Where to Buy Soft Shell Crab – A Complete Guide

Soft shell crab is a delicious delicacy enjoyed by seafood lovers across the country The tender, sweet flavor and unique texture make soft shell crab a highly sought after seasonal treat But where can you buy high-quality soft shell crab? This complete guide will walk you through the best places to purchase fresh soft shell crab online or at local stores.

What is Soft Shell Crab?

Soft shell crab refers to blue crabs that have recently molted their hard outer shell. During this brief window, the entire crab is edible including the body and legs since the new shell has not hardened yet. Soft shell season runs from early spring through fall when crabs are actively shedding their shell to grow. Soft shell crabs must be harvested and consumed within days of molting before the new shell begins to harden again. This makes availability limited compared to regular hard shell crabs.

Buying Soft Shell Crab Online

Purchasing soft shell crabs online is a convenient way to enjoy this delicacy even when they are out of season in your area. Online seafood retailers with overnight shipping provide access to fresh soft shell crab year-round. Here are some top places to buy soft shell crab online:

Linton’s Seafood

Linton’s Seafood is one of the most renowned sources for Maryland soft shell crab. Their crabs are harvested from the Chesapeake Bay where many believe the best soft shells originate. Linton’s offers four premium sizes graded individually – Hotel Prime Jumbo and Whale. You can order their soft shell crabs live or frozen.

Crab Dynasty

Crab Dynasty is another trusted online retailer specializing in Maryland blue crabs shipped nationwide. They carry both live and frozen soft shell crab available in the four size grades. Their crabs are cleaned, packaged and frozen at peak freshness to deliver tender, sweet soft shell crab taste.

Seattle Fish Company

Seattle Fish Company is a major national supplier of fresh seafood including soft shell crab when in season. They receive regular shipments of soft shell crabs from fisheries along the East Coast and Gulf Coast. You can purchase their soft shell crabs online in quantities from single units up to bulk case orders.

Lobster Place

Based in New York City, Lobster Place ships fresh seafood across the country overnight. Soft shell crab is available throughout crab season. You can order them pre-cleaned and ready to cook. Lobster Place sources soft shell crabs from the mid-Atlantic region.

Buying Soft Shell Crab Locally

Searching for soft shell crab in stores near you is another option during crab season. Here are some places to check for local soft shell crab:

Independent Fish Markets

Local independent fish markets and seafood shops are good spots to find soft shell crabs when they are in season. These specialty stores are able to source fresh catch from regional fishermen and can hand select your soft shells. Independent fish markets are found in coastal towns or areas with access to fresh regional seafood.

Seafood Counters at Grocery Stores

Many higher end grocery stores have fresh seafood counters that stock seasonal soft shell crabs. Check the seafood counter at your local supermarket, especially ones sourcing from regional fisheries. Special order soft shell crabs a day ahead to ensure availability.

Asian Supermarkets

Markets specializing in Asian foods frequently carry soft shell crab when they are in season. The delicacy is popular across many Asian cuisines. Check tanks with live seafood or frozen section for soft shell crabs at your local Asian food mart.

Local Farmers Markets

Ask vendors at farmers markets if they have soft shell crabs for sale. Some may sell fresh seafood in addition to produce. Farmers markets in coastal regions commonly have soft shell crab from local crab fisheries when in season.

Fish Mongers and Seafood Shacks

Traditional fish mongers and seasonal seafood shacks found near crabbing waters are prime spots for freshly caught soft shell crabs. These mom-and-pop type vendors can give you first pick of the daily catch.

How to Buy the Best Quality

When buying soft shell crabs, here are a few tips to find the best quality:

• Look for crabs that are lively and moist if purchasing live soft shells.

• Frozen soft shell crabs should feel very firm and solid when still frozen with no signs of freezer burn.

• Prioritize soft shells from renowned harvest regions like the Chesapeake Bay.

• Buy from reputable vendors with high product turnover to maximize freshness.

• Choose crabs that have recently molted with very thin, flexible shells.

• Opt for undamaged crabs with all legs and claws intact.

• Pick the appropriately sized crab for your recipe or number of servings.

• Inspect crabs for moistness and avoid any with dry spots.

Storing Soft Shell Crabs

To maintain quality and freshness, proper storage of soft shell crabs is important:

• Keep live crabs chilled at 38-45°F. Place on damp newspaper in breathable container.

• Cook live soft shell crabs within 1-2 days of delivery.

• Store frozen soft shell crabs below 0°F. They can last 6-12 months frozen.

• Thaw frozen soft shell crabs overnight in the refrigerator or by immersing sealed bag in cold water.

• Once thawed, use within 1-2 days and do not refreeze.

With this guide, you now know the prime sources to buy fresh and delicious soft shell crab either online or locally when in season. Follow the tips on selecting high-quality soft shells and proper storage to enjoy the fabulous taste of this seafood delicacy at home. Let us know your favorite soft shell crab recipe!

Soft-shell crabs are not a different species, but rather crabs that have recently molted their hard outer shell and are caught before the new shell hardens. To get soft-shell crabs, fishermen hold crabs in saltwater tanks before they molt.