Ingredients:

  • 4 soft shell crabs (about 4 ounces or 113g each)
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup (30g) cornstarch
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ cup (120ml) cold beer or sparkling water
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • ½ cup (120ml) mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Sriracha (or to taste)
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:

  1. Clean the soft shell crabs under cold water, removing the gills and any impurities.
  2. Pat them dry with paper towels.
  3. Season the crabs with a pinch of salt and pepper; let them marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and paprika.
  5. Gradually whisk in cold beer or sparkling water until smooth.
  6. Fill the pot with vegetable oil to a depth of about 3 inches.
  7. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) using a thermometer.
  8. Carefully dip each crab in the batter, letting excess drip off.
  9. Fry crabs in batches, cooking for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
  10. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  11. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, Sriracha, and salt until combined.
  12. Serve the crispy soft shell crabs immediately, drizzled with spicy aioli.