Indulge in the culinary charm of New Orleans with a delightful recipe that captures the vibrant essence of Cajun cuisine: Stuffed Crabs. This dish, perfect for a special dinner or a festive gathering, brings together the flavors of fresh crabmeat and a medley of aromatic vegetables, all embraced by a creamy, flavorful mixture. Follow this detailed guide to recreate an authentic taste of the Big Easy right in your own kitchen.
Stuffed Crabs (New Orleans Style)
Description
Make and share this Stuffed Crabs (New Orleans) recipe from lovewithrecipes.com. This delightful dish is a wonderful example of Cajun cooking and is perfect for any occasion, especially when you’re in the mood for something that is both elegant and comforting.
Recipe Category
Crab
Keywords
Cajun, < 30 Mins
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 189
- Fat Content: 11.2g
- Saturated Fat Content: 6.3g
- Cholesterol Content: 95.2mg
- Sodium Content: 502.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 10.8g
- Fiber Content: 0.8g
- Sugar Content: 1.6g
- Protein Content: 11.3g
Recipe Yield
12 crab shells
Ingredients
- 1 butter
- 6 eggs
- 1/4 cup green onion, chopped
- 3 bell peppers, chopped
- 1/2 cup garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pepper
- Cayenne pepper to taste
- Evaporated milk (quantity not specified)
- Worcestershire sauce (quantity not specified)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- Buns (quantity not specified)
- Bread crumbs for topping
Instructions
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Prepare the Milk and Egg Mixture:
- Soak buns in a mixture of milk and eggs. Ensure the buns are fully saturated as this will form the base of your stuffing mixture.
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Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a heavy pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, celery, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot.
- Sauté the vegetables until they are wilted, releasing their aromas and becoming tender. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
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Add Seasonings and Crabmeat:
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and the crabmeat.
- Season the mixture to taste with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. The cayenne adds a quintessential Cajun kick, so adjust according to your preference for heat.
- Continue cooking over medium heat for about 15 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking and to blend the flavors well.
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Incorporate the Green Onions:
- Add the chopped green onions to the pot. Green onions will add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a splash of color to the mixture.
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Combine with Buns:
- Add the soaked buns to the pot. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed. The buns will absorb the flavors and help bind the stuffing together.
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Stuff the Crab Shells:
- Carefully stuff the prepared mixture into artificial crab shells. Make sure each shell is generously filled.
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Prepare for Baking:
- Sprinkle the tops of the stuffed crab shells with bread crumbs. This will create a delightful, crispy topping once baked.
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Bake the Stuffed Crabs:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the stuffed crab shells on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Crabmeat Quality: For the best flavor, use fresh lump crabmeat if available. Ensure it is well-picked over for any shell fragments.
- Artificial Crab Shells: If you cannot find artificial crab shells, you can use small, oven-safe ramekins as an alternative.
- Bread Substitutes: Instead of buns, you can use stale French bread or breadcrumbs soaked in the milk and egg mixture for a slightly different texture.
- Additional Flavors: For added depth, consider incorporating a splash of dry white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice into the crab mixture.
- Garnishing: Fresh parsley or chives can be sprinkled over the baked stuffed crabs before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful stuffed crabs as an appetizer or a main course. They pair beautifully with a crisp green salad, a side of creamy coleslaw, or a bowl of hearty gumbo for an authentic New Orleans feast. A glass of chilled white wine or a cold beer can complement the rich flavors perfectly.
Review and Ratings
- Aggregated Rating: 5 stars
- Review Count: 3 reviews
Reviewers have praised the recipe for its authentic taste and the simplicity of its preparation, making it a go-to for both special occasions and weeknight dinners. The balance of spices and the richness of the crabmeat make it a standout dish that captures the spirit of New Orleans cuisine.
Culinary History and Cultural Significance
Stuffed crabs, also known as deviled crabs, have a storied place in the culinary traditions of coastal regions, particularly in Louisiana. This dish is a testament to the resourcefulness of Cajun and Creole cooks who often used whatever ingredients were at hand to create flavorful, hearty meals. The stuffing mixture, rich with local spices and ingredients, showcases the bold, vibrant flavors that are synonymous with New Orleans cooking.
In New Orleans, seafood is a staple, reflecting the city’s location along the Gulf of Mexico. Dishes like stuffed crabs celebrate the abundance of fresh seafood available in the region, and the use of cayenne pepper and Worcestershire sauce adds a distinctive Cajun flair. This recipe not only pays homage to the cultural heritage of the area but also highlights the importance of using fresh, local ingredients to create dishes that are both delicious and reflective of the local cuisine.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
This stuffed crabs recipe, while rich and flavorful, also provides several nutritional benefits. Crabmeat is a great source of protein and contains essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. The use of a variety of vegetables in the stuffing adds fiber and essential nutrients, contributing to a balanced meal. However, due to its high sodium and cholesterol content, it is advisable to enjoy this dish in moderation, especially for those monitoring their intake of these nutrients.
Conclusion
Stuffed Crabs (New Orleans) is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary journey to the heart of Cajun country. With its blend of rich crabmeat, aromatic vegetables, and a touch of spice, it promises a taste experience that is both satisfying and unforgettable. Whether you’re preparing it for a festive occasion or simply to enjoy the flavors of New Orleans at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the process of creating this delightful dish, and savor every bite of its authentic Cajun goodness.
