| Crab cakes are a classic dish served for brunch, lunch, | | | | mixture is delicately shaped into patties to retain |
| or dinner. To some they are a comfort food ordered | | | | textures, and the individual patties are covered and |
| at fine restaurants, while others experiment at home in | | | | refrigerated for at least an hour so flavors can |
| their kitchens to find the perfect recipe. This culinary | | | | combine and the patties set up. Chilling the patties |
| delight is enjoyed around the world, with delicious | | | | lessens the chance of the crab cakes falling apart |
| variations at every location, or with every chef or | | | | when cooked. The patties can be sauteed, broiled, |
| home cook. | | | | baked, and deep fried, or grilled. Every method delivers |
| You should start with the finest crabmeat you can | | | | distinct flavors and textures and can enhance the |
| acquire. Whether its fresh or frozen, local or seasonal, | | | | overall taste and presentation. No one method is |
| king, dungeness or Maryland blue, the better the | | | | preferred, although some would argue that crab cakes |
| crabmeat, the better the final result. Jumbo lump or | | | | should only be prepared in a certain way. |
| backfin are great choices. Folded in gently to the crab | | | | Crab cakes can be prepared with very few |
| cake mixture, these two types of crabmeat will retain | | | | ingredients allowing the flavor and texture of the |
| shape and texture and deliver a delicious and beautiful | | | | crabmeat to take center stage. Some recipes build off |
| crab cake. | | | | this classic recipe by adding a touch of hot, sweet or |
| Fresh ingredients are another key to preparing | | | | spice to the cakes. Seafood seasonings are often |
| incredible crab cakes. For example using fresh eggs, | | | | added to crab cakes to add a distinct seafood flavor. |
| fresh herbs instead of dried, fresh lemon or lime juice | | | | Crab cake sauces are often served on the side, and |
| instead of bottled will all lead to a producing a superior | | | | there are as many recipes for sauces as there are |
| result. Fresh ingredients will lead to fewer | | | | for the cakes themselves. |
| inconsistencies each time you prepare them. If you are | | | | Crab cakes can be enjoyed year round in the comfort |
| using breadcrumbs as a binder, fresh homemade, or | | | | of your own home. When armed with the best |
| fresh store bought will always produce the best | | | | recipes, prepared with care and fine ingredients, you |
| results. | | | | can present a perfect appetizer or main dish and truly |
| The crabmeat is generally folded into the mixture last, | | | | wow your dining audience. |
| so the crabmeat stays in large lumps and flakes. The | | | | |