Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of freshly cooked crab cakes. Whether you’re going for a gourmet experience at home or looking to impress guests at a dinner party, these Copycat Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Cakes deliver that rich flavor and crispy texture that’ll leave everyone craving more. Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender, lump crab meat cake that’s brimming with bursts of freshness from green onions and vibrant red bell pepper, all perfectly spiced with a hint of Old Bay seasoning. Let’s dive into this delightful seafood dish that’s easier to make than you might think!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lump crab meat
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Oil for frying
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8-10 crab cakes
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the lump crab meat and breadcrumbs, taking care not to break up the crab too much.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, black pepper, green onions, red bell pepper, parsley, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture over the crab mixture, and using a spatula, gently fold to combine all the ingredients without mashing the crab.
- Form the mixture into patties, about 1 inch thick. You should yield about 8-10 delicious crab cakes.
- Place the formed crab cakes onto a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm them up.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the crab cakes to the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and have a crispy crust.
- Remove from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy!
Notes or Tips
For a delightful twist, try serving these crab cakes with a zesty remoulade or a simple lemon aioli. If you love a bit of heat, toss in some diced jalapeños! Also, ensure your crab is fresh—this is key to achieving that scrumptious flavor and texture.
Cooking Techniques
Frying your crab cakes in a skillet allows for that perfect golden crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy. If you prefer a healthier option, you can also bake these by placing them on a lined baking sheet and drizzling a little olive oil on top before baking at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes or until golden.
FAQ
Q: Can I use frozen crab meat?
A: Yes, you can use thawed frozen crab meat, but fresh crab will provide the best flavor and texture.
Q: How do I store leftover crab cakes?
A: Store any leftover crab cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can reheat them in a skillet to restore their crispiness.
Conclusion
These Copycat Joe’s Crab Shack Crab Cakes are a hearty and satisfying treat that you can whip up in no time. Perfect for impressing family and friends or simply indulging on a cozy night in, they encapsulate the essence of comfort food with an elegant twist. So grab your ingredients and get ready to delight your taste buds with these mouthwatering crab cakes that are sure to become a household favorite!