Original Old Bay Crab Cakes
Introduction
If you love seafood, then you must try these Original Old Bay Crab Cakes. They bring a taste of the shore right to your kitchen! Full of fresh lump crab meat and seasoned perfectly with Old Bay, these crab cakes are a delicious treat that everyone will enjoy.
Why Make This Recipe
Making these crab cakes at home is easier than you think! You can control what goes into them, ensuring that you have a fresh and tasty dish without any preservatives. Plus, they are perfect for special occasions or a lovely dinner at home. Serve them with your favorite sauce, and they will be the star of your meal!
How to Make Original Old Bay Crab Cakes
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 crab meat, mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and crushed saltine crackers or breadcrumbs. Mix gently to combine without breaking up the crab meat too much.
- If desired, fold in the chopped parsley for added flavor.
- Shape the mixture into patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to help them set.
- Heat vegetable oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the crab cakes in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
How to Serve Original Old Bay Crab Cakes
These crab cakes are best served warm. You can enjoy them plain, or pair them with a tangy sauce like tartar or spicy remoulade. Adding a simple salad or some lemon wedges on the side can make your meal even better!
How to Store Original Old Bay Crab Cakes
If you have leftovers, store your crab cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. You can also freeze them before frying. Just ensure they are well-wrapped, and they can last in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Tips to Make Original Old Bay Crab Cakes
- Handle the crab meat gently to keep chunks big. This will give your crab cakes a great texture.
- Adjust the Old Bay seasoning to your taste. If you like it spicier, don’t be shy!
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the crab cakes to achieve that golden crust.
Variation
For a twist, you can add diced bell peppers or onions to the mixture for extra flavor. Another option is to use cooked shrimp instead of crab meat for a different seafood experience.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned crab meat?
Yes, you can use canned crab meat, but fresh crab meat provides a better flavor and texture.
2. Can I bake these crab cakes instead of frying?
Absolutely! For a healthier option, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden.
3. Are crab cakes gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of saltine crackers, then yes, they can be gluten-free!
Enjoy making and sharing these delicious Original Old Bay Crab Cakes with family and friends!
