Crispy Crab Cakes with Tomato Butter Recipe

Introduction

Crispy Crab Cakes with Tomato Butter is a dish that blends delicate, flaky crab meat with a perfectly crisp exterior, creating a mouthwatering experience with every bite. The addition of tomato butter brings a rich, creamy contrast to the sweetness of the crab, elevating the dish to a whole new level of flavor. Whether you’re serving them as a main course or as an appetizer, these crab cakes are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

This recipe captures the essence of coastal cuisine, offering a balance of textures and a burst of flavors. The crab cakes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, while the tomato butter sauce adds a luxurious touch that takes this dish from delicious to extraordinary. Perfect for a dinner party, family gathering, or special occasion, these crab cakes will become a standout dish every time you serve them.

Why You’ll Love Crispy Crab Cakes with Tomato Butter

• Delicate and Sweet Crab Flavor: The sweet, delicate taste of crab meat is the star of the show. The crab cakes are made with fresh, high-quality crab, ensuring a tender, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Crispy, Golden Exterior: The perfectly crispy coating of the crab cakes provides a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender crab inside.
• Rich Tomato Butter Sauce: The tomato butter sauce adds a creamy, savory element to the dish, enhancing the natural sweetness of the crab and creating a flavor profile that is both rich and balanced.
• Simple Ingredients with Big Flavor: Despite using simple ingredients, these crab cakes are packed with flavor. The combination of fresh herbs, spices, and premium crab makes for an unforgettable dish.
• Impressive and Elegant: This dish looks as beautiful as it tastes. The golden brown crab cakes topped with a glossy tomato butter sauce make for an elegant presentation, perfect for impressing guests.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 400-450 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 25-28g
• Carbohydrates: 15-18g
• Protein: 20-22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2-4g

Ingredients

For the Crab Cakes:

• 1 pound fresh lump crab meat (preferably sweet and well-drained)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (or your favorite seafood seasoning)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions (scallions)
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (for texture)
• 1/4 cup regular breadcrumbs (for binding)
• 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

For the Tomato Butter Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Special Equipment

To ensure the best results when preparing these crispy crab cakes with tomato butter sauce, a few kitchen tools will come in handy:

1. Large Mixing Bowl: You’ll need a large bowl to combine the crab cake ingredients. It’s important to handle the crab gently to keep the lumps intact.
2. Non-Stick Skillet or Frying Pan: A non-stick skillet or frying pan is ideal for frying the crab cakes, as it helps to achieve a crispy, golden crust without sticking.
3. Spatula: A spatula is essential for flipping the crab cakes without breaking them. A thin, flexible spatula works best for delicate items like crab cakes.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that the ingredients are balanced, which is key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your crab cakes and sauce.
5. Whisk or Small Bowl: For making the tomato butter sauce, you’ll need a small bowl or whisk to combine the ingredients and create a smooth, creamy sauce.
6. Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp knife and cutting board are essential for chopping fresh herbs, tomatoes, and other ingredients for the sauce and crab cakes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crab Cake Mixture

Start by gently draining the crab meat, pressing out any excess liquid. Be careful not to break up the large lumps of crab meat. Place the crab in a large mixing bowl and set it aside.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mixture will help bind the crab meat while adding moisture and flavor.

Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the crab meat. Gently fold it in with a spatula or your hands, being careful not to break up the crab too much. Add the chopped parsley, green onions, panko breadcrumbs, and regular breadcrumbs. The breadcrumbs will help the mixture hold together and give the crab cakes their desired texture.

Once all the ingredients are mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the crab cake mixture for about 30 minutes. Chilling the mixture helps the cakes hold their shape during frying.

2. Form the Crab Cakes

After the mixture has chilled, it’s time to shape the crab cakes. Using your hands, form the mixture into patties about 2-3 inches in diameter. You should aim for about 8 crab cakes, but this can vary depending on how large you make them.

If the mixture feels too soft or sticky to handle, lightly dust your hands with flour to help form the patties. Gently press the patties together to ensure they hold their shape, but avoid overpacking them, as this can make them dense.

Once the crab cakes are shaped, set them aside on a plate or tray until you’re ready to cook them.

