Description
Coastal Maryland’s signature “Chesapeake Charm Crab Cakes” blend classic seaside flavors with unexpected culinary magic. Delicate lump crab meat mingles with zesty herbs, promising oceanic delight that will transport you straight to sunlit waterfront restaurants.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) lump crab meat, picked over for shells
Binding and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Texture and Finishing Ingredients:
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter, for frying
Instructions
- Delicately blend premium crab meat with a harmonious mix of creamy mayonnaise, whisked egg, zesty Dijon mustard, and tangy Worcestershire sauce in a spacious mixing bowl.
- Sprinkle Old Bay seasoning, freshly ground black pepper, and finely chopped parsley into the mixture, creating a complex flavor profile that complements the delicate crab meat.
- Gently fold in breadcrumbs and a splash of bright lemon juice, carefully maintaining the crab meat’s natural texture by avoiding excessive mixing.
- Using clean hands, craft uniform patties approximately three inches in diameter, ensuring each cake holds together with a gentle touch.
- Refrigerate the formed crab cakes for a minimum of 15 minutes, allowing them to solidify and prevent potential disintegration during cooking.
- Warm a skillet over medium heat, introducing a rich pat of butter and allowing it to melt and create a golden, slightly foaming surface.
- Carefully place the chilled crab cakes into the skillet, leaving adequate space between each to ensure even browning and crisp edges.
- Cook each side for 4-5 minutes, watching for a gorgeous golden-brown crust that signals perfect doneness and interior warmth.
- Transfer the finished crab cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess cooking fat, preserving their delicate texture and flavor.
Notes
- Gentle mixing is key to maintaining the delicate texture of the crab meat, ensuring each bite remains chunky and succulent.
- Refrigerating the crab cakes before cooking helps them hold their shape and prevents crumbling during the searing process.
- Use fresh, high-quality lump crab meat for the most authentic Maryland-style flavor and best possible texture.
- The combination of Old Bay seasoning and Dijon mustard creates a classic, zesty flavor profile that elevates the traditional crab cake.
- Butter provides a rich, golden-brown crust while adding depth to the overall taste of the crab cakes.
- Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the crispy exterior and warm, tender interior at its absolute best.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 90mg