When it comes to cooking with crab cakes, the possibilities are endless. These delectable treats can be served in a variety of ways, from classic pairings like coleslaw and tartar sauce to more adventurous combinations like mango salsa and spicy aioli. In this article, we’ll explore the world of crab cake cuisine and provide you with some inspiration for cooking with these tasty treats.
Classic Pairings
When it comes to traditional crab cake pairings, there are a few options that stand out. These classic combinations have been tried and tested over the years, and they remain popular to this day.
Coleslaw and Tartar Sauce
For a classic crab cake experience, try pairing your crab cakes with a side of coleslaw and a dollop of tartar sauce. The creamy slaw helps to balance out the richness of the crab, while the tangy tartar sauce adds a nice contrast in flavor. To make this combination even more special, try using a homemade coleslaw recipe and making your own tartar sauce from scratch.
Homemade Coleslaw Recipe
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Lemon Aioli and Steamed Vegetables
For a lighter take on the classic crab cake pairing, try serving your crab cakes with a side of steamed vegetables and a dollop of lemon aioli. The bright, citrusy flavor of the lemon aioli pairs perfectly with the richness of the crab, while the steamed vegetables provide a nice contrast in texture.
Seafood-Inspired Pairings
If you’re a seafood lover, you might enjoy pairing your crab cakes with other seafood-inspired ingredients. These combinations can add a fun and creative twist to the classic crab cake experience.
Grilled Shrimp and Garlic Butter
For a seafood-filled pairing, try serving your crab cakes with a side of grilled shrimp and a pat of garlic butter. The smoky flavor of the grilled shrimp pairs perfectly with the richness of the crab, while the garlic butter adds a nice depth of flavor.
Mixed Greens Salad with Lobster and Avocado
For a more substantial pairing, try serving your crab cakes on top of a mixed greens salad with chunks of lobster and avocado. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the richness of the crab and lobster, while the mixed greens provide a nice contrast in texture.
Spicy and Adventurous Pairings
If you’re feeling adventurous, you might enjoy pairing your crab cakes with some spicy and bold ingredients. These combinations can add a fun and exciting twist to the classic crab cake experience.
Jalapeño Poppers and Mango Salsa
For a spicy and sweet pairing, try serving your crab cakes with a side of jalapeño poppers and a dollop of mango salsa. The spicy kick from the jalapeños pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the mango, while the crab cakes provide a nice richness to the dish.
Crispy Bacon and Chipotle Aioli
For a smoky and spicy pairing, try serving your crab cakes with a side of crispy bacon and a dollop of chipotle aioli. The smoky flavor of the bacon pairs perfectly with the spicy kick from the chipotle peppers, while the crab cakes provide a nice richness to the dish.
Land-Inspired Pairings
If you’re looking for a non-seafood inspired pairing, you might enjoy combining your crab cakes with some classic land-based ingredients. These combinations can add a fun and creative twist to the classic crab cake experience.
Roasted Vegetables and Remoulade Sauce
For a hearty and comforting pairing, try serving your crab cakes with a side of roasted vegetables and a dollop of remoulade sauce. The rich and creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the roasted vegetables and crab cakes.
Grilled Steak and Garlic Mashed Potatoes
For a more substantial pairing, try serving your crab cakes with a grilled steak and a side of garlic mashed potatoes. The bold flavor of the steak pairs perfectly with the richness of the crab cakes, while the garlic mashed potatoes provide a nice comfort food element to the dish.
Breakfast and Brunch Pairings
If you’re looking for a unique and creative way to serve crab cakes, consider pairing them with some classic breakfast and brunch ingredients.
Scrambled Eggs and Hash Browns
For a breakfast-inspired pairing, try serving your crab cakes with a side of scrambled eggs and hash browns. The fluffy eggs and crispy hash browns provide a nice contrast in texture to the rich crab cakes.
Avocado Toast and Poached Eggs
For a more elegant brunch pairing, try serving your crab cakes on top of avocado toast with a poached egg. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the richness of the crab, while the poached egg adds a nice runny texture to the dish.
