Chesapeake Bay Crab Cakes with Zesty Lemondill Aioli Old Bay Edition
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever crave that taste of summer and the sea? These Old Bay crab cakes bring the Chesapeake Bay cuisine right to your kitchen.
These crab cakes provide a taste that is both savory and zesty!
Brief Overview
These Maryland crab cakes, born from the heart of Chesapeake Bay cuisine , are a coastal staple. This recipe sits at a medium difficulty level.
It takes about an hour and fifteen minutes, including prep and chill time. This recipe yields 4-6 Maryland crab cakes.
Main Benefits
Crab meat is packed with protein and omega-3s. The Crab Seasoning makes it amazing! These are perfect for a summer BBQ or a fancy dinner party.
This seafood seasoning recipe is special because it's so simple yet so delicious!
Let's Talk Ingredients
So, what makes these Old Bay crab cake recipe the talk of the town? The ingredients, of course! We are talking about jumbo lump crab meat, Old Bay seasoning, panko breadcrumbs, and a few other goodies to bind it all together.
Don’t forget the lemon dill aioli, cause honestly, it's a game changer! You can read more about Old Bay seasoning online.
Chesapeake Bay Magic
Okay, full disclosure: I once tried to make these for a potluck and totally forgot the Old Bay Spice. Disaster averted, but the taste wasn't the same! Now, I triple check.
Also, I want to make sure that you can change a few items for the recipe like using greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for the aioli.
You know, don't feel bad if you don't have the exact ingredients to make it unique for you.
Aioli recipe for crab cakes
Ready to make the aioli? Combine mayo, lemon juice, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper. Boom! That zesty kick makes this recipe unforgettable.
Some people use the bay seasoning recipe instead of aioli. Feel free to use that.
What Makes This Recipe Tick?
These crab cakes taste like a vacation. The best seasoning for crab cakes has to be Old Bay seasoning. Each bite will take you to a coastal paradise!
Ingredients & Equipment
Alright, let's talk about what you need to make these Chesapeake Bay stunners! Don't worry, you probably have most of this stuff already.
It's more about the quality of the ingredients, you know? We're aiming for that real Maryland crab cakes experience.
Main Ingredients
Here's the lowdown. Get ready to make the best Old Bay crab cake recipe !
- Jumbo lump crab meat : 1 pound (454g) . Shell free is key! Look for bright white meat. It should smell fresh, not fishy.
- Panko breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (60g) .
- Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup (30g) . Full fat, trust me.
- Dijon mustard: 2 tablespoons (30ml) .
- Egg: 1 large , lightly beaten.
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons , finely chopped.
- Red bell pepper: 2 tablespoons , finely chopped.
- Old Bay seasoning : 1 tablespoon . This is where the magic happens !
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 teaspoon .
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon .
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon .
- Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons . For cooking those beauties.
For that killer Lemon Dill Aioli recipe for crab cakes :
- Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup (120ml) . Again, go full fat.
- Fresh lemon juice: 2 tablespoons .
- Fresh dill: 2 tablespoons , finely chopped.
- Garlic: 1 clove , minced.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon .
- Black pepper: 1/8 teaspoon .
Seasoning Notes
Old Bay spice is THE crab seasoning . No question. It's iconic Chesapeake Bay cuisine . If you really don't have it.
..well, maybe try a mix of celery salt, paprika, and a tiny bit of cayenne. But honestly, just get some Old Bay.
It's worth it for the best seasoning for crab cakes . You can also get some fantastic Crab Seasoning Recipes on the internet.
Worcestershire adds depth. The lemon and dill? Pure brightness!
Equipment Needed
Keep it simple. This seafood seasoning recipe doesn't need fancy gadgets.
- Large mixing bowl.
- Small mixing bowl.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Skillet or frying pan.
- Spatula.
- Baking sheet (optional).
That's it! Now let's get cooking with this Bay Seasoning Recipe !. Honestly, these Crab Seasoning Recipes are super fun to cook.
Cooking Method: Sautéing Our Crab Cakes to Golden Perfection
Alright, let's talk crab cakes ! Ever wonder how to get that perfect golden crust without them falling apart? It's all about the sautéing technique! We're not just frying.
It's about gentle heat and a little patience to make the best seasoning for crab cakes shine! The secret recipe? A good skillet, some oil, and a watchful eye.
Prep Steps: Setting the Stage for Sautéing
First things first, mise en place , darling! Get everything prepped. Chop that parsley and red bell pepper. Mix the Old Bay seasoning with the other spices.
Measure out your panko. Honestly, having everything ready makes life so much easier. Plus, make sure those patties are firm and chilled! Give them at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
This is crucial! This ensures they hold their shape. I can't stress this enough.
And a lil' safety tip: never overcrowd the pan. Hot oil and too many Maryland crab cakes are a recipe for a splashy disaster.
step-by-step Process: Sizzling to Success
Here's how we make some Maryland crab cakes !
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in your skillet over medium heat.
- Carefully place the chilled crab cakes in the hot oil.
- Sauté for 4- 5 minutes per side.
- Look for that beautiful golden brown color. It means they are ready.
- Gently flip the crab cakes with a spatula. Be gentle!
- Cook until heated through.
