Easy Crab Cakes with Panko

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Crab cakes are a classic dish that never fails to impress. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just looking to treat yourself, these easy crab cakes with panko will surely satisfy your seafood cravings.

Easy Crab Cakes with Panko
Prep
15 min
Cook
15 min
Total
30 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, egg, Dijon, Worcestershire, and hot sauce. Use a whisk to mix them together well. Add salt and pepper to taste.

  2. In a medium bowl, mix together crabmeat, panko bread crumbs, and parsley. Gently fold in the mayonnaise mixture until well combined. Shape the mixture into 8 patties.

  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties to the skillet in batches and cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Transfer the cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Repeat this process with the remaining patties, adding more oil to the skillet as needed.

  4. If you prefer, you can substitute crushed saltine crackers for the panko bread crumbs.

About this recipe

Crab cakes are a classic dish that never fails to impress. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just looking to treat yourself, these easy crab cakes with panko will surely satisfy your seafood cravings. The best part? They're incredibly simple to make!

The Secret to Perfect Crab Cakes

What makes these crab cakes so special? It's all about the panko breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than traditional breadcrumbs, giving the crab cakes a delightful crunch. Plus, they absorb less oil, resulting in a lighter and healthier dish.

But the real secret lies in the crab meat itself. Fresh and high-quality crab meat is essential for achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Look for lump crab meat, which consists of large, whole pieces of crab. This will give your crab cakes a deliciously meaty and succulent bite.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving into the recipe, let's go over the ingredients you'll need:

  • Lump crab meat
  • Panko breadcrumbs
  • Mayonnaise
  • Dijon mustard
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Green onions
  • Parsley
  • Old Bay seasoning
  • Lemon juice
  • Egg
  • Salt and pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to get cooking! Follow these simple steps:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the lump crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chopped green onions, minced parsley, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined.
  2. Form the mixture into patties of your desired size. You can make them small as appetizers or larger for a main course.
  3. Heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  4. Carefully place the crab cakes in the skillet and cook until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side.
  5. Once cooked, transfer the crab cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
  6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as they are!

These crab cakes pair perfectly with a refreshing salad or some crispy fries. They make a fantastic appetizer or a satisfying main course that will impress your friends and family.

In Conclusion

These easy crab cakes with panko are a true delight. With their crispy exterior, tender interior, and flavorful blend of ingredients, they are sure to please even the most discerning seafood lover. Plus, they're incredibly simple to make, making them the perfect dish for any occasion. So why not give them a try and experience the taste of the sea in every bite?

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use canned crab meat instead of fresh?

While fresh crab meat is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use canned crab meat if fresh is not available. Just make sure to drain the canned crab meat well before using it in the recipe.

. Can I freeze the crab cakes?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked crab cakes for up to three months. Just place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and cook as directed.

. What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?

If you don't have panko breadcrumbs on hand, regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute. However, keep in mind that the texture and crispiness may be slightly different.

. Can I make these crab cakes gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs, and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

. Can I use a different type of crab meat?

While lump crab meat is recommended for its large, succulent pieces, you can use other types of crab meat, such as claw meat or a combination of both. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary slightly.

. How long do crab cakes last in the refrigerator?

If stored properly in an airtight container, crab cakes can last for up to three days in the refrigerator. Simply reheat them in a skillet or oven before serving.

. What are some recommended dipping sauces for crab cakes?

Some popular dipping sauces that pair well with crab cakes include tartar sauce, remoulade sauce, aioli, or a simple squeeze of lemon juice.

. Can I bake the crab cakes instead of frying them?

Absolutely! If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the crab cakes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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