Delicious Maryland-Style Crab Cakes
Experience the rich flavors of the Chesapeake Bay with these delicious Maryland-style crab cakes! This recipe has been cherished through generations in my family, passed down from my beloved Mommom who grew up near the shores of Delaware. Each cake is crafted with tender lump crabmeat delicately blended with spices and seasonings, creating a dish that’s not only a tribute to the region’s seafood legacy but also one that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer at a gathering or as a delightful meal on their own, these crab cakes are sure to impress your family and friends. Pair them with homemade tartar sauce and a squeeze of lemon for an unforgettable feast!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
lump crabmeat
1 lb (picked over for shells)
breadcrumbs
1/2 cup (fresh or dry)
eggs
2 (beaten)
mayonnaise
1/4 cup (do not use dressing)
Old Bay Seasoning
1 teaspoon (for seasoning)
black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (freshly ground)
Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons (for flavor)
dry mustard
1 teaspoon (for zing)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, mayonnaise, Old Bay seasoning, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and dry mustard until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2
Gradually add the breadcrumbs to the mixture, stirring to combine evenly.
3
Gently fold in the lump crabmeat, ensuring not to break up the pieces too much. Mix until just combined.
4
Shape the crab mixture into round cakes, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches thick.
5
Heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil. Once hot, carefully add the crab cakes to the pan, cooking for about 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and heated through.
6
Alternatively, broil the crab cakes in the oven until golden brown, flipping halfway through if necessary.
7
Serve warm with homemade tartar sauce and wedges of lemon for squeezing.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main ingredient in these Maryland-Style Crab Cakes?
The main ingredient is 1 lb of lump crabmeat, which should be picked over for shells.
What type of breadcrumbs should I use?
You can use either 1/2 cup of fresh or dry breadcrumbs.
Can I use salad dressing instead of mayonnaise?
No, the recipe specifically states to use mayonnaise and not dressing.
What seasoning provides the classic Maryland flavor?
Old Bay Seasoning is used to provide the traditional regional flavor profile.
How many eggs are required for the binding?
The recipe calls for 2 eggs, which should be beaten before mixing.
What is the purpose of adding dry mustard?
Dry mustard is added to the mixture to provide a bit of zing to the flavor.
How much Worcestershire sauce is needed?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce for enhanced flavor.
How thick should the crab cakes be shaped?
The crab mixture should be shaped into round cakes approximately 1 to 1.5 inches thick.
What is the best way to mix the crabmeat?
Gently fold in the lump crabmeat to ensure you do not break up the large pieces.
How long do I cook the crab cakes in a skillet?
Cook them for about 5 minutes on each side over medium heat.
Can I bake or broil these crab cakes instead of frying?
Yes, you can broil them in the oven until they are golden brown.
What should I serve with the crab cakes?
They are best served warm with homemade tartar sauce and fresh lemon wedges.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to provide 4 servings.
What kind of black pepper is recommended?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
Is there a specific sequence for mixing the ingredients?
Whisk the wet ingredients and seasonings first, then add breadcrumbs, and finally fold in the crabmeat.
Where does this recipe originate from?
It is a family recipe passed down from a Mommom who grew up near the shores of Delaware.
How do I know when the crab cakes are done?
They should be golden brown on the outside and heated thoroughly through the center.
Is this recipe suitable for appetizers?
Yes, these crab cakes are perfect as either an appetizer or a main meal.
How many total ingredients are used in this recipe?
There are 8 total ingredients used in this recipe.
What heat level should I use for frying?
A skillet should be heated over medium heat with a small amount of oil.
Should the eggs be beaten before adding them to the bowl?
Yes, the instructions specify to whisk together the beaten eggs with other wet ingredients.
What is the texture of these crab cakes?
They are described as having tender lump crabmeat delicately blended with spices.
Do I need to flip the crab cakes while broiling?
Yes, you should flip them halfway through the broiling process if necessary.
Can I use frozen crabmeat for this recipe?
While lump crabmeat is specified, you can use thawed frozen crabmeat as long as it is well-drained.
Is this recipe considered traditional?
Yes, it is tagged as a traditional Maryland seafood recipe.
How much Old Bay Seasoning is used?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of Old Bay Seasoning.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to whisk together eggs, mayonnaise, seasonings, and sauces until smooth.
Does the recipe include any sugar?
No, this recipe does not contain any added sugar.
What region is the Chesapeake Bay associated with?
The Chesapeake Bay is associated with Maryland and the surrounding East Coast seafood legacy.
Why should I pick over the crabmeat?
Picking over the crabmeat ensures that any remaining bits of shell are removed before cooking.