. Add the crabs to the mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Batter and Coating

  1. 3

    Prepare the Batter

    In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

  2. 4

    Coat the Crabs

    Remove the crabs from the buttermilk marinade and shake off excess liquid. Dredge each crab in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Shake off excess flour.

Frying

  1. 5

    Heat the Oil

    In a large skillet or deep frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

  2. 6

    Fry the Crabs

    Carefully place the coated crabs in the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy.

  3. 7

    Drain Excess Oil

    Once fried, remove the crabs with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Garnish

  1. 8

    Serve

    Arrange the fried soft shelled crabs on a serving platter, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

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