As you can see, there are many different ways to cook with crab cakes. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic pairing or something more adventurous, there’s a combination out there that’s sure to please. So don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different ingredients. With a little bit of imagination, you can turn crab cakes into a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
What are the key ingredients of a traditional crab cake?
A traditional crab cake typically consists of fresh crab meat, breadcrumbs, onions, mayonnaise, and seasonings. The crab meat is usually lump crab or a combination of lump and flaked crab, and it’s often from blue crabs or other types of swimming crabs. The breadcrumbs help bind the ingredients together, while the onions add a touch of sweetness and crunch.
The mayonnaise is often used to add moisture and creaminess to the crab cakes, and it can help balance out the flavors of the other ingredients. Other seasonings like salt, pepper, and Old Bay seasoning (in Maryland-style crab cakes) are also commonly used to enhance the flavor of the crab meat. Some recipes may also include additional ingredients like egg, mustard, or Worcestershire sauce.
What types of wine pair well with crab cakes?
When it comes to pairing wine with crab cakes, there are several options to consider. A crisp and refreshing white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio can complement the delicate flavors of the crab meat, while a richer and more buttery white wine like Chardonnay can pair well with the richer flavors of a Maryland-style crab cake. Another option is a dry Rosé, which can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the dish.
Sparkling wines like Champagne or Prosecco can also pair well with crab cakes, especially if they’re served as part of a celebratory meal. The acidity and effervescence of these wines can help cut through the richness of the crab cakes and leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized. Ultimately, the best wine to pair with crab cakes will depend on your personal taste preferences and the type of crab cake you’re serving.
What are some popular side dishes that go well with crab cakes?
There are many delicious side dishes that can complement the flavors of crab cakes. Some popular options include coleslaw, which can provide a nice crunch and a touch of cooling flavor to balance out the richness of the crab cakes. Another option is a simple green salad, which can add a burst of freshness and color to the plate.
Other side dishes like hush puppies, French fries, or garlic bread can add a satisfying crunch and a comforting touch to the meal. If you’re looking for something a little healthier, you might consider options like grilled or roasted vegetables, which can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the crab cakes. Ultimately, the best side dish will depend on your personal preferences and the flavors you’re trying to complement.
Can crab cakes be made in advance?
Crab cakes can be made in advance, but they’re best made fresh just before serving. However, if you’re short on time or need to prepare a large batch of crab cakes, you can prepare the ingredients and assemble the crab cakes up to a day or two in advance. Simply chill them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry or bake them.
If you’re looking to freeze crab cakes, it’s best to shape them into patties or balls, coat them in breadcrumbs, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Then, transfer the crab cakes to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 3-4 months. When you’re ready to cook them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and cook them as directed.
How do I store leftover crab cakes?
Leftover crab cakes can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer, depending on how long you plan to keep them. If you’re planning to use them within a day or two, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Simply wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a covered container.
If you want to store leftover crab cakes for a longer period of time, it’s best to freeze them. Simply wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the bag or container with the date and contents, and store them in the freezer for up to 3-4 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and cook them as directed.
Can crab cakes be served at any time of the year?
While crab cakes are often associated with summer and seafood cuisine, they can be served at any time of the year. In fact, many chefs and home cooks enjoy serving crab cakes during the winter months, when hearty and comforting seafood dishes are especially appealing.
The key is to use high-quality crab meat that’s available year-round, and to adjust the flavors and ingredients according to the season. For example, you might add some warm spices and citrus flavors to your crab cakes in the winter, or use some fresh herbs and lemon in the summer. With a little creativity and flexibility, crab cakes can be a delicious and satisfying option for any time of the year.
Are there many variations of crab cakes?
One of the things that makes crab cakes so versatile is the fact that there are many different variations and interpretations. From the classic Maryland-style crab cake to the more elaborate and innovative creations of modern chefs, there are countless ways to make and enjoy crab cakes.
Some popular variations include the Florida-style crab cake, which often uses stone crab claws and a tangy remoulade sauce; the California-style crab cake, which might add some Asian-inspired flavors and ingredients like soy sauce and sesame oil; and the Cajun-style crab cake, which is often spiced with cayenne pepper and paprika. Whatever your flavor preferences or dietary needs, there’s sure to be a crab cake variation that suits your tastes.