Transport yourself to the Chesapeake Bay with this Maryland crab cakes recipe. It's a beloved classic that highlights the sweet, delicate flavor of lump crab meat, perfectly seasoned and baked to a golden brown. Serve these delectable cakes with lemon wedges and a zesty remoulade sauce for an authentic taste of Maryland.
Some ingredients in this recipe might not be commonly found in every home. For example, lump crab meat is essential for authentic Maryland crab cakes, so make sure to purchase high-quality, fresh crab meat from your supermarket. Old Bay seasoning is a distinctive spice blend often used in seafood dishes and can be found in the spice aisle. Saltine crackers, used for binding, are usually located in the snack or cracker aisle.
Ingredients For Maryland Crab Cakes
Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and helps bind the ingredients together.
Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the crab cakes together.
Dijon mustard: Provides a tangy flavor that complements the crab.
Hot sauce: Adds a bit of heat to the crab cakes.
Lemon juice: Brightens the flavor with a touch of acidity.
Old Bay seasoning: A traditional spice mix that enhances the seafood flavor.
Green onions: Adds a mild onion flavor and a bit of color.
Lump crab meat: The star ingredient, providing sweet and succulent crab flavor.
Saltine crackers: Crushed to create a binder for the crab mixture.
Lemon wedges: For serving, adding a fresh citrusy touch.
Remoulade sauce: A creamy, tangy sauce that pairs perfectly with crab cakes.
Cooking spray: Used to coat the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
One reader, Anselm Kidder says:
These Maryland crab cakes are absolutely delicious! The flavors blend perfectly, and the crab meat is tender and juicy. The Old Bay seasoning adds a wonderful touch. Easy to make and a hit at our dinner party. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Making Maryland Crab Cakes
Yes.
How to whisk: Explanation on how to combine ingredients using a whisk to create a smooth mixture. How to gently stir: Explanation on how to mix ingredients carefully to avoid breaking the crab meat. How to chill: Explanation on how to refrigerate the mixture to allow it to set. How to preheat the oven: Explanation on how to set the oven to the desired temperature before baking. How to form patties: Explanation on how to shape the crab mixture into equal-sized portions. How to coat a sheet pan with cooking spray: Explanation on how to apply cooking spray to a sheet pan to prevent sticking.
How To Make Maryland Crab Cakes
Munch on some crispy and golden brown crab cakes, loaded with savory cracker crumbs and classic seasonings, for a deliciously elegant seafood dish!
Serves:
Ingredients
- ⅓cupmayonnaise
- 1egg
- 2tspdijon mustard
- ½tsphot sauce
- 1tsplemon juice
- ½tspold bay seasoning
- 2tbspgreen onions,sliced
- 1lblump crab meat
- 1cupsaltine crackers,crushed
- lemon wedges,for serving, optional
- remoulade sauce,for serving, optional
- cooking spray
Instructions
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Place the mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, hot sauce, lemon juice and Old Bay seasoning in a medium bowl. Whisk to combine. Stir in the green onions.
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Place the crab and cracker crumbs in a bowl, and gently stir to combine.
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Pour the crab mixture into the mayonnaise. Gently toss to coat.
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Cover and chill for at least 1 hour.
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Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Coat a sheet pan with cooking spray.
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Gently form the chilled crab mixture into 8 equal sized patties, at approximately ⅓ cup each.
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Place the crab cakes on the sheet pan. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
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Serve with lemon wedges and remoulade sauce, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 313.36kcal
- Fat: 19.60g
- Saturated Fat: 3.10g
- Trans Fat: 0.04g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.68g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 10.48g
- Carbohydrates: 10.12g
- Fiber: 0.72g
- Sugar: 0.50g
- Protein: 22.95g
- Cholesterol: 157.49mg
- Sodium: 915.80mg
- Calcium: 118.90mg
- Potassium: 350.81mg
- Iron: 1.58mg
- Vitamin A: 20.44µg
- Vitamin C: 8.98mg
Essential Technique Tip for Perfect Maryland Crab Cakes
When forming the crab cakes, be sure to handle the mixture gently to avoid breaking up the delicate lump crab meat. This will help maintain the texture and ensure that each bite is filled with succulent crab. Additionally, chilling the mixture for at least an hour before shaping the patties helps them hold together better during baking.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Crab Cakes
Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix the mayonnaise, dijon mustard, and other wet ingredients ahead of time.
