Original Old Bay Crab Cakes

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Introduction:

Experience the rich maritime heritage and delectable flavors of the Chesapeake Bay with our Original Old Bay Crab Cakes recipe. Inspired by the culinary traditions of the East Coast, these crab cakes are a celebration of fresh crab meat, seasoned to perfection with the iconic blend of herbs and spices found in Old Bay seasoning. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or part of a seafood feast, these crab cakes are a timeless classic that never fails to delight the taste buds. Join us as we dive into the history of this beloved dish and reveal the secrets to crafting the perfect Old Bay crab cakes in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • 2 slices dried bread, crusts removed
  • 1 Tbs. milk
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon parsley flakes
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 pound lump crabmeat
  • vegetable oil

Directions:

  1. In a large bowl, break bread into small pieces. Moisten with milk.
  2. Add mayo, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, baking powder, Old Bay, salt, egg and crabmeat. Mix lightly and shape into 4 patties. Refrigerate patties 30 minutes to help keep them stay formed when cooking. Fill your frying pan with about 1/4″ vegetable oil. Over medium-high heat, fry until golden-brown on both sides. I usually flip every 1 minute to avoid over frying.

Serving Tips:

  1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, garnish your Original Old Bay Crab Cakes with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and added freshness. This simple touch enhances the presentation and complements the flavors of the crab cakes beautifully.
  2. Lemon Wedges: Serve lemon wedges alongside the crab cakes to allow diners to squeeze fresh lemon juice over their crab cakes. The acidity of the lemon brightens the flavors of the crab cakes and adds a refreshing tang.
  3. Tartar Sauce or Remoulade: Offer tartar sauce or remoulade on the side for dipping or spreading onto the crab cakes. These creamy, tangy sauces enhance the flavor of the crab cakes and provide a delicious contrast in texture.
  4. Warm Platter: Serve the crab cakes on a warm platter or individual plates to keep them at the optimal serving temperature. Warm crab cakes are more flavorful and enjoyable than cold ones, so take care to serve them promptly.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover Original Old Bay Crab Cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Allow the crab cakes to cool completely before transferring them to the container to prevent condensation and maintain their texture.
  2. Reheating: To reheat leftover crab cakes, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the crab cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil until heated through and crispy.
  3. Freezing: While crab cakes can be frozen for longer storage, their texture may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze leftover crab cakes, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, separating each crab cake with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Label the container with the date and contents and store it in the freezer for up to 1-2 months.
  4. Use in Other Recipes: If you have leftover crab cakes that you won’t be able to finish, consider incorporating them into other recipes. Crumble them over salads, use them as a filling for omelets or frittatas, or add them to soups or pasta dishes for a delicious seafood twist.

FAQs:

  1. Can I Use Other Types of Crab Meat Besides Lump Crab? Yes, you can use other types of crab meat in the recipe, such as claw meat or jumbo lump crab meat, depending on your preference and availability. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly depending on the type of crab meat used.
  2. Can I Make Old Bay Crab Cakes Without Old Bay Seasoning? While Old Bay seasoning is a key ingredient that imparts the classic flavor profile to the crab cakes, you can try to replicate its flavor using a combination of celery salt, paprika, black pepper, and other herbs and spices. However, the result may not be exactly the same as using authentic Old Bay seasoning.
  3. How Do I Prevent Crab Cakes from Falling Apart During Cooking? To prevent crab cakes from falling apart during cooking, make sure the mixture is well-chilled before shaping the crab cakes. Additionally, lightly coat the crab cakes in breadcrumbs before cooking, which helps bind the ingredients together and creates a crispy exterior.
  4. Can I Bake Crab Cakes Instead of Pan-Frying Them? Yes, you can bake crab cakes in the oven instead of pan-frying them for a lighter and healthier option. Place the crab cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
  5. Are Old Bay Crab Cakes Gluten-Free? While the main ingredients in Old Bay Crab Cakes, such as crab meat, mayonnaise, and seasonings, are naturally gluten-free, it’s important to check the labels of the other ingredients, such as breadcrumbs and Old Bay seasoning, to ensure they are gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions. Alternatively, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and seasonings to make gluten-free crab cakes.

Conclusion:

Original Old Bay Crab Cakes are a timeless classic that embodies the rich culinary heritage of the Chesapeake Bay region. With their premium ingredients, bold flavors, and versatility, these crab cakes are a favorite dish for seafood lovers everywhere. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or sandwich, they’re sure to impress even the most discerning palates. So gather your ingredients, dust off your Old Bay seasoning, and get ready to savor the irresistible taste of Original Old Bay Crab Cakes in your own kitchen.

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