Soft-Shell Crabs With Brown Butter

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Put the crabs in a shallow dish in one layer and add the milk, cayenne, salt and pepper. Turn the crabs in the milk.

2. Step 2

   Dip the crabs immediately into the flour, turning to coat them well. Shake off the excess flour.

3. Step 3

   Heat the oil until quite hot in a nonstick skillet large enough to hold the crabs in one layer. Add the crabs, belly side down. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes (more or less, depending on the size of the crabs) until golden brown on both sides and cooked through.

4. Step 4

   Transfer the crabs to a warm serving platter. Garnish with lemon slices.

5. Step 5

   Wipe out the skillet with a clean cloth and add the butter. When it is bubbling and turned hazelnut color add the lemon juice and pour the mixture over the crabs. Sprinkle with parsley and serve immediately.