Classic Crab Cakes

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Classic Crab Cakes bring a taste of the ocean straight to your kitchen, offering a delightful blend of fresh crab meat and zesty seasonings. Perfect for a special dinner or a casual gathering, these crab cakes are sure to impress with their rich flavor and satisfying crunch.

Ingredients for Classic Crab Cakes

Crab meat is the star of the show, providing a sweet, delicate flavor that's both light and luxurious. Mayonnaise adds creaminess and helps bind the mixture together. Green onions bring a mild oniony taste that complements the crab without overpowering it. Red bell pepper adds a pop of color and subtle sweetness, balancing the savory notes. Egg acts as a binder to hold everything together. Dijon mustard introduces a hint of tangy spice that elevates the overall flavor. Worcestershire sauce adds depth and umami, while Old Bay seasoning provides that classic seafood flavor. Breadcrumbs give structure and a crispy crust, and a pinch of salt and pepper enhances every taste. Finally, olive oil is used for frying, giving the cakes a golden, crispy finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use fresh, high-quality crab meat for the best flavor and texture.
  • Chill the crab mixture for 30 minutes before shaping to help the patties hold together better.
  • If the mixture is too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs to help bind it.
  • Don't overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if needed to maintain oil temperature.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your classic crab cakes with a fresh green salad and a tangy lemon aioli for dipping. They also go beautifully with roasted asparagus or a light coleslaw. For a more substantial meal, serve them on a toasted brioche bun with lettuce and tomato for a delicious crab cake sandwich.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes, but fresh crab meat will give you the best flavor and texture.
How do I store leftover crab cakes?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop to maintain crispiness.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and heated through.

Classic Crab Cakes Recipe Walkthrough

Start by gathering all your ingredients, making sure the crab meat is fresh and free of any shells. In a large bowl, gently combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, green onions, red bell pepper, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, breadcrumbs, a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a fork or your hands to mix until just combined, being careful not to break up the crab too much.

Once everything is mixed, divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and gently shape them into patties. Try to keep them around 1/2 inch thick to ensure even cooking. Place them on a plate or tray as you go.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want the oil to shimmer slightly before adding the crab cakes to ensure a good sear. Carefully place the patties in the skillet, cooking them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry each cake for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes, or until both sides are golden brown and crispy.

Once cooked, transfer the crab cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This will help keep them crisp. Serve them hot and enjoy the delicate flavors and satisfying crunch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to prepare with simple, fresh ingredients.
  • Delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
  • Versatile enough for a fancy dinner or casual brunch.
  • Quick to cook, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

1 lb fresh crab meat
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
1 large egg
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Old Bay seasoning
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil for frying

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, green onions, red bell pepper, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into 8 equal-sized patties.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
4. Fry the crab cakes for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Serve hot with your choice of sauce or garnish.

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