JO Soft Shell Crab Batter Mix
- Easy to prepare
- Free standard shipping
- Premium value
The original soft crab batter developed by a Chesapeake Bay waterman and handed down through generations. Easy to use, it does not retain cooking oil, so your soft shells fry up light and crisp. Once available only to restaurants, now you can have that great taste at home.
Free standard USPS shipping
No cold packaging needed, ships anytime
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Shipping
Shipping
Shipping zones
- Local1 day in transit
- Regional1 and 2 days in transit
- National1 and 2 days in transit
- Hawaii and Alaska1 day in transit
Tuesday–Saturday Delivery • Nationwide Shipping • Overnight Arrival Available
Shipping rates are calculated at checkout and vary based on the products ordered, destination, and shipping method selected.
Packed for Freshness
Maryland crabs steamed fresh to order and never frozen. Perishable crab and seafood orders are carefully packed in insulated coolers with plenty of ice or cold packs to maintain freshness throughout transit.
Choose Your Delivery Date
Select your preferred delivery date when ordering. For parties and special occasions, we recommend scheduling delivery one day early in case of unexpected carrier delays.
Shipping Information
Order by 5:00 PM EST for next-day delivery eligibility. Carrier delays due to weather, high package volumes or other unforeseen circumstances may occur. Arrival dates are estimates, and deliveries within one day of the estimated arrival date are considered on time.
Did you know
Did you know
Crisp Outside, Tender Inside
A dry batter coating helps a soft-shell crab develop a crisp exterior while the crab cooks. Starch browns at the surface and helps protect the delicate interior from direct heat.
Removing excess moisture before coating helps the batter adhere more evenly. Cooking at a steady temperature then allows the coating to brown without becoming greasy or overcooking the crab.
Preparation
Preparation
Soft shell crabs
- Heat oil in a large skillet.
- Combine salt and flour in one bowl, and beat 2 eggs in another.
- Dip each cleaned soft shell crab in the egg, then coat it with the flour mixture or soft shell batter.
- Cook for approximately 4 minutes per side, until the shell is red and crisp and the batter is golden brown.
- Transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- Serve as a sandwich or as a main course.
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What Makes It Special
Chesapeake Seasoning
The classic spice profile Maryland crab houses are known for.
Pantry Workhorse
As good on fries, corn and chicken as it is on seafood.
Maryland Family Business
A family-run Maryland seafood house rooted in Chesapeake tradition.
Nationwide Delivery
From our dock in Maryland to your door, anywhere in the USA.
The Batter Mix Made for Soft Shell Crabs
A soft shell crab is one of the Bay's shortest-window pleasures, the whole crab eaten shell and all in the brief days after its molt, and the coating you fry it in decides the dinner. This JO mix was developed by a Chesapeake Bay waterman specifically for soft shells, and for years the recipe worked only in restaurant kitchens before home cooks could buy the package.
Fried Light, Not Greasy
What keeps cooks loyal to this mix is what is missing from the plate afterward. Because the batter does not hold onto cooking oil, the crab comes out of the pan tasting of crab rather than of the fryer: no soggy middle stage, no puddle to blot off the paper towels. Dredge, fry, serve. Each package holds 10 oz of mix, ready whenever the soft shells are.
A Recipe with Watermen Behind It
Watermen fried what they caught, and this formula moved through those families long before it was printed on a label. Cooking from it puts a home kitchen in that lineage in the most direct way there is: same coating, same crackle. When the season hits and you want more ways to cook the catch, browse the recipes on the iLoveCrabs blog for company.
The mix needs no refrigeration on its way to you, so tuck a package into any order and be ready the moment soft shell season opens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between hardshell and softshell crabs?
They are the same blue crab species in different lifecycle stages. Right after molting, the crab's body is temporarily soft, a short window when the whole crab is tender enough to enjoy. Hardshell crabs are typically steamed, while soft shell crabs are battered and fried.
How do I prepare your crabs and seafood?
Every order ships with preparation instructions, and our food prep guide, recipes and how-to videos cover steaming, re-steaming and cooking all of our crabs and seafood.
What seasoning do you use on the crabs?
Our traditional crab seasoning is a proprietary blend of spices with a flavor similar to JO Spice or Old Bay seasonings.
How much is shipping?
Shipping options and cost are calculated at checkout for the product, destination and requested delivery date. Eligible perishable orders may offer overnight or 2-day service, and select packages include standard shipping in the listed price.
Do you offer any discounts or promotional offers?
Yes, we regularly offer substantial discounts and special promotions. The best way to receive the biggest exclusive deals is to join our free CrabSavers email newsletter.
Why Choose Harbour House Crabs?
Over 26 Years of Experience
We’ve been shipping crabs nationwide for decades — we know how to ensure they arrive fresh and flavorful.
Freshness Guarantee
Our crabs are packed with care and shipped quickly to maintain their quality.
Options for Everyone
Five male grades from #2 jimmy to heavyweight, plus female crabs. Mix and match across an order.
Nationwide Delivery
We’re located near a major shipping hub, which means you get your crabs fast — even for last-minute celebrations.
