Are you craving a delicious, yet easy-to-make seafood dish? Look no further! This recipe for Dungeness crab cakes will transport you to the stunning shores of the Pacific Northwest with every bite. Forget those bland, dry crab cakes you've had before – these are bursting with succulent crab flavor, perfectly seasoned, and delightfully crispy on the outside. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a sophisticated appetizer, or a memorable weekend brunch. Get ready to experience the best homemade crab cakes you've ever tasted!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Dungeness crab meat, picked over for shells (fresh or high-quality frozen)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
Get started: Gently combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, Dijon mustard, egg, flour, Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the crab cakes tough.
Shape the cakes: Gently fold in the bread crumbs. Using a spoon or your hands (lightly oiled), shape the mixture into 4-6 patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
Pan-fry to perfection: Heat the butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the crab cakes in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Serve and enjoy: Serve immediately with lemon wedges. These crab cakes are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a side of creamy coleslaw, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Tips for the Best Crab Cakes:
- Don't overmix: Overmixing the crab cake mixture will result in tough crab cakes. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined.
- Use high-quality crab meat: The quality of your crab meat will significantly impact the flavor of your crab cakes. Opt for fresh Dungeness crab meat whenever possible.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference. You can add more Old Bay seasoning, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy crab cakes. Cook in batches to ensure even browning.
Variations:
- Spicy Crab Cakes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herby Crab Cakes: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill for an extra layer of flavor.
- Creamy Crab Cakes: Add a tablespoon or two of sour cream or crème fraîche to the mixture for extra richness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the exact ingredients and serving size. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredient quantities. However, a general estimate for a medium-sized crab cake might be:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This recipe for Dungeness crab cakes is a true culinary delight. It's easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner cook, you'll be able to create these impressive and flavorful crab cakes with ease. Enjoy!