Avocado Crab Cakes and Avocado Sauce

Delicious Avocado Crab Cakes and Sauce Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Cooking time: 8 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Avocado Crab Cakes with Avocado Sauce is a delightful recipe that combines the rich, buttery flavor of avocados with the sweet, delicate taste of crab meat. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate the finer nuances of seafood while enjoying the creamy texture and nutritional benefits of avocados. Ideal for a sophisticated brunch, light lunch, or as an elegant appetizer, this recipe promises to impress with its balance of flavors and visually appealing presentation.

History

The concept of crab cakes originates from the Chesapeake Bay region of the United States, where crabbing is a significant industry. Traditionally, crab cakes were a way to stretch the crab meat further by mixing it with fillers like breadcrumbs. The addition of avocado and a unique avocado sauce to crab cakes is a modern twist, reflecting the growing popularity of avocados in contemporary cuisine. This fusion of traditional and modern culinary practices creates a dish that is both familiar and excitingly new.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) lump crabmeat, drained
0.75 cup fine, dry breadcrumbs
1 large egg
3 small california avocados, peeled and mashed
0.5 cup chopped green onions
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp fresh lime juice
0.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground red pepper
1 stick (0.5 cup) Land o' Lakes butter
3 tbsp olive oil

Avocado sauce

2 small california avocados, peeled
0.5 cup sour cream
1 tsp grated lime rind
1 tbsp fresh lime juice
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground red pepper

How to prepare

Stir together the first 9 ingredients and shape into 12 patties.
Chill for at least 1 hour.
Melt butter in oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the patties, 4 at a time.
Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
Drain well and keep warm.
Serve with avocado sauce.

Avocado sauce

Mash avocados in a medium bowl and stir in sour cream and the next 4 ingredients.
Chill for 1 hour.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers. To add a spicy kick, incorporate finely chopped jalapeños into the crab mixture or avocado sauce.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when making Avocado Crab Cakes with Avocado Sauce, consider the following tips:

- Use fresh, high-quality lump crabmeat for the best flavor and texture.

- Be gentle when mixing the crabmeat with other ingredients to keep the lumps intact for a more satisfying texture.

- Chill the crab cake mixture before shaping and cooking to help the patties hold together better.

- Use a non-stick skillet and enough oil to prevent the crab cakes from sticking and ensure even browning.

- Prepare the avocado sauce ahead of time and chill it to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Avocado Crab Cakes on a bed of mixed greens dressed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the crab cakes and avocado sauce, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Pan-frying the crab cakes in a mixture of butter and olive oil gives them a golden-brown crust while keeping the interior moist and tender. Mashing the avocados for the sauce by hand rather than blending ensures the sauce retains some texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If lump crabmeat is not available, canned crabmeat can be used as a substitute, though the texture and flavor may vary slightly. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream in the avocado sauce for a lighter, tangier alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

The crab mixture and avocado sauce can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop more fully.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the crab cakes with lime wedges and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serving the dish on a white platter will highlight the vibrant green of the avocado sauce.

Pairing Recommendations

A crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light, citrusy beer complements the flavors of the crab cakes and avocado sauce beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling limeade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover crab cakes and avocado sauce can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat the crab cakes in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. The avocado sauce is best served chilled.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Avocado Crab Cakes with Avocado Sauce contains approximately 350 calories. This makes it a moderately caloric option suitable for a main course, especially when paired with a light salad or vegetable side.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Avocado Crab Cakes with Avocado Sauce contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates. The carbohydrates primarily come from the breadcrumbs used in the crab cakes and the natural sugars present in the avocados.

Fats

Avocados are known for their healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fat, which is beneficial for heart health. Each serving of this dish contains about 22 grams of fat, with a significant portion coming from the avocados and olive oil. These healthy fats contribute to the creamy texture and satisfying mouthfeel of the dish.

Proteins

Crab meat is an excellent source of high-quality protein. Each serving of Avocado Crab Cakes with Avocado Sauce provides roughly 20 grams of protein, making it a fulfilling and nutritious option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

Avocados are a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Potassium, and Folate. Combined with the nutrients found in crab meat, such as Vitamin B12 and Selenium, this dish is a nutritional powerhouse that supports overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens, including crab (shellfish), eggs, and dairy (sour cream). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution or seek alternative recipes.

Summary

Overall, Avocado Crab Cakes with Avocado Sauce is a nutritious dish that offers a good balance of proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a suitable option for those monitoring their intake.

Summary

Avocado Crab Cakes with Avocado Sauce is a modern take on a classic dish, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. With its nutritional benefits and versatile serving options, it's a recipe that can be enjoyed on many occasions. Whether you're hosting a brunch, looking for a light lunch option, or preparing an elegant appetizer, this dish is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, much like today, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipes that I had collected over the years. As I sifted through the yellowed pages and tattered index cards, my eyes fell upon a faded piece of paper with the words "Avocado Crab Cakes and Avocado Sauce" scrawled across the top in elegant cursive.

I had never heard of such a dish before, but I was intrigued. The recipe was handwritten, a sign that it was passed down from generation to generation. It had a list of ingredients that included fresh avocados, lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, and a variety of seasonings. The instructions were detailed, but simple enough for me to follow.

I immediately set to work gathering the necessary ingredients. I headed to the market to pick up some ripe avocados and fresh lump crab meat. When I returned home, I carefully followed the instructions, mixing the ingredients together to form the perfect crab cake mixture. I shaped them into patties and fried them in a hot skillet until they were golden brown and crispy.

As the crab cakes sizzled in the pan, I whipped up a creamy avocado sauce to accompany them. I mashed ripe avocados with sour cream, lemon juice, and a hint of garlic until it formed a smooth and velvety sauce. I spooned it generously over the hot crab cakes, creating a beautiful and delicious dish that I couldn't wait to share with my family.

When my husband and children arrived home, they were greeted with the mouthwatering aroma of the avocado crab cakes and avocado sauce. They eagerly dug in, savoring each bite and showering me with compliments. It was a hit, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in our household for years to come.

Over the years, I have made the avocado crab cakes and avocado sauce countless times, perfecting the recipe with each batch. I have shared it with friends and neighbors, who have all raved about its unique and delicious flavor. It has become a signature dish of mine, one that brings joy and comfort to all who taste it.

As I reflect on the journey of discovering this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the generations of cooks who came before me, passing down their knowledge and love of food. I am reminded of the power of a simple recipe to connect us to our past and bring us together in the present.

And so, I continue to make my avocado crab cakes and avocado sauce with love and pride, knowing that each bite carries with it a piece of my culinary heritage. It is a dish that not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul, a reminder of the power of food to bring us joy and connection.