Steam Soft Shell Crab

Steam Soft Shell Crab: A Chesapeake Bay Delight

Ever wondered what those delightful, juicy morsels you see on restaurant menus in the USA are? Enter: Steam Soft Shell Crab!

These delicacies are a Chesapeake Bay tradition and are a must-try for anyone who loves seafood.

What is a Soft Shell Crab?

Soft shell crabs are young crabs whose shells haven't hardened. They're caught by skilled fishermen and steamed shortly after being caught, locking in their fresh flavor and tenderness.

How are they prepared?

The crabs are steamed whole with their legs and claws still attached. This ensures maximum flavor and tenderness. Once steamed, they're usually cracked open and served with drawn butter or cocktail sauce for dipping.

What to expect:

- Flavor: Soft shell crabs have a sweet, succulent flavor with a hint of brininess.

- Texture: The flesh is firm yet tender, almost melting in your mouth.

- Experience: Steaming soft shell crabs is a communal experience. You can pick them apart with your fingers, peel the legs, or use crackers to break them down.

Tips for trying Soft Shell Crab:

- Go for local: Chesapeake Bay is known for its delicious soft shell crabs.

- Try different sauces: Experiment with cocktail sauce, drawn butter, or even lemon butter for dipping.

- Get messy: Be prepared to get your fingers and hands a little dirty. It's all part of the fun!

Where to find them:

Steam soft shell crab is commonly found on menus in:

- Seafood restaurants throughout the Chesapeake Bay region.

- Crab houses and seafood shacks are also great places to find them.

So, why not try this delicious and unique Chesapeake Bay tradition? You won't be disappointed!