Crab Crunchies (Print version)

Crispy air fryer Crab Crunchies made with imitation crab, buttery seasoning, panko, and a lemony dipping sauce.

# Ingredients:

For the crab crunchies

01 - 12 oz (340 g) leg-style imitation crab sticks
02 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1 tablespoon neutral oil
04 - 1 1/2 teaspoons Old Bay-style seafood seasoning
05 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
08 - 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
09 - 1/2 cup (30 g) panko breadcrumbs
10 - Lemon wedges, for serving
11 - Chopped parsley, for garnish

For the lemon dip

12 - 1/3 cup (75 g) mayonnaise
13 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
14 - 1 teaspoon hot sauce, or to taste
15 - Pinch of Old Bay-style seasoning

# Instructions:

01 - Heat the air fryer to 390°F for 3 minutes. Lightly coat the basket with cooking spray if your model tends to stick.
02 - Cut the imitation crab sticks into 1-inch chunks. Pat them dry with paper towels so the butter coating and panko cling well.
03 - In a large bowl, stir together melted butter, oil, seafood seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and lemon zest.
04 - Add the crab chunks and fold gently until coated. Sprinkle in the panko and toss just until the crumbs stick to the outside.
05 - Arrange the pieces in a single layer. Air fry for 8 minutes, shake the basket, then cook 3-5 minutes more until golden at the edges.
06 - Stir mayonnaise, lemon juice, hot sauce, and a pinch of seafood seasoning. Serve the hot Crab Crunchies with dip, lemon wedges, and parsley.

# Good to know:

01 - Best eaten hot, within 10 minutes of air frying.
02 - Cook in batches if your air fryer basket is small.
03 - Check imitation crab labels for wheat, egg, soy, shellfish, or fish allergens.

Back