Are you looking for a quick, elegant, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for a party or a satisfying weeknight meal? Look no further! These mini crab cakes are the answer. They're surprisingly easy to make, bursting with fresh crab flavor, and can be customized to your liking. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you to crab cake perfection. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these delightful little bites of deliciousness!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter, for cooking
- Lemon wedges and fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
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Prep the Crab: Gently pick through the crab meat to remove any remaining shell fragments. This is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable texture.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the crab meat, mayonnaise, red onion, celery, egg, bread crumbs, Dijon mustard, Old Bay seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the crab cakes tough.
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Shape the Cakes: Using a tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop, form the mixture into small, 1-inch patties.
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Cook the Cakes: Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the crab cakes in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the mini crab cakes immediately. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for an extra touch of elegance. These are delicious served as an appetizer, or with a side salad for a light and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Mini Crab Cakes:
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the crab cake mixture can result in tough crab cakes. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined.
- Gentle Handling: Be gentle when handling the crab meat to avoid breaking it up too much.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add more Old Bay for a spicier kick, or more lemon juice for brightness.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a wonderfully crispy texture. However, regular breadcrumbs will work fine too.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the pan will prevent the crab cakes from browning properly. Cook them in batches if necessary.
Variations:
- Spicy Crab Cakes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Crab Cakes: Incorporate fresh herbs like chives, dill, or parsley for added flavor and aroma.
- Cream Cheese Crab Cakes: Add a tablespoon or two of softened cream cheese to the mixture for extra richness and moisture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 8-12g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
These mini crab cakes are a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire. They are quick, easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the process of creating these healthy and flavorful meals, and savor every bite!