Soft-Shell Crabs

Directions

1. 1
   Dip the soft-shell crabs in the milk.
2. 2
   Toss together on a piece of wax paper the flour and the panko and breadcrumbs, and season with salt, pepper,and ancho chili powder, if using.
3. 3
   Heat the oil in a heavy skillet that will accommodate the crabs.
4. 4
   When its sizzling, shake off the excess milk and dip the crabs in the crumb mixture.
5. 5
   Slip them into the pan, and saute on one side for 23 minutes, until crusty and golden brown, then turn and brown the other sideabout 5 minutes in all.
6. 6
   Remove the crabs to a warm plate, and squeeze lemon juice over them.
7. 7
   Quickly wipe out the hot pan, and over medium heat swirl at least a tablespoon of buttermore, if you likearound in it, until the butter turns brown.
8. 8
   Pour the browned butter over the crabs, and sprinkle parsley on top.
9. 9
   Eat immediately.Second round?
10. 10
    None on this.
11. 11
    I always lick the plate clean.