Use pre-crushed crackers: Save time by using pre-crushed saltine crackers or crush them in bulk and store for later use.
Chill efficiently: Place the crab mixture in the freezer for 30 minutes instead of the fridge for an hour to speed up the chilling process.
Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven while forming the crab cakes to ensure it's ready when you are.
Use a food processor: Quickly chop green onions and other ingredients using a food processor.
Substitute Ingredients For Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor while being lower in fat.
egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water mixture: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water to create a binding agent similar to an egg.
dijon mustard - Substitute with yellow mustard: Yellow mustard can provide a similar tangy flavor, though it is slightly milder.
hot sauce - Substitute with cayenne pepper: A pinch of cayenne pepper can add the necessary heat without altering the consistency of the mixture.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor.
old bay seasoning - Substitute with cajun seasoning: Cajun seasoning provides a similar blend of spices, though it may be slightly spicier.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
lump crab meat - Substitute with imitation crab meat: Imitation crab meat can be used as a budget-friendly alternative, though the flavor will be less authentic.
saltine crackers - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a similar crunchy texture and can be used in the same amount.
lemon wedges - Substitute with lime wedges: Lime wedges offer a similar citrusy burst of flavor when served on the side.
remoulade sauce - Substitute with tartar sauce: Tartar sauce provides a similar creamy and tangy accompaniment for the crab cakes.
cooking spray - Substitute with olive oil: Brushing olive oil on the cooking surface can prevent sticking and add a bit of extra flavor.
Best Way to Present Crab Cakes
Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that the lump crab meat is fresh and of the highest quality. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the crab cakes.
Shape uniformly: Form the crab mixture into perfectly round, even-sized patties. This ensures uniform cooking and a professional appearance.
Chill thoroughly: After forming the patties, chill them for at least an hour. This helps them hold their shape during cooking and allows the flavors to meld together.
Bake to perfection: Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F and bake the crab cakes until they are golden brown and cooked through. This high temperature ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist.
Plate with precision: Place the crab cakes on a pristine white plate to make the colors pop. Use a small offset spatula to ensure they are perfectly positioned.
Garnish elegantly: Add a few lemon wedges artfully around the crab cakes. This not only adds a burst of color but also provides a fresh citrus note that complements the dish.
Serve with remoulade sauce: Place a small dollop of remoulade sauce beside each crab cake. Use a squeeze bottle for precise application, creating a visually appealing presentation.
Add microgreens: Top each crab cake with a small tuft of microgreens. This adds a touch of elegance and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Finish with a drizzle: Lightly drizzle a bit of lemon juice over the crab cakes just before serving. This adds a final layer of flavor and a glossy finish.
Serve immediately: Ensure the crab cakes are served hot, straight from the oven. This maintains their crispiness and ensures the best dining experience.
Essential Tools for Making Maryland Crab Cakes
Medium bowl: Used to mix the mayonnaise, egg, dijon mustard, hot sauce, lemon juice, and old bay seasoning.
Whisk: Essential for combining the wet ingredients smoothly.
Spatula: Helps in gently folding the crab and cracker mixture into the mayonnaise mixture.
Measuring cups: Ensures precise measurement of ingredients like mayonnaise and lemon juice.
Measuring spoons: Used for accurate measurement of smaller quantities like dijon mustard, hot sauce, and old bay seasoning.
Knife: Needed to finely chop the green onions.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the green onions.
Refrigerator: Used to chill the crab mixture for at least 1 hour.
Oven: Preheated to 450 degrees F for baking the crab cakes.
Sheet pan: Used to place the crab cakes for baking.
