These Original Old Bay Crab Cakes are a classic and savory delight, capturing the essence of coastal cuisine. This recipe yields 4 generous crab cakes, ideal for a hearty meal or an impressive appetizer. The key to their flavor is the unique blend of Old Bay Seasoning and fresh crabmeat, ensuring each bite is packed with taste.
Ingredients:
- Dried Bread: 2 slices, crusts removed. This acts as a binder.
- Milk: 1 tablespoon, to moisten the bread.
- Mayonnaise: 1 tablespoon, adding creaminess and binding the mixture.
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon, for a tangy depth of flavor.
- Parsley Flakes: 1 tablespoon, for a herby note.
- Baking Powder: 1 tablespoon, a surprising ingredient that helps to lighten the texture.
- Old Bay Seasoning: 1 teaspoon, the star spice blend giving the authentic flavor.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon, to enhance the overall taste.
- Egg: 1, beaten, to bind the ingredients.
- Lump Crabmeat: 1 pound, the hero of the dish. Ensure it’s fresh and well-picked over for shells.
- Vegetable Oil: For frying, enough to fill the pan with about 1/4 inch of oil.
Directions:
- Prepare Bread Base: In a large bowl, break the bread into small pieces and moisten with milk. This step is crucial for creating the right texture for the cakes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, parsley flakes, baking powder, Old Bay Seasoning, salt, and the beaten egg to the moistened bread. Gently fold in the crabmeat, being careful not to break up the lumps too much. The mixture should be lightly combined to maintain the crab’s integrity.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into 4 patties. The patties should be cohesive but not overly compressed.
- Chill Patties: Refrigerate the patties for 30 minutes. This chilling time helps them hold together better during cooking.
- Fry the Crab Cakes: Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the crab cakes until they are golden brown on both sides, flipping every minute to ensure even cooking and to prevent burning.
- Serving: Serve hot. These crab cakes are perfect on their own or with a side of lemon wedges, tartar sauce, or a light salad.
The magic of these crab cakes lies in their simplicity and the focus on quality ingredients. The Old Bay Seasoning brings a warmth and depth of flavor that is unmistakably Maryland-style. Enjoy these timeless crab cakes that are sure to be a hit at any gathering!