Original Old Bay Crab Cakes
Introduction
Crab cakes are a delicious seafood dish that many people love. They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The Original Old Bay Crab Cakes bring together the freshness of crab meat and the unique flavor of Old Bay seasoning. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for a tasty appetizer or main dish.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Original Old Bay Crab Cakes. First, they highlight the sweet and delicate taste of crab meat. Second, the Old Bay seasoning adds a hint of spice that elevates the flavor. Lastly, they are easy to prepare at home and can impress your family and friends at any gathering.
How to Make Original Old Bay Crab Cakes
Making Original Old Bay Crab Cakes is simple and fun! Just follow the steps below.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
- 1/4 cup finely crushed saltine crackers or breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Vegetable oil or butter, for frying
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the lump crab meat, mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and crushed saltine crackers or breadcrumbs.
- Mix gently to combine.
- If you want, fold in the chopped parsley.
- Form the mixture into patties.
- Heat vegetable oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the crab cakes for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
- Serve warm.
How to Serve Original Old Bay Crab Cakes
You can serve Original Old Bay Crab Cakes with a squeeze of lemon juice for added zest. They pair well with tartar sauce, remoulade, or even a simple salad. These crab cakes are perfect for family dinners or parties!
How to Store Original Old Bay Crab Cakes
If you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge. Place the crab cakes in an airtight container and keep them for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Tips to Make Original Old Bay Crab Cakes
- Be gentle when mixing the ingredients to keep the crab meat lumps intact.
- Chilling the patties for 30 minutes before cooking can help them hold together better while frying.
- Use fresh crab meat for the best flavor, but canned crab meat can work in a pinch.
Variation
You can add other ingredients to the crab cakes for different flavors. For example, try adding diced red bell peppers or green onions for a colorful and tasty twist.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze crab cakes?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked crab cakes. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, move them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked from frozen.
2. What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise.
3. Can I bake the crab cakes instead of frying them?
Yes! Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the crab cakes on a greased baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, flipping them halfway through.
Now, you are all set to make delicious Original Old Bay Crab Cakes! Enjoy your cooking!