Maryland Crab Cakes

There’s something undeniably satisfying about the aroma of frying crab cakes wafting through the kitchen. When I think of Maryland Crab Cakes, I’m transported to summers spent along the Chesapeake Bay, where fresh crab was abundant and the sun warmed my skin. I remember my grandmother’s kitchen filled with laughter as she expertly crafted these delicate cakes, teaching me to combine the freshest ingredients for the ultimate seafood experience. Each bite was a little piece of paradise, crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, bursting with flavor. Today, I hope to share that joy with you, as we recreate this classic dish in our own homes.

Shopping List for Maryland Crab Cakes

When crafting the perfect Maryland Crab Cakes, the ingredients play a significant role in achieving that authentic flavor and texture. Each ingredient complements the others beautifully, making for a dish that’s not only flavorful but also satisfying. Key players like jumbo lump crab and Old Bay seasoning are essential for that classic taste.

• 1 pound jumbo lump crab
• 1 large egg
• 1 ½ teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
• 1 ½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon finely minced parsley
• 1 cup buttered cracker breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup oil
• 1 cup béchamel sauce
• 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
• 2 teaspoons whole grain mustard

Cooking Instructions for Maryland Crab Cakes

Making Maryland Crab Cakes is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with the aroma of the sea. Follow these steps to create your own batch of delicious crab cakes.

1. Begin by gently combining the jumbo lump crab, egg, Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and 2/3 cup of the cracker crumbs in a large mixing bowl. Make sure to mix everything together thoroughly, but do it gently to keep the crab meat intact. This is the heart of your Maryland Crab Cakes.
2. Once combined, take a scoop of the mixture and roll it into a tight ball. Gently press down on the ball to flatten it slightly. You’ll want to form six crab cakes in total, ensuring they’re roughly the same size for even cooking.
3. Next, coat each crab cake in the remaining cracker crumbs. This will give them a lovely, crispy exterior when cooked. Place the coated crab cakes on a plate or a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper to keep them from sticking.
4. In a large frying pan, pour in the oil and heat it over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when you can feel the warmth radiating from the pan.
5. Carefully add the crab cakes to the hot oil, spacing them out to ensure they’re not touching. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are heated through. Keep an eye on them, as you want that perfect crispiness without burning.
6. Once cooked, remove the crab cakes from the pan and let them drain on a rack or paper towels. This step is important as it helps get rid of any excess oil.
7. While the crab cakes are resting, it’s time to prepare the béchamel sauce. Heat 1 cup of béchamel sauce in a sauté pan until it’s hot. Gradually whisk in the yellow mustard and whole grain mustard until everything is well combined. This creamy sauce will be a delightful accompaniment to your crab cakes.
8. Serve your Maryland Crab Cakes alongside the mustard béchamel sauce, drizzling it over the cakes or serving it on the side. Optionally, garnish the cakes with some chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Creating the perfect Maryland Crab Cakes can be enhanced with a few expert tips. Here are some pointers to elevate your cooking experience:

• Storage: Store leftover crab cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350 degrees for about 3 to 4 minutes.
• Freezing: Crab cakes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Pairing: These crab cakes go wonderfully with a fresh salad or a light dipping sauce, such as tartar sauce or a lemon aioli.
• Quality Ingredients: Always opt for fresh, high-quality crab meat. This will make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
• Serve with Style: Consider serving the crab cakes alongside a vibrant coleslaw or a zesty remoulade for a colorful and flavorful presentation.

Perfect Pairings for Maryland Crab Cakes

When it comes to serving Maryland Crab Cakes, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to make your meal unforgettable:

• Fresh Salads: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the crab cakes beautifully.
• Side Dishes: Pair with flavorful side dishes such as roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.
• Occasions: These crab cakes are perfect for casual dinners, festive gatherings, or even special occasions like anniversaries.
• Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy them during summer barbecues or seaside picnics, where the fresh flavors shine the brightest.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them for future enjoyment.
• Garnishes: Consider topping with a dollop of homemade tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon for an extra burst of flavor.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Maryland Crab Cakes are a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the Chesapeake Bay right to your table. With their crispy exterior and tender inside, these crab cakes are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering. I encourage you to try making them at home; you won’t regret the deliciousness that ensues. Gather your ingredients and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!

Maryland Crab Cakes

Craving something delicious? Discover the ultimate comfort food with Maryland Crab Cakes. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these cakes are packed with flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a taste of the Chesapeake that you won't be able to resist!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 minutes mins

Total Time 18 minutes mins

Course Appetizers, Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound jumbo lump crab
• 1 large egg
• 1.5 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning
• 1.5 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon finely minced parsley
• 1 cup buttered cracker breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup oil
• 1 cup béchamel sauce
• 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
• 2 teaspoons whole grain mustard

Instructions

 

• Begin by gently combining the jumbo lump crab, egg, Old Bay seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and 2/3 cup of the cracker crumbs in a large mixing bowl. Make sure to mix everything together thoroughly, but do it gently to keep the crab meat intact. This is the heart of your Maryland Crab Cakes.
• Once combined, take a scoop of the mixture and roll it into a tight ball. Gently press down on the ball to flatten it slightly. You’ll want to form six crab cakes in total, ensuring they’re roughly the same size for even cooking.
• Next, coat each crab cake in the remaining cracker crumbs. This will give them a lovely, crispy exterior when cooked. Place the coated crab cakes on a plate or a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper to keep them from sticking.
• In a large frying pan, pour in the oil and heat it over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when you can feel the warmth radiating from the pan.
• Carefully add the crab cakes to the hot oil, spacing them out to ensure they’re not touching. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are heated through. Keep an eye on them, as you want that perfect crispiness without burning.
• Once cooked, remove the crab cakes from the pan and let them drain on a rack or paper towels. This step is important as it helps get rid of any excess oil.
• While the crab cakes are resting, it's time to prepare the béchamel sauce. Heat 1 cup of béchamel sauce in a sauté pan until it’s hot. Gradually whisk in the yellow mustard and whole grain mustard until everything is well combined. This creamy sauce will be a delightful accompaniment to your crab cakes.
• Serve your Maryland Crab Cakes alongside the mustard béchamel sauce, drizzling it over the cakes or serving it on the side. Optionally, garnish the cakes with some chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Notes

• Tip 1: When forming the cakes, make sure to handle the mixture gently. This prevents the cakes from falling apart while cooking.
• Tip 2: Ensure there's enough mayonnaise and egg in the mixture to help the cakes hold together during cooking.
• Tip 3: Frying is preferred for flavor, but if baking, use a parchment-lined tray at 375 degrees for about 13 to 18 minutes.
• Tip 4: When placing the crab cakes in the pan, do so one at a time, ensuring they have space to cook evenly and crisp up.
• Tip 5: You can prepare the cakes up to one hour ahead and keep them warm in the oven at 225 degrees.

Keyword crab cake recipe, easy crab cakes, Maryland Crab Cakes, seafood dishes