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Soft Shells Crabs In Air Fryer

Air Fryer Soft Shell Crab

3.71 from 34 votes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings

Description

Air Fryer Soft Shell Crab -- Soft shell crabs are a delicious seafood dish, but they can be challenging to make. This recipe shows you how to make soft shell crab in an air fryer for the first time! The result is crispy and flavorful with much less mess than when using a deep fryer.

Ingredients 

  • 4 soft shell crabs
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, whisked
  • 3 cups panko, or panko bread crumbs, optional
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 large lemon, Cut into wedges for serving

Instructions

  • If your crabs are frozen, make sure to thaw them completely.
  • Clean the crabs: Remove the eyes and mouth area, lift the shell on the sides to remove the gills, and trim the rear flap.
  • Lightly season the crabs with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings like paprika or garlic powder.
  • In a shallow dish, lightly beat the eggs.
  • Place the flour (or almond flour) in another shallow dish. If using breadcrumbs or panko, place them in a third dish.
  • Dip each crab into the flour, ensuring it's lightly coated, then dip into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. If using breadcrumbs or panko, finish by pressing the crab into them.
  • Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (188°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
  • Lightly spray or brush both sides of the crabs with olive oil or use a cooking spray.
  • Place the crabs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd; you might need to cook in batches depending on the size of your fryer.
  • Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they're golden brown and crispy.
  • Once done, transfer the crabs to a serving plate. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and optional tartar sauce or remoulade on the side.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Cooking Spray
  • Parchment Paper, optional

Notes

Note: Soft-shell crabs can vary in size, so always keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. The key is to achieve a golden-brown exterior while ensuring the crab is fully cooked inside.
Enjoy your delicious air-fried soft-shell crabs with a delightful crunch on the outside and a tender, flavorful inside.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 235kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 9gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 715mgPotassium: 214mgFiber: 2gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 162IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 192mgIron: 2mg