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Crab Crunchies

Crab Crunchies
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Crab Crunchies are a quick and easy appetizer that combines the delicate sweetness of fresh crab meat with a perfectly crispy golden crust. Ideal for seafood lovers, these crunchy bites feature fresh ingredients, a flavorful seasoning blend, and a tender interior, making them perfect for casual snacks, gatherings, or as part of a main course. The recipe is customizable and versatile, suited for frying or baking with options for gluten-free and spicy variations.

Ingredients

Scale

Crab Mixture

  • 6 oz fresh crab meat
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
  • 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Binding & Coating

  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)

For Frying

  • Vegetable oil, for frying (about 1-2 cups depending on skillet size)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crab Mixture: Gently flake the fresh crab meat to remove any lumps. In a bowl, combine the crab, mayonnaise, lemon juice, chopped green onions, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Fold everything together carefully to keep the crab chunks intact yet well-coated.
  2. Bind with Egg and Breadcrumbs: Lightly beat the eggs and add to the crab mixture, stirring just enough to bind. Slowly fold in the panko breadcrumbs until the mixture is firm enough to shape without falling apart.
  3. Shape the Crab Crunchies: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized patties or rounded nuggets. Make sure they are compact for even cooking and to maintain the crunch.
  4. Fry to Golden Perfection: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, gently place the shaped Crab Crunchies in the oil. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  5. Serve Warm and Enjoy: Serve your Crab Crunchies straight from the pan while warm, paired with your favorite dipping sauce or garnish. The crispy exterior and tender crab inside will have everyone asking for seconds.

Notes

  • Use fresh or high-quality lump crab meat for best flavor and texture.
  • Fold ingredients gently to preserve large crab chunks for better texture.
  • Maintain medium-high heat to avoid soggy Crunchies or burnt crust.
  • Drain cooked Crunchies on paper towels to keep them crisp.
  • Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy maximum crunchiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: crab appetizer, crispy crab bites, seafood snacks, gluten free crab recipe, easy seafood appetizer, crab crunchies

Find it online: https://recipesbykaeli.com/crab-crunchies/