Where to Buy Soft Shell Crab Near Me

Soft shell crab is a delicious seafood delicacy enjoyed by many across the United States. While it may not be as readily available as typical hard shell crabs, soft shell crab can still be found at select stores and markets if you know where to look This article will go over everything you need to know about buying soft shell crab near you, from what exactly it is to tips for finding it locally

What is Soft Shell Crab?

Soft shell crab refers to blue crabs that have recently molted their outer shell. Crabs molt in order to grow larger. During the molting process, a soft shell crab emerges without its hard outer shell until the new shell can fully form and harden. This leaves the crab’s meat exposed and completely edible. Soft shell crabs have a tender texture and succulent, sweet flavor that crab lovers adore. They are typically harvested and sold immediately after molting to capitalize on their temporary soft shell state.

Soft shell season coincides with the natural molting period for blue crabs, which takes place during late spring through early fall. While soft shell crabs can be found frozen year-round, they are considered a seasonal summer delicacy when abundant numbers are actively molting along the East Coast and Gulf of Mexico. Many seafood restaurants feature soft shell crab specials during peak season to take advantage of their fresh availability.

Where to Find Soft Shell Crab Near Me

You may be wondering where you can find soft shell crabs for sale if you want to cook them at home Here are some of the best places to check in your area

Local Seafood Markets

Your best bet for finding fresh soft shell crabs is to check with local seafood markets, especially those that focus on selling crab. Some may even have tanks where you can pick out your own soft shells. High-end grocers like Whole Foods also carry soft shell crab when they are in season. Ask the fishmonger when their next delivery is expected.

Fishmongers at Farmers Markets

Visit farmers markets in your area and browse the selections from local fishmongers. They may have access to freshly caught soft shells from regional fishermen. Let them know you are interested in soft shells and ask to be notified when they are available. Farmers markets are a great way to connect with providers of seasonal and specialty ingredients.

Online Seafood Retailers

If your local market comes up short, you can order soft shell crab online through seafood retailers that overnight ship fresh catches. Companies like Seattle Fish Co, Fulton Fish Market, and Lobster Anywhere ship soft shell crabs packed with gel ice packs to keep them chilled. Order a few days before you want to cook them.

Asian Supermarkets

Markets specializing in Asian foods, especially those with live seafood tanks, are probable sources for finding soft shell crabs. Various Asian cuisines prize soft shell crab as an ingredient. Places like H Mart, 99 Ranch Market, and Hong Kong Supermarket frequently carry them.

High-End Restaurants

Some haute cuisine or seafood-focused restaurants may be willing to sell you soft shell crabs even if it’s not on their public menu. Call ahead to ask if their kitchen has a few extra they’d be willing to part with when they get a shipment in. Offer to pay menu price or more since it’s a special request.

How to Buy Soft Shell Crabs

Once you’ve located a source for soft shells, keep these buying tips in mind:

• Inspect for freshness – Soft shells should look moist and smell like the ocean, not fishy or ammonia-like. The crab should feel firm, not mushy. Discoloration, unpleasant odors, and dried out crabs are signs they are past their prime.

• Choose larger sizes – Jumbo, whale, and colossal sized soft shells will give you more meat. Smaller hotels and mediums may not yield much.

• Purchase extras – These delicate crabs don’t have a long shelf life, so account for some possible waste. It’s better to have a few extra than to not have enough.

• Pick lively crabs – Opt for soft shells that appear active and moving if purchasing live. Their shells will firm up quickly if already near the end of their soft stage.

• Check for packaging date – If buying frozen or chilled soft shells, check date and only purchase if they were packaged within the last few days for optimal freshness.

• Clarify quantity needs – Let the seller know you want enough for a specific number of people so they can advise you on the right amount to buy.

How to Cook Soft Shell Crab

Once you get your soft shell crabs home, they should be cooked as soon as possible for best flavor. Here are some popular cooking methods:

• Pan frying – Dip in egg and flour and pan fry in butter or oil for 2-3 minutes per side.

• Deep frying – Coat in batter or breadcrumbs and deep fry at 350°F for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

• Sauteeing – Quickly saute in olive oil with garlic, herbs, lemon, and white wine.

• Grilling – Brush with olive oil and grill for 2-3 minutes per side. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

• Baking – Place on a baking sheet and bake at 450°F for 8-12 minutes until cooked through.

Soft shell crabs pair beautifully with fresh lemon, roasted garlic, parsley, Cajun seasoning, butter, and crab boil seasonings. Get creative and try them in Po’ Boys, tacos, noodle bowls, salads, or on pizza. Just take care not to overcook these tender crabs as they require very little time to become hot and delicious.

Enjoy the Soft Shell Crab Experience

Part of the fun of eating soft shell crab is the novelty of biting into the entire crab, shell and all. The paper-thin fried shell provides a crispy counterpoint to the sweet interior meat. Follow this guide to seek out soft shells near you and add this seasonal treat to your seafood repertoire. Getting to crack open a whole softie is a delicious hands-on eating experience that every crab aficionado should get to enjoy.