Grilled Soft Shell Crabs

Here on the Eastern Shore of Maryland not much else says summer like crabs (and beer!).  Although traditionally sauteed or deep fried, soft shell crabs grill beautifully in just a few minutes.  Brined in buttermilk, seasoned with Old Bay, and basted in butter- they will get crispy!

Start with cleaned soft crabs- we would recommend at least 2 per adult.

Start with cleaned soft crabs- we would recommend at least 2 per adult.

Generously season the crabs with Old Bay and then cover with buttermilk.  Add another sprinkle of Old Bay on top and let them rest in the fridge for 30-60 minutes.

Generously season the crabs with Old Bay and then cover with buttermilk. Add another sprinkle of Old Bay on top and let them rest in the fridge for 30-60 minutes.

Prepare the Primo for direct grilling.  Prepare a butter sauce for basting- a tablespoon of butter per crab, an appropriate amount of Old Bay, and chopped scallions.  When ready to grill gently  pat dry the crabs and then top coat with the butter baste.

Prepare the Primo for direct grilling. Prepare a butter sauce for basting- a tablespoon of unsalted butter per crab, an appropriate amount of Old Bay, and chopped scallions. When ready to grill gently pat dry the crabs and then top coat with the butter baste.

Don't walk away from the grill- they will only need about 10 minutes depending on the heat of the grill.  We targeted a grill temp of 350 and went 3-4 minutes each side, basting the top after each turn.

Don’t walk away from the grill- they will only need a few minutes depending on the heat of the grill. We targeted a grill temp of 350 and went 3-4 minutes each side, basting the top after each turn.

Let them finish for another minute or two with a final basting of butter.

Let them finish for another minute or two with a final basting of butter to get crispy.

They are done when crispy and have achieved a nice orange color.

They are done when crispy and have achieved a nice orange color.

Finish them with a light dusting of Old Bay.  Enjoy!

Finish them with a light dusting of Old Bay. Enjoy!

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