Spring brings many wonderful treats and one of the most special is the arrival of the domestic fresh soft crab season. That wonderful sweet seafood delicacy can be found on restaurant menus and at seafood markets beginning in early to mid-May. Soft Crabs are a wonderful Mother’s Day treat or make any late spring to summertime occasion special!
As the waters warm and the blue crabs come out of hibernation, they quickly grow out of their hard outer shell and molt, leaving the crab in its soft most delicious stage. “It doesn’t last long though,” said Chris Owens, Handy Internationals Manager of Fresh Sales. “Soft crab’s outer shell starts to harden within 2 hours of molting if not harvested and removed from the water.” Never fear, this molting process typically continues through September making fresh domestic soft crabs available all summer!
It is amazing how quick and easy it is to prepare soft crabs, you just have to prep them with your favorite recipe and serve! They are especially good sautéed or cooked on an outdoor grill. For those who do not wish to cook, look for them at your favorite restaurant where you will find so many unique and delicious presentations—a favorite of chefs.
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