Grilled Soft Shell Crab
with Cilantro Salsa

Serves 4

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups fresh cilantro leaves
• 2 cloves peeled garlic
• 1 1-inch piece peeled ginger
• 1 habanero or jalapeño pepper, stemmed and seeded, or dried red chili flakes to taste
• 3 tablespoons peanut or olive oil, or neutral oil, like corn or canola Salt and pepper to taste
• Lime juice to taste
• 8 soft-shell crabs, cleaned

Directions

1. Start a charcoal fire or heat a gas grill or broiler; fire should be moderately hot and rack 4 inches or less from heat source.
2. Combine cilantro in a blender or food processor with garlic, ginger, chili and oil. Turn on machine and purée, adding a bit of water — about 1/4 cup or less — to allow machine to do its work. If necessary, stop machine and scrape down sides. Remove purée to a bowl and add some salt and pepper, then thin with a tablespoon or two of lime juice; taste and adjust seasoning.
3. Sprinkle crabs with salt and pepper and grill until firm, 3 to 4 minutes a side. Serve immediately, with a little cilantro salsa spooned over them.

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Grilled Soft Shell Crab w Cilantro Salsa