Ingredients for Crab and Shrimp Cakes
- 1/2 pound lump crab meat, picked over for shells
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and finely chopped
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large egg
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 small red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
These ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors that elevate traditional seafood cakes to a new level of culinary excellence.
Instructions for Making Crab and Shrimp Cakes
Step 1: Prepare the Crab and Shrimp Mixture
In a large bowl, combine lump crab meat, chopped shrimp, panko bread crumbs, mayonnaise, egg, green onions, red bell pepper, parsley, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, and garlic powder. Gently mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Form and Chill the Patties
Shape the mixture into 8-10 patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Prepare the Tartar Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, capers, dill pickle, Dijon mustard, and fresh dill (if using) for the tartar sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Step 4: Fry the Crab and Shrimp Cakes
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly dredge each patty in flour, shaking off excess. Fry the patties in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the skillet; add more oil if needed for subsequent batches.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the cooked crab and shrimp cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with the prepared tartar sauce and lemon wedges. Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a delightful meal.
Serving and Storage Tips
These Crab and Shrimp Cakes are best served hot, right after frying, to preserve their crispy texture and flavorful filling. They pair wonderfully with a homemade tartar sauce and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added zing.
Helpful Notes about the Recipe
For a variation, you can experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize the flavor profile of the cakes. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can add a subtle heat, while finely diced celery or a dash of hot sauce can offer a refreshing twist.
Renowned chefs often emphasize the importance of using high-quality seafood and ensuring thorough cooking to enhance the taste and safety of seafood dishes. As Julia Child famously said, "The only real stumbling block is fear of failure. In cooking you've got to have a what-the-hell attitude.