Maryland Fried Soft-Shell Crab Sandwich on the Grill

Introduction

This Maryland Fried Soft-Shell Crab Sandwich is a seafood lover’s dream. Grilled to perfection on the Arteflame Grill, the soft-shell crabs get an incredible crispy edge while staying juicy inside. Paired with fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, and a soft bun, this sandwich is pure coastal bliss. Using the Arteflame flat top cooktop ensures perfectly even sears without burning, making each bite irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 fresh soft-shell crabs, cleaned
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 4 tbsp butter (for grilling)
• 4 sandwich buns
• 4 lettuce leaves
• 1 tomato, sliced
• 1/4 cup tartar sauce
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the grill and stack firewood over top.
3. Light the napkins and let the fire heat the grill for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the crabs

1. Dip the cleaned soft-shell crabs into the buttermilk and let them soak for 5 minutes.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
3. Remove crabs from buttermilk and dredge them in the seasoned flour.
4. Shake off any excess flour.

Step 3: Grill the crabs

1. Add butter to the flat top cooktop of the Arteflame Grill.
2. Place the crabs on the hot part of the cooktop, closer to the center for a hotter sear.
3. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

Step 4: Toast the buns

1. Place the sandwich buns on the outer edge of the griddle to warm them up.
2. Toast for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble the sandwiches

1. Spread tartar sauce on both halves of the toasted buns.
2. Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun.
3. Add a grilled soft-shell crab and top with a slice of tomato.
4. Place the top bun over and serve with lemon wedges.

Tips

• Remove the crabs from the grill when they reach 15°F below desired internal temperature.
• For extra flavor, add a splash of fresh lemon juice over the crab before serving.
• Always use butter instead of oil on the griddle for a richer taste.

Variations

1. Spicy Cajun: Add Cajun seasoning to the flour mix for extra heat.
2. Garlic Herb: Mix minced garlic and fresh parsley into the butter before grilling.
3. Asian Infusion: Add a dash of soy sauce and sesame oil to the butter for an umami twist.
4. Avocado Delight: Add mashed avocado and a sprinkle of sea salt to the sandwich for a creamy balance.
5. Cheesy Crunch: Melt a slice of pepper jack cheese over the crab while on the griddle.

Best Pairings

• Coleslaw for a crunchy, tangy contrast.
• Sweet potato fries cooked on the Arteflame griddle.
• An ice-cold glass of lemonade or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

Conclusion

This Maryland Fried Soft-Shell Crab Sandwich is the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and flavorful. Grilled to perfection on the Arteflame Grill, it’s an easy and delicious meal that brings a bite of the Chesapeake Bay straight to your table.