Soft shell crabs are crabs that are molting, which is when the hard shell of the crab grows about 30 percent. They have to shed their old shell and when they exit that shell, they are soft for about 2 to 3 hours. Then their shell starts to turn hard again.

Why are crab shells soft?

As these crabs grow larger, their shells cannot expand, so they molt the exteriors and have a soft covering for a matter of days when they are vulnerable and considered usable. Fishermen often put crabs beginning to molt aside, until the molting process is complete in order to send them to market as soft-shells.

Is it safe to eat soft shell crab?

According to Ingber, "the whole soft shell is edible—and delicious." When it comes to cooking methods, he prepares the crabs a variety of ways: sautéed, fried or even grilled. "Personally, I love them marinated with extra-virgin olive oil, lots of assorted fresh herbs and garlic.