Make true Maryland style crab cakes using jumbo lump crab meat with minimal filler for a tender, flavorful result.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:10 min
Total Time:50 min
Yield:4 servings
Category:Seafood Main
Method:Pan-Frying
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound jumbo lump crab meat, picked over gently
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup saltine cracker crumbs (or panko for a slightly different texture)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter or oil for cooking
Instructions
In a medium bowl, gently whisk together the mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, lemon juice, and parsley. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
Sprinkle the cracker crumbs over the wet mixture and stir lightly. This binder should remain loose.
Place the lump crab meat in a separate large bowl. Pour the binder mixture over the crab meat.
Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the mixture together until the crab meat is barely coated. Do not break up the lumps of crab.
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Gently form each portion into a patty, about 1 inch thick. Avoid compressing the mixture tightly.
Place the formed patties on a plate lined with parchment paper and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape.
Heat the butter or oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
Carefully place the chilled crab cakes in the hot skillet, ensuring there is space between them.
Cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust and are heated through.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges or your preferred sauce.
Notes
Use only the highest quality lump or jumbo lump crab meat you can find for the best texture.
If you prefer baking, place the chilled patties on a baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
For an air fryer method, cook at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping once.