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Baltimore Style Crab Cakes Recipe

Baltimore Style Crab Cakes Recipe - Comfort Food Meals

Baltimore crab cakes are the epitome of seafood indulgence. Originating from the charming seafood markets of Maryland, these cakes are made with the finest lump crab meat, minimal filler, and a zesty seasoning blend that celebrates the rich Atlantic flavors. 
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

  • Here’s everything you'll need to whip up these fabulous crab cakes:
  • - 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat, checked for shells
  • - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • - 1 large egg, beaten
  • - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • - 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • - 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
  • - 1/4 cup finely crushed saltine crackers
  • - 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
  • - 1/4 cup canola oil or vegetable oil
  • - Lemon wedges, for serving

Method
 

Step 1: Combine the Wet Ingredients
  1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, beaten egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Make sure everything blends together smoothly. This mixture is the base that will help to bind your crab cakes together and infuse them with flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Crab Mixture
  1. In a medium-sized bowl, carefully toss the jumbo lump crab meat with the finely crushed saltine crackers. Be gentle as you want to keep those beautiful lumps of crab intact. Once combined, add in the Old Bay seasoning for a hint of maritime flavor that screams "Maryland."
Step 3: Fold in the Wet Ingredients
  1. Gently fold the mayonnaise mixture into the crab and cracker mixture. Use a spatula to combine, being careful not to break up the crab too much. You want to ensure every bite has a wonderful mix of flavors.
Step 4: Chill the Mixture
  1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial because it allows the mixture to firm up and makes it easier to form into patties.
Step 5: Shape the Crab Cakes
  1. After chilling, scoop the crab mixture into eight portions, roughly 1/3 cup each. Lightly pack each portion into a patty about 1.5 inches thick. If you’d like, you can also shape them into smaller or larger cakes depending on your preference.
Step 6: Fry the Crab Cakes
  1. In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the crab cakes to the skillet, allowing a bit of space between them to fry evenly. Cook for about 3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and heated through.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Once cooked, transfer the crab cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for an extra zest.

Notes

- Use fresh crab meat for the best flavor; canned crab simply doesn't compare.
- Choose a high-quality mayonnaise for a richer taste.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce according to your spice preference.
- Make ahead of time: these crab cakes can be prepped the day before and stored in the fridge before frying.
- For added crunch, consider chilling the cooked crab cakes in the refrigerator for 20 minutes before frying.