Crab bake
New England Crab Bake Recipe | Ingredients: Crab Meat, Bread Crumbs, Mayonnaise, Mustard, Eggs, Onion, Celery, Old Bay Seasoning, Lemon Juice
Introduction
Crab bake is a delicious and savory dish that is perfect for seafood lovers. This recipe combines the sweet and delicate flavor of crab meat with a crunchy bread crumb topping, creating a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress your guests.
History
The origins of crab bake can be traced back to coastal regions where fresh seafood is abundant. This dish has been a favorite among seafood enthusiasts for generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to the recipe.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb (680 g) of crab meat
- 2 cups of fresh bread crumbs
- 2 tbsp of mayonnaise
- 3 tbsp of yellow mustard
- 3 beaten eggs
- 1 small white onion, diced
- 1 stalk of celery, chopped
- 1 tsp of old bay seasoning
- 2 tbsp of lemon juice
How to prepare
- Dice the crab meat using a food processor until it is crumbled.
- In a large bowl, mix the diced crab with bread crumbs, white onion, celery, mayonnaise, yellow mustard, and lemon juice.
- Whisk the Old Bay seasoning into beaten eggs and pour the mixture over the ingredients in the bowl.
- Mix everything well until it forms a homogeneous mixture.
- Using your hands, spread the mixture evenly in a nonstick 9x13 pan, making sure it has a uniform thickness.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (191°C) for 20 minutes.
- Allow the dish to cool for ten minutes before cutting it into ten servings.
Variations
- Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos for a spicy kick.
- Substitute the bread crumbs with crushed crackers for a different texture.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to use fresh crab meat for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the amount of Old Bay seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
- Serve the crab bake with a side of lemon wedges for a burst of citrus flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the crab bake with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Baking the crab mixture ensures that it cooks evenly and develops a crispy crust on top.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use imitation crab meat if fresh crab is not available.
- Substitute Dijon mustard for yellow mustard for a tangier flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
Prepare the crab mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the crab bake with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair the crab bake with a glass of chilled white wine or a light beer for a refreshing combination.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of crab bake contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of crab bake contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of crab bake contains approximately 10 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of crab bake contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Crab meat is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium.
Alergens
This recipe contains shellfish (crab) and mayonnaise, which may be allergens for some individuals.
Summary
Crab bake is a nutritious dish that is rich in proteins and vitamins, making it a healthy choice for seafood lovers.
Summary
Crab bake is a delectable seafood dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends.
How did I get this recipe?
I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe for a delicious crab bake. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl visiting my aunt in the coastal town of Cape Cod. My aunt was an amazing cook, and she had a knack for creating the most mouthwatering dishes using the freshest seafood from the nearby waters.
One evening, as the sun was setting over the ocean, my aunt invited me into the kitchen to help her prepare dinner. She had a big smile on her face as she pulled out a large crab from the refrigerator and began to explain the recipe to me. The crab bake was a family favorite, passed down from generation to generation, and my aunt was determined to teach me how to make it just right.
As she showed me how to clean and prepare the crab, I listened intently, taking in every detail of the recipe. The key, she said, was to use only the freshest ingredients and to season the crab just right. She showed me how to mix together breadcrumbs, butter, garlic, and herbs to create a flavorful topping for the crab.
Once the crab was cleaned and seasoned, my aunt carefully placed it in a baking dish and covered it with the breadcrumb mixture. She then popped it into the oven, and the kitchen quickly filled with the tantalizing aroma of garlic and butter.
As we waited for the crab bake to cook, my aunt told me stories of her own childhood, spent by the sea, and how she had learned to cook from her mother and grandmother. She spoke of the simple joys of gathering around the dinner table with family and friends, sharing good food and laughter.
When the crab bake was finally ready, my aunt pulled it out of the oven and placed it on the table in front of me. The crab was golden brown and crispy on top, and the scent of garlic and butter wafted through the air. I couldn't wait to dig in.
The first bite was pure heaven. The crab was tender and sweet, perfectly complemented by the crunchy breadcrumb topping. The flavors melded together in a symphony of taste, and I savored every mouthful.
As I ate, my aunt watched me with a proud smile on her face. She had passed on her love of cooking to me, along with this treasured family recipe. And as I sat at the table, surrounded by the warmth and love of my aunt's kitchen, I knew that this crab bake would always hold a special place in my heart.
Years have passed since that evening in Cape Cod, but the memory of that delicious crab bake has stayed with me. I have made the recipe many times since then, sharing it with friends and family who have all marveled at its deliciousness.
I often think back to that time in my aunt's kitchen, learning the secrets of the crab bake from her skilled hands. And I am grateful for the knowledge and love she passed on to me, inspiring me to create my own culinary delights and carry on the tradition of good food and good company.
So whenever I make this crab bake, I am transported back to that magical evening by the sea, surrounded by the sounds of laughter and the smell of garlic and butter. And as I take a bite of the tender, sweet crab, I am reminded of the love and memories that make this recipe so special.