Crab Cakes, Curried or Plain

Indulge in the delightful flavors of these Flavorful Crab Cakes, where the star of the show is undoubtedly the fresh lump crabmeat. Unlike traditional crab cakes that may contain excessive fillers, this recipe keeps the focus on the succulent crab, resulting in delectable cakes with an exceptional taste and texture. With minimal additions and no heavy reliance on breadcrumbs, these crab cakes boast a delicious simplicity that truly highlights the natural flavors of the crab.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. While the primary seafood ingredient is lump crabmeat, you have the option to explore other delightful seafood options, such as lobster, for a luxurious twist. The crabmeat, combined with an egg, chopped red bell pepper, scallion, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and seasonings, is lightly bound together with just enough bread crumbs to hold their shape.

Simple and quick to prepare, these crab cakes can be chilled before cooking to help them hold their form better, though they are ready to cook right away if time is limited. The addition of curry powder to the flour dredge brings an exotic touch to the crab cakes, adding a layer of complexity to their flavor.

When cooking the crab cakes, use a cast-iron skillet if possible to achieve a golden and crispy exterior. A gentle approach is essential when turning the cakes to maintain their integrity and ensure a perfect result. Serve the flavorful crab cakes with lemon wedges and/or tartar sauce for a zesty and delightful complement to the seafood goodness.

Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or simply craving a delicious seafood treat, these Flavorful Crab Cakes promise to impress with their focus on pure crab flavor and their quick and easy preparation. Savor the taste of fresh seafood with every bite, and delight in the simplicity and richness of these delightful crab cakes!

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: 15 minutes, plus time to chill

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pound fresh lump crabmeat, picked over for cartilage
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped scallion (optional)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons bread crumbs, preferably fresh, or cracker crumbs, or as needed
• About 1 cup all-purpose flour for dredging
• Curry powder (optional)
• 2 tablespoons peanut, extra virgin olive, or vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons butter or more oil
• Lemon wedges and/or Tartar Sauce for serving

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the crabmeat, egg, chopped red bell pepper (if using), scallion (if using), mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Add enough bread crumbs to the mixture to bind it just enough to form into cakes. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
3. Refrigerate the crabmeat mixture until you’re ready to cook. Chilling it for 30 minutes or more will make it easier to shape, but you can proceed to cook right after mixing if desired.
4. Season the flour with salt, pepper, and curry powder (if using).
5. Heat a large skillet, preferably cast-iron, over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the oil and butter, and heat until the butter foam subsides.
6. Shape the crabmeat mixture into 1-inch-thick cakes, dredge each cake in the seasoned flour, and gently cook them in the skillet, turning once, until golden brown on both sides. This should take about 5 minutes per side.
7. Serve the Flavorful Crab Cakes with lemon wedges and/or tartar sauce for a zesty finishing touch.

Enjoy the delightful and savory flavors of these crab cakes as they highlight the natural goodness of fresh lump crabmeat. Whether you’re savoring them on their own or complementing them with tangy tartar sauce, these crab cakes promise to be a crowd-pleasing and delectable seafood delight!