That's it! If you are still unsure about their readiness. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165° F ( 74° C) . Use a meat thermometer! I swear, it's a game changer.
Pro Tips: Sautéing Secrets
- Don't fiddle! Let the crab cakes sit and develop a crust before flipping.
- Watch the heat! Too high and they'll burn. Too low and they'll be soggy.
- Avoid Common mistakes: Don't overmix the crab cake mixture! Overmixing makes them tough. It also helps them to hold better.
Honestly, these Old Bay crab cake recipe are amazing fresh! Serve them up with that zesty lemon dill aioli. I make the aioli recipe for crab cakes the night before.
This allows the flavors to blend. You know? It just makes everything taste better! It's the perfect Chesapeake Bay cuisine experience, right in your kitchen.
And don't forget that Old Bay Spice is your best friend.
Recipe Notes: Level Up Your Crab Cake Game
Okay, so you're about to dive into making these amazing Chesapeake Bay crab cakes. Before you do, let’s chat about a few things.
These are kinda like my grandma used to make, but with a modern twist. I'm talking tips, tricks, and serving ideas to make your Crab Seasoning Recipes absolutely perfect.
Trust me, these notes are gold.
Serving Suggestions: Presentation is Key!
Think about how you want to present your masterpieces. A simple plate with the crab cake and aioli works. But why not go fancy? I like to serve mine atop a bed of peppery arugula.
A lemon wedge adds a pop of color and extra zing.
For sides, consider classic coleslaw. Roasted asparagus or grilled corn on the cob are winners too. Beverage wise, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light pale ale will cut through the richness.
Oh, and don't forget the fries, if you are into those things.
Storage Tips: Keeping the Magic Alive
Got leftovers? (If you do, I envy your self control!) Pop them in the fridge within two hours. An airtight container is your best friend here. They'll keep for about 2-3 days.
Freezing is an option, but the texture might change a bit. Wrap each crab cake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.
They'll be good for up to a month. When reheating, bake them at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through.
Microwaving isn't recommended - it can make them rubbery.
Variations: Make it Your Own!
Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the crab mixture. gluten-free? Swap the panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
I tried this last month, the result was great.
For a lighter aioli, use Greek yogurt instead of mayo. Honestly, no one will notice the difference. You can also use Yellow or brown mustard.
Also consider dried dill instead of fresh. But the fresh dill is superior, in my opinion. Experiment with your Bay Seasoning Recipe !
Nutrition Basics: Guilt Free Indulgence
Let's be real: we're here for the taste, not the calorie count. These crab cakes have good stuff in them!. Crab is packed with protein. And the Lemon Dill Aioli adds healthy fats.
Each crab cake has about 350 calories, 25g protein, 25g fat, 10g carbs and 700mg of sodium. Of course, these numbers are just estimates.
Use common sense with Crab Seasoning when preparing your Seafood Seasoning Recipe .
So, go ahead and get cooking. These tips will help you create the perfect Old Bay crab cake recipe . Enjoy the taste of the Chesapeake Bay cuisine ! Remember to breathe and embrace the process.
You got this!.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Old Bay seasoning anyway? I've heard so much about it!
Old Bay seasoning is a classic American spice blend, especially popular in the Mid-Atlantic region, kinda like how Yorkshire pudding is for the UK! It's a mix of herbs and spices, including celery salt, paprika, and red pepper, that adds a unique savory and slightly spicy flavor.
While the exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, it's a go-to for seafood, but also works great on chicken, fries, and even popcorn.
Can I make these crab cakes ahead of time? I'm having a right knees-up next weekend.
Absolutely! You can prepare the crab cake mixture and form the patties up to 24 hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook them. Just be sure to keep them properly chilled; you don't want any dodgy tummies at your party!
My crab cakes keep falling apart. What am I doing wrong?
Aha, the dreaded crumbling crab cake! The most common culprit is overmixing the ingredients; this develops the gluten in the breadcrumbs and makes the mixture tough, but also strangely unstable. Mix gently until just combined.
Chilling the crab cakes for the recommended time (at least 30 minutes) is also crucial, as it helps them firm up and hold their shape. Finally, make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the crab cakes a good sear will help them stay together.
Is there a good substitute for Old Bay seasoning if I can't find it at my local shop?
Finding yourself Old Bay-less is a bit like running out of tea a real crisis! While nothing exactly replicates its unique flavor, you can create a decent substitute. Try mixing celery salt, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Start with equal parts of each, then adjust to taste.
It won't be quite the same Chesapeake Bay experience, but it'll do in a pinch.
How can I make these crab cakes healthier without sacrificing flavor? I'm trying to be a bit more health conscious.
No worries, you can definitely lighten these up! Consider baking the crab cakes instead of frying them. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of full fat mayonnaise in the aioli for a tangy, protein packed alternative. Using whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs can also add some fiber.
Remember that Old Bay seasoning does contain sodium, so use it judiciously if you're watching your salt intake.
Can I freeze these crab cakes for later?
Yes, you can! For best results, freeze the uncooked crab cakes individually on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They'll keep for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to cook them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before proceeding with the recipe.
Just be aware that the texture may be slightly softer after freezing.
Chesapeake Bay Crab Cakes With Zesty Lemondill A
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 0g |
