Crab cakes are known the world over, but can be made in a variety of ways depending on where you order them. There is no limit to the different types of seasoning you can include, though the “traditional” method uses Old Bay seasoning. Other recipes make use of garlic, ginger, lemon, peppers, basil and many other spices. In addition, they can be served in a number of ways, from being placed on a bun with a side of fries, to being displayed on a simple plate on a bed of greens, as well as set alongside a serving of coleslaw. Regardless of how you season and serve them, crab cakes are a delicious way to enjoy this tasty meat.
Which Meat is Best?
While any type of crab can be used, this can be a loaded question and the answer will depend on who you ask. Many people say the blue crab is the best tasting meat as it has a sweet flavor and a texture that melts in your mouth, but others will argue that this meat should be enjoyed on its own and not coated with breading and seasoning as it would be in a cake. On the western coast, the Dungeness crab is commonly used as it is the most abundant shellfish in that area, and you would have no problems finding it on the menu in many restaurants in the area.
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Did you know the cakes can be either fried or broiled?
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They can vary in size from a small “nugget” to a more filling “patty” size.
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Condiments commonly used for dipping include tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or the old stand-by of ketchup and mustard.
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If you can’t find them local, there are sources where you can buy crab cakes online. They are shipped right to your door overnight!
Want to Make a Grand Impression?
Serving crab cakes at a wedding reception, family reunion, corporate event or other more formal meeting can be a great way to impress your guests. Depending on how you choose to present them, you can offer them as a luxurious meal to a more casual snack. Many people include a shrimp platter for their seafood loving friends, so a platter of crab cakes would be a welcomed addition as well. But be careful, once your guests realize how good they taste, you may quickly run out and will have to buy plenty more for the next get-together!
