Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsMise en PlaceSoft Shell Crab Recipe

Soft Shell Crab Recipe

Inspired by Mise en Place
Time45m
Serves4

cornmeal crusted, old bay fingerling potato chips, candied pecan kale buttermilk slaw, malt vinegar aioli

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Ingredients

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Soft Shell Crab

Fingerling Potato Chips

Candied Pecan Kale Buttermilk Slaw

Malt Vinegar Aioli

Method

Prepare the Soft Shell Crab

  1. 1

    Prep the Crab

    Rinse soft shell crabs under cold water and pat dry. Remove the face and gills if not already done.

  2. 2

    Battering

    In a bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, old bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Dip each crab in the egg mixture, then dredge in the cornmeal mix.

Fry the Soft Shell Crab

  1. 3

    Fry

    In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Fry the crabs for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Make the Fingerling Potato Chips

  1. 4

    Slice and Fry

    Slice fingerling potatoes thinly. In a separate pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry the potato slices until crispy. Drain and season with old bay and salt.

Prepare the Candied Pecan Kale Buttermilk Slaw

  1. 5

    Make the Slaw

    In a large bowl, combine chopped kale, candied pecans, buttermilk, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and salt. Toss well to coat.

Prepare the Malt Vinegar Aioli

  1. 6

    Make the Aioli

    In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, malt vinegar, minced garlic, and salt to taste. Stir well to combine.

Assembly

  1. 7

    Serve

    On a plate, serve the fried soft shell crab, alongside fingerling potato chips, a generous portion of the kale slaw, and a side of malt vinegar aioli for dipping.

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