One of the favorite local delicacies along the beautiful white sand beaches and turquoise bays, is also one of the easiest to prepare, perfect for visitors to the Emerald Coast who would like to try this regional treat. Of course, we’re talking about tasty Blue crab!

A shallow water crab found along Florida’s Atlantic and Gulf coasts, Blues are herbivores that thrive in the pristine salt, fresh and brackish waters of our bays, channels and bayous. During the winter months, these strikingly colored crustaceans move into deeper water and enter a state of semi-hibernation, which is why Blue crab is typically available July through October.

Blue crab is available as both hard- and soft-shell, with soft-shell crabs being more valuable on the market. Hard-shell crab is commonly boiled whole and served in its shell, whereas the soft-shell crab is prepared by dredging it in seasoned flour and frying it till golden brown as the entire crab may be eaten, shell and all.

Characteristics of the crab include a light, low fat meat with a mild, sweet flavor and a delicate texture. Blue crab can be substituted with stone crab, golden crab, spiny lobster, or shrimp, all also plentiful around Destin. The next time you are visiting the beautiful beaches of Destin Florida, try this recipe the whole family will love!

FRIED FLORIDA SOFT-SHELL BLUE CRAB

• 12 medium Florida soft-shell blue crabs
• 2 Florida eggs, beaten
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup dry bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon seafood seasoning
• ½ cup canola oil for frying

Rinse crabs under cold running water; pat dry with paper towels. In small bowl or pie plate, combine eggs, milk and salt. In a separate pie plate, combine flour, bread crumbs and seafood seasoning. Dip crabs in egg mixture; then roll in flour mixture. Heat the oil to 375 degrees F in a heavy saucepan. Cook crabs in a single layer for 4 minutes or until golden. Drain on absorbent paper.

For more tips, recipes and ideas for your visit to Destin, Florida, be sure to make your next reservation at the lovely Sea Oats Motel, an original beachfront favorite for families visiting the beautiful beaches of the Emerald Coast.

Ideal for the more laidback traveler, the Sea Oats Motel is perfectly situated on Old Highway 98, away from the crowds, yet only a moment away from all the outstanding shopping, dining, and attractions that make our home so amazing.

Each of our suites are designed to be your home away from home while visiting our beautiful beaches. Fine furnishings, spacious living areas, sumptuous beds dressed in fresh linens, and large, modern bathrooms will ease your mind and your body.

Not only is the Sea Oats Motel conveniently located just steps from the beach or all the great dining, shopping and entertainment the city offers, but our amenities and service are so outstanding that you may never want to leave.

Your family will love lounging around our beautiful, heated pools, surrounded by lush tropical foliage and fragrant blooms, all overlooking endless stretches of private beaches. Our beach services are sure to delight everyone as we arrange time for your family to enjoy our jet skis, paddle boards and parasailing or simply set up some beach chairs with umbrellas and a good book recommendation.

At the Sea Oats Motel in sunny Destin Florida, there’s always something fun to do. So come see what fall has in store for your family on the pristine beaches of the Emerald Coast, call today to learn more or to book your stay! .. 850-837-6655

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