Looking for a quick but impressive seafood bite? These crispy soft shell crab sliders are the perfect solution. Using frozen soft shell crab, you can create a restaurant quality meal in just 15 minutes. This works well for fast lunches, casual dinners, or sharing plates with friends.
Golden and crunchy on the outside with a tender inside, these sliders are all about contrast between crispy crab, soft brioche buns, and a fresh tangy sauce that brings everything together.
Ingredients (serves 2 to 3)
- 2 to 4 frozen soft shell crabs, thawed
- 4 brioche slider buns
- 1 cup flour for light coating
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying, vegetable or sunflower oil
For the sauce
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Optional hot sauce for a spicy kick
To assemble
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced pickles optional
- Fresh herbs optional
Instructions
- Pat the thawed soft shell crabs dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Coat each crab in flour, dip into beaten egg, then cover evenly with panko breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium high heat. Fry the crabs for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and optional hot sauce in a small bowl to create the sauce.
- Lightly toast brioche buns in a pan or oven until golden.
- Spread sauce on both sides of the bun, add lettuce, place the crispy crab inside, and finish with pickles or herbs if desired.
Tips for Perfect Soft Shell Crab Sliders
- Do not overcook the crab as it can become tough quickly.
- Dry the crab thoroughly before coating to ensure maximum crispiness.
- Check oil temperature carefully. If it is too low the coating becomes soggy, if too high it burns.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and crunch.
Serving Ideas
These sliders pair well with sweet potato fries, light coleslaw, lemon wedges, or a cold drink such as beer or sparkling lemonade.
Ready to upgrade your seafood nights? Try these crispy soft shell crab sliders using frozen crab for a fast and flavour packed meal any day of the week.
