Jul 09 2026
RestaurantsSimp McGhee'sFried Crab Claws Recipe

Fried Crab Claws Recipe

Inspired by Simp McGhee's
Time1h
Serves4

with cocktail and tartar sauce

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Ingredients

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APPETIZERS

Method

APPETIZERS

  1. 1

    Prepare oil and workspace

    Line a baking sheet with parchment and place a rack above; fill a heavy pot with vegetable oil to about 3 inches depth. Heat to 350°F (175°C) and keep ready for frying.

  2. 2

    Prep crab claws

    Pat crab claws dry with paper towels. Arrange on a rack so surfaces stay dry for coating.

  3. 3

    Make dredge and batter

    In a large shallow dish, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. In a separate bowl whisk eggs with milk until smooth.

  4. 4

    Coat claws

    Dredge each claw in the flour mixture, tapping to remove excess. Dip in the egg wash, then roll in the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.

  5. 5

    Fry

    Fry coated claws in batches for 2–3 minutes, turning once, until deeply golden and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels atop the rack.

COCKTAIL SAUCE PREPARATION

  1. 6

    In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, prepared horseradish, lemon juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt. Chill in the refrigerator until serving.

TARTAR SAUCE PREPARATION

  1. 7

    In a medium bowl, whisk mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, lemon juice, fresh dill, salt, and pepper until smooth. Refrigerate until serving.

TO SERVE

  1. 8

    Arrange fried crab claws on a platter with lemon wedges. Serve immediately with the cocktail sauce on one side and the tartar sauce on the other.

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