Pan Fried Soft Shell Crab with Smoked Tomato and Jalapeño Peppers

[Southern Belle 2067]

Found this recipe in a paper in Texas about 20 years ago when we lived there it is good.

2 soft shelled crabs
1 tomato, smoked
2 jalapeños, smoked
Hickory chips
2 cups water
1/2 tsp. salt
Butter, to taste
1/2 cup instant grits
1/3 cup whole milk
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1 cup all-purpose breading
Dried herbs of your choice
olive oil

Clean soft shell crabs and set aside.

To smoke the tomato and jalapeños, place wood chips on a hot grill. Score the top of the tomatoes and sides of the jalapeños place near the wood chips and cover for about 10 minutes. When cool, peel the skins off the tomatoes and jalapeños. Puree the tomatoes and jalapeños in a blender. Put aside.

In a saucepan, bring water, salt and butter to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits.

Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for four to six minutes, stirring constantly. Stir in the milk and tomato mixture then fold in the Parmesan cheese, save some cheese for garnish.

Mix the breading and dried herbs and bread all parts of the crabs.

In a large sauté pan, heat the oil and place the breaded crabs in the pan and cook until golden brown. Turn over and finish the other side.

Place the grits in a bowl and put the crabs on top. Garnish with Parmesan cheese

Serves 2

Enjoy