Cooking spray: Coats the sheet pan to prevent the crab cakes from sticking.
Measuring cup (1/3 cup): Helps in portioning the crab mixture into equal-sized patties.
Serving plate: Used to present the crab cakes with lemon wedges and remoulade sauce.
How To Store and Freeze Crab Cakes
To store leftover crab cakes, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the crab cakes, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the crab cakes to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen crab cakes, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen crab cakes on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside. Alternatively, you can thaw the crab cakes in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a little bit of cooking spray or oil until warmed through and crispy.
If you have uncooked crab cake mixture, you can shape it into patties and freeze them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer the patties to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating each layer with parchment paper. When ready to cook, thaw the patties in the refrigerator overnight and then bake or fry them according to the recipe instructions.
How To Reheat Leftover Crab Cakes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the crab cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Lightly brush the tops with a bit of olive oil or melted butter to help them crisp up. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the edges are slightly crispy.
For a quicker option, you can reheat the crab cakes in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the crab meat to become rubbery.
If you have an air fryer, this is a great way to reheat your crab cakes while maintaining their crispy exterior. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the crab cakes in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
For a stovetop method, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the crab cakes and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and heated through.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your reheated crab cakes, try squeezing a little fresh lemon juice over the top or serving them with a side of remoulade sauce or tartar sauce.
Random Fact about Maryland Crab Cakes
A random fact about this Maryland crab cakes recipe is that it traditionally uses Old Bay seasoning, a spice blend that originated in Baltimore, Maryland. This seasoning is a staple in many seafood dishes and adds a distinctive flavor to the crab cakes.
Is Making Crab Cakes at Home Economical?
The Maryland crab cakes recipe is moderately cost-effective. The primary expense is the lump crab meat, which can be pricey. However, the other ingredients like mayonnaise, green onions, and saltine crackers are relatively inexpensive. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $25-$30. Overall Verdict: 7/10.
Are Maryland Crab Cakes Healthy or Unhealthy?
The Maryland crab cakes recipe, while delicious, has some aspects that could be considered unhealthy. The main concerns are:
- High in fat due to the mayonnaise and egg
- Saltine crackers are made from refined flour and provide little nutritional value
- Frying the crab cakes in oil adds extra fat and calories
However, there are also some positive aspects:
- Crab meat is a lean protein source and provides essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids
- The recipe includes some vegetables (green onions) and seasonings that add flavor without excessive salt or sugar
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or avocado for a lower-fat, nutrient-dense option
- Use whole-grain crackers or breadcrumbs instead of saltines to increase fiber content
- Bake the crab cakes instead of frying them to reduce the amount of added fat
- Incorporate more vegetables into the mixture, such as finely diced bell peppers or carrots, to boost the nutrient profile
- Serve the crab cakes with a side salad or roasted vegetables to create a balanced meal
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the flavors of Maryland crab cakes while supporting a healthier lifestyle. Remember, moderation is key, and even with these modifications, it's essential to be mindful of portion sizes.
Editor's Thoughts on This Classic Maryland Dish
This Maryland crab cakes recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The use of Old Bay seasoning and Dijon mustard adds a classic touch, while the hot sauce and lemon juice provide a zesty kick. The saltine crackers offer a subtle crunch, complementing the tender lump crab meat. Chilling the mixture ensures the cakes hold their shape, and baking at a high temperature achieves a perfect golden crust. Serving with lemon wedges and remoulade sauce enhances the overall experience. This recipe is well-balanced and sure to impress seafood lovers.
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Why trust this Maryland Crab Cakes Recipe:
This Maryland crab cakes recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers. The blend of lump crab meat and saltine crackers creates a perfect texture, while the Old Bay seasoning adds an authentic touch. The mayonnaise and dijon mustard mixture ensures each bite is flavorful and moist. Chilling the mixture allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Baking at a high temperature ensures a golden, crispy exterior. Serve with lemon wedges and remoulade sauce for a delightful finish. Trust this recipe for a taste of Maryland's finest!
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