3. Prepare the Tomato Butter Sauce

While the crab cakes chill, you can make the tomato butter sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the diced tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.

Add the tomato paste to the pan and stir it into the tomatoes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomato paste is fully incorporated and the mixture thickens slightly. Add the heavy cream, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine. You may also add a teaspoon of sugar at this point to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken and develop a rich, creamy texture. Once the sauce is ready, remove it from the heat and keep it warm.

4. Cook the Crab Cakes

To cook the crab cakes, heat a large non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil to the pan, swirling it around to coat the bottom of the pan.

Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, add the crab cakes to the pan. Be sure to avoid overcrowding the pan; cook the crab cakes in batches if necessary. Fry the crab cakes for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside and heated through on the inside.

When the crab cakes are done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This helps keep them crispy.

5. Serve the Crab Cakes

To serve, place the crab cakes on individual plates or a serving platter. Spoon a generous amount of the tomato butter sauce over each crab cake. Garnish with fresh basil for an added touch of flavor and color.

Serve the crab cakes immediately, either on their own or with a side of vegetables, salad, or rice.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Crab Cakes with Tomato Butter

• Use Fresh Crab Meat: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, high-quality crab meat. Avoid imitation crab or canned crab meat, as they won’t have the same delicate flavor or texture.
• Chill the Mixture: Don’t skip the chilling step! Chilling the crab cake mixture helps it firm up, making it easier to form into cakes and preventing them from falling apart during frying.
• Avoid Overworking the Mixture: When combining the ingredients, mix gently and avoid overworking the crab meat. Overmixing can cause the crab cakes to become tough and dense.
• Fry at the Right Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the crab cakes. If the oil is too cold, the cakes will absorb excess oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, they may burn on the outside before cooking through.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the crab cakes in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook. Just make sure to keep them tightly covered so they don’t dry out.

Variations of Crispy Crab Cakes with Tomato Butter

• Spicy Crab Cakes: Add some heat by incorporating finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the crab cake mixture. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the tomato butter sauce for an extra kick.
• Lobster Cakes: If you’re looking for a more luxurious version, substitute some or all of the crab meat with fresh lobster meat. Lobster cakes will offer a rich, buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the tomato butter sauce.
• Vegetarian Crab Cakes: For a vegetarian twist, use jackfruit or hearts of palm in place of crab meat. With the right seasonings and breadcrumbs, these “mock crab cakes” will still have a delicious flavor and texture.

Storage and Shelf Life

Crispy Crab Cakes with Tomato Butter are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the crab cakes in a skillet over low heat for 3-5 minutes per side, or until heated through. Reheat the tomato butter sauce separately in a pan.

For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked crab cakes. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. To cook from frozen, simply fry them as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure they cook through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Crispy Crab Cakes with Tomato Butter

Pair your crispy crab cakes with complementary sides to create a well-rounded meal:

• Arugula Salad: A fresh arugula salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the crab cakes. The peppery bite of arugula pairs beautifully with the creamy tomato butter sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers make a great side dish. Their caramelized flavors and tender textures balance the crispiness of the crab cakes, providing a savory complement.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic can be the perfect comfort food pairing. The richness of the potatoes works well with the savory crab cakes and the smooth tomato butter sauce.
• Rice Pilaf: A light and fragrant rice pilaf with herbs or citrus adds another layer of flavor and texture that enhances the crab cakes without overshadowing them.
• Steamed Green Beans: For a lighter, vegetable-based side, steamed green beans with a touch of butter and lemon are a great accompaniment. The crispness of the beans pairs well with the delicate crab flavor.

Print

Conclusion

Crispy Crab Cakes with Tomato Butter offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will impress your guests and elevate any meal. The tender, sweet crab meat encased in a crispy golden crust is complemented by the luxurious, creamy tomato butter sauce, creating a harmonious and delicious dish. Whether served as a main course, appetizer, or part of a seafood feast, this recipe is sure to be a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can create this elegant dish with ease. It’s perfect for special occasions, dinner parties, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something indulgent. Make sure to try it out next time you’re craving something flavorful, crispy, and decadent—you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy your crispy crab cakes with tomato butter and savor the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and rich flavors.