Cooking Soft Shell Crab In Air Fryer
Soft shell crab is a favorite dish among seafood lovers, but cooking it can be a bit daunting. Fortunately, with the help of an air fryer, it's easier than ever to make crispy and delicious soft shell crab at home. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps of cooking soft shell crab in air fryer, so you can enjoy this tasty and healthy meal any time you want.
What is Soft Shell Crab?
If you're not familiar with soft shell crab, it's essentially a crab that has recently molted its hard outer shell, leaving its body soft and pliable. This makes it easier to eat and allows for a delicate and flavorful texture that's highly sought after by seafood aficionados. While some people may find the idea of eating a soft shell crab a bit strange, it's actually a delicious and healthy dish that's low in fat and high in protein.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
There are many ways to cook soft shell crab, including frying, grilling, and baking. However, using an air fryer has become increasingly popular due to its ability to cook food quickly and with little to no added oil. This results in a healthier and more delicious meal that's crispy and flavorful without all the added calories and fat. Plus, air fryers are easy to use and require minimal clean up, making them a great option for busy individuals who still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal.
Ingredients:
- 4-6 soft shell crabs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and buttermilk.
4. Dip each soft shell crab first into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture, and finally into the panko breadcrumbs, making sure to coat each piece evenly.
5. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then place the breaded soft shell crabs in a single layer in the basket, being careful not to overcrowd them.
6. Cook the soft shell crabs in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown. You may need to flip them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
7. Remove the soft shell crabs from the air fryer basket and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or side dish.
Conclusion:
Cooking soft shell crab in air fryer is an easy and delicious way to enjoy this flavorful and healthy dish at home. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of know-how, you can create a crispy and golden brown meal that's sure to impress. So why not give it a try today and see for yourself why this cooking method has become so popular among seafood lovers everywhere?
