Original Old Bay Crab Cakes

Why Make This Recipe

Crab cakes are a delightful dish that brings the taste of the sea right to your kitchen. The Original Old Bay Crab Cakes stand out because of their unique blend of flavors and the satisfying texture of crab meat. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, looking for a special weekend meal, or just want a tasty treat, these crab cakes are sure to impress. Plus, they’re easy to make, making them a great choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

How to Make Original Old Bay Crab Cakes

Ingredients

• 1 lb lump crab meat (picked over for shells)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
• 1/4 cup finely crushed saltine crackers or breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Vegetable oil or butter, for frying

Directions

1. Prepare the crab mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and parsley. Gently fold in the crab meat and crushed crackers. Avoid overmixing to keep the crab meat intact. (About 10 minutes)
2. Form and chill the crab cakes: Shape the mixture into 6 to 8 patties, about 3/4 inch thick. Place on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm them up.
3. Fry to golden perfection: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add enough oil or butter to lightly coat the bottom. Cook crab cakes in batches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden and cooked through.
4. Serve and enjoy: Plate warm with lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or an extra sprinkle of Old Bay seasoning if desired.

How to Serve Original Old Bay Crab Cakes

These crab cakes can be served as an appetizer or a main dish. Pair them with lemon wedges for a refreshing taste, or serve alongside tartar sauce for dipping. They also work well with a side salad or some roasted vegetables for a full meal.

How to Store Original Old Bay Crab Cakes

If you have leftover crab cakes, you can store them in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container and keep them for up to 2 days. To enjoy them later, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Tips to Make Original Old Bay Crab Cakes

• Make sure to pick through the crab meat thoroughly to remove any shells.
• Chilling the crab cakes before frying helps them hold their shape better.
• Use fresh crab meat if possible for the best flavor.
• Don’t skip the Old Bay seasoning; it adds a unique flavor that’s key to this recipe.

Variation

For a twist on the classic recipe, you can add diced bell peppers or onions to the mixture. You could also experiment with different seasoning blends if you want to switch up the flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use imitation crab meat instead of real crab?
   Yes, you can use imitation crab meat, but the taste and texture will be different compared to using real lump crab meat.

2. Can I bake the crab cakes instead of frying them?
   Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden on top.

3. What can I serve with crab cakes?
   Crab cakes pair well with a variety of sides, including coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh green salad.