Crab & Cucumber Savouries are a delightful and flavorful appetizer that combines the freshness of cucumber with the delicate taste of crabmeat. This recipe offers a creamy and rich sauce made with low-fat spread, mushrooms, fish stock, dry sherry, and low-fat single cream. The combination of these ingredients creates a savory base that perfectly complements the sweetness of the crabmeat. The addition of diced cucumber adds a refreshing and crunchy element to the dish. With its creamy texture and delectable flavors, Crab & Cucumber Savouries are a fantastic option for any occasion, from elegant dinner parties to casual gatherings. Let this recipe elevate your appetizer game and impress your guests with its unique and delicious taste.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 large cucumber, seeded if necessary and diced
- 50g/2oz low-fat spread
- 225g/8oz button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 teaspoons plain flour
- 150ml/5fl oz fish stock, made with 1⁄2 stock cube
- 1 tablespoon dry sherry
- 75ml/3fl oz low-fat single cream
- 175g/6oz canned cooked white crabmeat
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
PREPARATIONS:
- Boil the cucumber in lightly salted water for 3 minutes, then drain well.
- In the same pan, melt the low-fat spread. Cook the mushrooms, stirring, for 2 minutes.
- Add the boiled cucumber to the pan, cover, and cook over gentle heat for 2 minutes.
- Stir in the flour, remove from the heat, and while still stirring, add the fish stock, dry sherry, and low-fat single cream.
- Return the pan to the heat, bring to a boil, and cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Add the crabmeat to the pan and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat the mixture through, then spoon it into six serving dishes.
- Serve the Crab & Cucumber Savouries hot.
TIPS:
- Ensure that the cucumber is well-drained after boiling to prevent excess moisture in the dish.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick of flavor.
- For a variation, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the dish for added freshness and aroma.
- Serve the savouries with a side of crusty bread or crackers for a complete and satisfying appetizer experience.
- Garnish each serving with a sprig of fresh dill or a sprinkle of paprika for an added visual appeal.
YIELD:
- Serves 6.
Crab & Cucumber Savouries are an elegant and flavorful appetizer that combines the delicate taste of crabmeat with the refreshing crunch of cucumber. This recipe offers a creamy and savory sauce made with low-fat spread, mushrooms, fish stock, dry sherry, and low-fat single cream. The result is a delectable base that perfectly complements the sweetness of the crabmeat.
Preparing this dish is a straightforward process. Boil the cucumber briefly, then sauté it with mushrooms in a pan. Add the flour and create a roux, then incorporate the fish stock, dry sherry, and low-fat single cream. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until it thickens. Finally, add the canned cooked white crabmeat and season with salt and pepper. Heat the mixture through, then serve it hot in individual serving dishes.
To enhance the flavor profile of the Crab & Cucumber Savouries, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of cayenne pepper. These additions will add brightness and a subtle kick to the dish. You can also incorporate chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added freshness and aroma.
When serving the Crab & Cucumber Savouries, consider offering crusty bread or crackers on the side. These will provide a delightful textural contrast and make the dish more substantial. Garnish each serving with a sprig of fresh dill or a sprinkle of paprika for an added visual appeal.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a sophisticated appetizer, Crab & Cucumber Savouries are sure to impress. The combination of flavors and textures creates a memorable dish that will leave your guests craving more. Enjoy the creamy and delightful taste of these savouries and let them elevate your dining experience.
