Little Bay Crab Cakes
Description
These delectable Little Bay Crab Cakes are a cherished family recipe, passed down from my mother, who crafted her own cookbook filled with love and culinary treasures. The moment you take a bite, you’ll understand why these crab cakes are regarded as the best ever, boasting a perfect balance of flavors that are both vibrant and satisfying. Ideal for a quick meal or an impressive appetizer, they capture the essence of seafood indulgence while remaining healthy.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Crab meat | 1 cup |
| Onion | ¼ cup |
| Bell pepper | ¼ cup |
| Cayenne pepper | 3 dashes |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Cream cheese | 1 oz |
| Mustard | 2 tbsp |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Mayonnaise | 1 tbsp |
| Bread crumbs | ½ cup |
| Cooking oil | For frying |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 385.6 kcal |
| Total Fat | 9.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 38.1 mg |
| Sodium | 1263.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 47.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.2 g |
| Sugars | 4.7 g |
| Protein | 25.4 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Crab Mixture
Begin by draining all excess water from the crab meat to ensure the cakes do not become soggy. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the crab meat, finely chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and half of the bread crumbs. Mix these ingredients thoroughly, being careful not to break apart the crab too much to maintain its texture.
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Create the Creamy Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream cheese, a hint of tarragon, salt, and cayenne pepper. Add the mustard, egg, and mayonnaise, blending until you achieve a smooth consistency. This mixture will provide a rich, flavorful base that complements the sweetness of the crab. -
Combine and Refrigerate
Once the cream mixture is well combined, gently fold it into the crab mixture, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 15 minutes, or up to 45 minutes if you have the time. This step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and helps the cakes hold their shape during cooking. -
Prepare for Cooking
Preheat your skillet over medium heat, adding a generous amount of cooking oil. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, pour the remaining bread crumbs to create a coating station for the crab cakes. Using a spoon (or an ice cream scoop for larger cakes), drop spoonfuls of the crab mixture into the bread crumbs, ensuring that they are evenly coated on all sides. -
Form and Cook the Crab Cakes
Carefully form the mixture into patties, taking care to maintain their shape and ensure that each cake is well-covered in bread crumbs. When your skillet is hot, gently place the crab cakes into the oil, cooking them until they turn a golden brown, which should take approximately 3-4 minutes on each side. It’s best to turn them only once to avoid breaking. -
Maintain Oil Quality
If you notice that the oil begins to darken or becomes filled with crumbs, it’s essential to wipe the skillet clean and add fresh oil to maintain the integrity of the cakes and ensure they cook evenly. -
Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, transfer the crab cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm with a squeeze of lemon or your favorite dipping sauce for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Cooking Tips
- For a spicier kick, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper.
- These crab cakes can also be baked in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for a healthier option, simply drizzle a bit of olive oil over them before baking for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Pair these delightful crab cakes with a crisp salad or a zesty coleslaw for a balanced meal.
This recipe yields approximately 4-6 crab cakes, perfect for a small gathering or a lovely family dinner. Enjoy the process of making these cherished crab cakes, and relish the compliments that are sure to follow!
