Description
This simple crab cake recipe features fresh lump crab meat combined with a flavorful blend of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and Old Bay seasoning, gently mixed with celery and panko breadcrumbs. Chilled and pan-fried to golden perfection, these crab cakes make an elegant appetizer or main dish, served with fresh lemon and your favorite sauce.
Ingredients
Crab Cake Mixture
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup (55g) mayonnaise
- 1½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1 small rib celery, minced (about ¼ cup minced)
- 1 pound (452g) fresh lump crab meat
- ½ cup (40g) panko breadcrumbs
- Butter (for frying, about 1-2 tablespoons)
- Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)
For Frying
Instructions
- Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and minced celery. Add the fresh lump crab meat and panko breadcrumbs. Gently fold everything together just until combined to avoid breaking up the crab meat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and make shaping easier.
- Form patties and heat skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Form the chilled crab mixture into 6 large, evenly sized patties, being careful to handle them gently to maintain lumps of crab meat. Melt a small amount of butter in the skillet to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Fry the crab cakes: Place the patties in the heated skillet and fry for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, or until the crab cakes are golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.
- Serve immediately: Once cooked, carefully transfer the crab cakes to a serving plate. Serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges and your choice of sauce, such as tartar sauce or remoulade, for a delicious appetizer or main course.
Notes
- Use fresh lump crab meat for the best texture and flavor.
- Chilling the mixture before cooking helps the patties hold together during frying.
- If desired, add additional seasoning such as cayenne pepper or parsley for extra flavor.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on skillet and stove heat; adjust accordingly to avoid burning.
- For a gluten-free variation, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
