Old Bay crab cakes are a culinary delight that showcases the delicate and succulent flavors of crabmeat combined with the iconic Old Bay seasoning. Originating from the Chesapeake Bay region of Maryland, these crab cakes have become synonymous with East Coast seafood cuisine and are loved by seafood lovers worldwide.
The key ingredient in Old Bay crab cakes is, of course, the crabmeat. The sweet and tender meat of the crab is combined with breadcrumbs, eggs, mayonnaise, and a medley of seasonings, with Old Bay being the star of the show. Old Bay seasoning is a blend of herbs and spices, including celery salt, paprika, black pepper, and other savory elements that add depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
Old Bay Crab Cakes
Equipment
- 1 Dutch Oven
Ingredients
- 2 slices dried bread, crusts removed
- Small amount of milk
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp 1parsley flakes
- 1 tbsp Old Bay® Seasoning
- 1/4 tbsp salt
- 1 egg
- 1 pound ump crabmeat
Instructions
- Preparing the Ingredients. Crush your bread over a large bowl until it is broken down into small pieces. Add milk and stir until breadcrumbs are moistened. Mix in mayo and Worcestershire sauce .Add remaining ingredients and mix well. Shape into 4 patties.
- Air Frying. Cook at 360 degrees for 20 minutes, flip half waythrough.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
The nutrition values of Old Bay crab cakes
The nutrition values of Old Bay crab cakes can vary depending on the specific recipe, the type and amount of crabmeat used, and the cooking method (pan-fried, baked, etc.). Here is a general overview of the approximate nutrition values for a typical serving of Old Bay crab cakes (around 1-2 cakes):
– Calories: Approximately 150-300 calories per crab cake
– Protein: Around 10-20 grams per crab cake
– Fat: Varies based on the type and amount of crabmeat used, as well as the cooking method. Typically, crab cakes are relatively low in fat, with around 5-15 grams per cake.
– Carbohydrates: Generally, crab cakes have a lower carbohydrate content, usually around 5-15 grams per cake.
– Fiber: Typically minimal, less than 1 gram per cake.
– Sodium: The sodium content can vary depending on the amount of Old Bay seasoning used and any additional salt in the recipe. It’s common for crab cakes to have a moderate to high sodium content, ranging from 300-800 milligrams per cake.
It’s important to note that these values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and cooking method used in the recipe. Additionally, the portion size and the presence of any accompanying sauces or side dishes can also impact the overall nutritional content.
If you have specific dietary concerns or are following a particular nutrition plan, it’s recommended to consult a registered dietitian or use a reliable nutrition calculator to get more accurate information based on the specific recipe and cooking method you intend to use.
Tips for cooking
Here are some cooking tips to help you make the perfect Old Bay Crab Cakes:
1. Choose the Right Crab Meat: Use fresh, high-quality crab meat in your crab cakes. Look for lump crab meat, which is made up of large, tender pieces of crab that will hold together better than other varieties.
2. Be Gentle: Don’t overwork the crab meat mixture! When mixing, it’s important to be gentle and avoid breaking up the lumps of crab meat. This will help prevent the crab cakes from falling apart during cooking.
3. Use Enough Binder: Use just enough binder to hold the crab cakes together. This typically includes some combination of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, egg, and panko breadcrumbs. Be sure to mix well and add breadcrumbs as needed, but be careful not to overdo it. Too much binder can cause the crab cakes to become mushy.
4. Chill the Crab Cakes: After forming the crab cakes, chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will help them hold their shape during cooking.
5. Cook Until Golden Brown: When cooking the crab cakes, heat a small amount of oil in a nonstick pan or griddle. Cook over medium heat until they are golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Add Some Spice: Old Bay seasoning is a classic ingredient in crab cakes that adds some delicious flavor. Be sure to sprinkle some Old Bay seasoning on top of the crab cakes and mix it in gently with the other ingredients.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Old Bay Crab Cakes are delicious, flavorful, and perfectly cooked!
Serving Suggestions
Here are some serving suggestions for your Old Bay Crab Cakes:
1. Classic Sandwich: Serve the crab cakes on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of tartar sauce. You can also add cheese, avocado or crisp bacon to the sandwich to add extra texture and flavor.
2. Crab Cake Benedicts: Toast an English muffin, top it with a crab cake, poached egg, and a dollop of hollandaise sauce. Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top for a touch of color.
3. Salad Topping: Place a crab cake on top of mixed greens and crispy vegetables such as sweet bell peppers, carrots, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle a homemade vinaigrette over the salad and serve it with crusty bread.
4. Appetizer Platter: Serve mini crab cakes as an appetizer or snack. Dust them with Old Bay seasoning and serve them with tartar sauce, lemon wedges, and some fresh herbs.
5. Surf and Turf: Pair your Old Bay Crab Cakes with a juicy grilled steak or roasted chicken breast for a classic surf and turf dinner.
Add some roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes as a side dish and don’t forget the glass of red wine! I hope these suggestions inspire you to get creative and enjoy your delicious Old Bay Crab Cakes in a variety of different ways!