Are you craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices or lengthy prep time? Then look no further! This crab cake recipe, enhanced with the delightful flavors of McCormick spices, is your answer. It's a simple, healthy meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a sophisticated weekend brunch. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unbelievably easy and delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (we recommend using Duke's or another creamy brand)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup McCormick bread crumbs (panko also works great!)
- 1 tablespoon McCormick Old Bay Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon McCormick garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon McCormick paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon McCormick black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crab Meat: Gently pick through the crab meat to remove any remaining shells. This step is crucial for a smooth, enjoyable texture.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, onion, bell pepper, egg, bread crumbs, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Avoid overmixing; you want to keep the crab meat relatively intact for a better texture.
- Shape the Cakes: Using a spoon or your hands (lightly oiled), form the mixture into 4-6 patties, about 3/4 inch thick.
- Cook the Crab Cakes: Heat the butter or 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; you may need to cook the crab cakes in batches.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the crab cakes immediately. They're delightful on their own, or try pairing them with lemon wedges, aioli, tartar sauce, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Crab Cakes:
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the crab cake mixture will make the cakes tough. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined.
- Chill the Mixture (Optional): For easier handling and to prevent the cakes from falling apart, you can chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of seasoning to your liking. Start with less and add more as needed.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the temperature and result in steamed, rather than pan-fried, crab cakes.
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 finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill for an added 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 crab cake, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This McCormick crab cake recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea that's sure to become a family favorite, showcasing the best of homemade cooking and delicious dishes. Enjoy!