Crab cakes are a cherished staple in coastal cuisine, particularly famous in regions like Maryland. The Original Old Bay Crab Cakes blend the freshness of the sea with the iconic flavor of Old Bay Seasoning, offering a delightful taste experience that’s both rich and satisfying. This article walks you through how to create these delectable crab cakes at home, ensuring a perfect dish that can impress at any dining table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 slices of dried bread, crusts removed: This will help bind the cakes without overpowering the crab flavor.
- 1 tablespoon milk: Just enough to moisten the bread.
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and moisture.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Provides a tangy depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon parsley flakes: For a hint of freshness and color.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures the crab cakes are light and fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning: The star spice blend that gives these crab cakes their unique zest.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: To enhance all the flavors.
- 1 egg, beaten: Helps to keep all the ingredients together.
- 1 pound lump crabmeat: The main ingredient that should be fresh and of high quality.
- Vegetable oil for frying: For cooking the crab cakes to a perfect golden-brown.
Cooking Instructions
- Preparation of Ingredients:
- Begin by breaking the dried bread into small pieces in a large bowl. Lightly moisten these pieces with milk, which helps in binding without adding too much moisture.
- Add the mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, parsley flakes, baking powder, Old Bay Seasoning, salt, and beaten egg to the moistened bread. These ingredients work together to create a flavorful base for the crab meat.
- Forming the Crab Cakes:
- Gently fold in the lump crabmeat, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can break the delicate lumps of crab, which are essential for a chunky texture.
- Shape the mixture into four evenly sized patties. If the mixture seems too wet, you can add a little more bread crumbs to help it hold together.
- Chilling the Patties:
- Refrigerate the patties for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the crab cakes maintain their shape and prevents them from falling apart during frying.
- Cooking the Crab Cakes:
- Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the crab cakes in the pan.
- Fry them until they are golden brown on each side, usually about 4 minutes per side. Flip them carefully to ensure they cook evenly and do not break apart.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Old Bay Crab Cakes with a side of lemon wedges and tartar sauce for an extra zing. They pair wonderfully with a crisp salad or creamy coleslaw and make an excellent starter or a light main course.
Conclusion
Making Original Old Bay Crab Cakes at home is a delightful way to bring a taste of the sea to your kitchen. With their rich flavors and hearty texture, crab cakes made with Old Bay Seasoning offer a gourmet experience that is both satisfying and surprisingly simple to achieve. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, these crab cakes are sure to impress seafood lovers and spice enthusiasts alike.
