Mouth-Watering Southern Crab Cakes: A Recipe To Try Today
Picture this: you’re sitting on a cozy porch on a warm summer day, sipping on a cold glass of sweet tea, and smelling the tantalizing aroma of freshly made crab cakes. You take a bite of the crab cake, feeling the crisp exterior give way to the soft and juicy interior, and your taste buds are hit with an explosion of flavor. That’s what we’re bringing to you today- a recipe for delicious southern-style crab cakes with cool lime sauce that will transport you straight to the shores of the Chesapeake Bay.
As a chef specializing in southern cuisine, I have always been intrigued by the rich flavors and ingredients that come from such a vibrant region. That’s why I’ve taken my passion for food and created this recipe that pays homage to southern cooking with a twist. These crab cakes are not only packed with fresh and succulent lump crab meat but also bursting with bold spices and herbs that will leave your taste buds craving more. And that cool lime sauce? It’s the perfect complement to these cakes, adding just the right amount of tanginess to make it impossible to resist.
Whether you’re hosting a summer backyard BBQ or preparing for an intimate dinner party, these southern-style crab cakes with cool lime sauce will be sure to impress your guests. So without further ado, let’s get into why you’re going to love this recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a taste of the south, then look no further because this Delicious Southern Crab Cakes With Cool Lime Sauce Recipe will take your taste buds on a journey they won’t forget.
Firstly, this recipe uses only the best crab meat available, including jumbo lump and Maryland crab, making it packed with delicious seafood flavor. Plus, it’s suitable for those with dietary restrictions as there are substitutions available for those who prefer to not use real crab meat or are allergic to seafood.
Secondly, the cool lime sauce adds a tangy kick that complements the savory flavors of the crab cakes perfectly. The combination of sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard and lime juice creates a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors that will leave your taste buds tingling with excitement.
But wait – there’s more! This recipe is also versatile and can be paired with a wide variety of sides and drinks. Serve it up with an Italian salad for a light lunch or dinner option, or pair it with some ranch dressing and bread crumbs for a delightful appetizer.
Ultimately, what sets this recipe apart from others is its easy-to-follow instructions that guarantee perfect results every time. Even if you’re new to cooking seafood or have never made crab cakes before, this recipe is simple yet elegant and will impress even the most seasoned chefs.
So what are you waiting for? Give this Delicious Southern Crab Cakes With Cool Lime Sauce Recipe a try and treat yourself to the authentic flavors of southern cuisine right in your very own kitchen!
Ingredient List
Let’s get started with the ingredient list for these Southern-style Crab Cakes with Cool Lime Sauce. You’ll need the following ingredients for the crab cakes:
- 1 lb picked free shells crabmeat (jumbo lump or Maryland crab)
- 3 green onions, finely chopped (white and green parts)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1 tablespoon Italian salad dressing mix
- 3/4 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 cans (6 ounce) lump crab meat, drained
- 1 egg
For the cool lime sauce, you will need:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Juice of one lime
- Zest of one lime
To complete this recipe, you’ll also require a few basic kitchen staples such as salt, bread crumbs and oil for frying.
Make sure to source the freshest and best quality crab meat for this recipe as it will greatly impact the overall flavor and texture of your crab cakes.
The Recipe How-To
Preparing the Crab Cakes
Step 1: Gather Ingredients
To make the perfect Southern Style Crab Cakes with Cool Lime Sauce, you’ll need to have several ingredients on hand. Place a large bowl on the counter and start measuring 1 pound of picked and free shells crabmeat into it. Add 3 green onions, chopped (both white and green parts), 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of Italian salad dressing mix, 1/2 cup of finely crushed buttery crackers, and 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs into the bowl.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Using your hands, gently mix all of the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to break up the jumbo lump crab meat. Then shape them into patties in proportion you like.
Step 3: Fry the Crab Cakes
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm up some vegetable oil until it begins to shimmer. Gently place each crab cake in the heated pan and cook for about three minutes on each side until golden brown.
Making the Cool Lime Sauce
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the following cool lime sauce ingredients: half a cup of sour cream, half a cup of mayonnaise (divided into two portions), one tablespoon of fresh lime juice, one tablespoon of fresh lime zest, and one teaspoon of dijon mustard.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
After whisking all of the southern-style cool lime sauce’s ingredients together, chill it in the refrigerator. The chilling process will help bring out all of its wonderful flavors. Once your crab cakes are fried and cooled down enough so that they’re safe to handle, serve them with this cool lime sauce on top or as a dipping sauce with remoulade sauce, ranch dressing, or a homemade cilantro lime sauce.
Enjoy the delicious flavor and texture of these Southern-Style Crab Cakes with Cool Lime Sauce!
Substitutions and Variations
Are you looking to switch things up or add your personal touch to this southern-style crab cake recipe? Fear not, my friend. I’ve got some suggestions for substitutions and variations that will take your taste buds on a wild ride.
1. Crab Meat Alternatives:
Don’t have lump crab meat? Don’t fret! You can substitute this with blue crab, imitation crab, or even baked crab. They all work well in this recipe and will give you delicious results.
2. Sauce Variations:
Are you bored with the classic lime sauce? Try mango sauce to add a sweet tropical twist to your dish. Or switch up the cool lime sauce by adding cilantro lime or ranch dressing mix for a tangy twist.
3. Dipping Sauce Options:
If you’re looking for more dipping sauce options, try making remoulade or aïoli for a tangy and creamy dip. Another option is serving your crab cakes with Mary Rose sauce or tartar sauce.
4. Ingredient Substitutions:
To switch up the flavors of this recipe without changing it entirely, try switching out some of the ingredients. You can replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. Use spicy mustard instead of dijon mustard to make it more zesty or add some hot pepper mix for extra spice.
5. Ingredient Additions:
Love seafood? You can add shrimp or lobster to your crab meat mixture to create an even more decadent flavor profile. Or maybe diced roasted red pepper, chopped jalapeños or green chilies are more your style; go ahead and add these ingredients too!
Experiment with these substitutions and variations, and see what delicious dishes you can come up with! It’s all about making the recipe work best for you – whatever works best for your taste buds is what matters most!
Serving and Pairing
Now that your southern-style crab cakes with cool lime sauce are ready, it’s time to serve them up and enjoy! These delicious crab cakes are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner party or a fancy gathering. Serve them hot off the stove with a dollop of cool lime sauce on top for an extra zing.
The cool lime sauce is the ideal pairing for these crab cakes as it balances out the richness of the crab meat and adds a fresh tangy flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try pairing them with a mango sauce or cilantro lime dressing for a more tropical twist.
For sides, I recommend serving these crab cakes with a light and refreshing salad or some roasted vegetables such as asparagus or green beans. You can also pair them with some classic southern side dishes like cornbread, collard greens, or mac and cheese for an authentic southern-style meal.
To complement your dish even further, consider pairing your crab cakes with a light and crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Alternatively, you can opt for a frosty bottle of beer like an IPA or Pilsner.
No matter how you choose to serve and pair these southern-style crab cakes with cool lime sauce, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, invite some friends over and get ready to savor every bite of this mouthwatering dish!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Now that you’ve successfully crafted your southern-style crab cakes with cool lime sauce, it’s time to discuss how to store and reheat them for maximum enjoyment.
If you want to prepare ahead of time, refrigerate the uncooked crab cakes up to 24 hours before cooking. Another option is to cook them completely in advance and then gently reheat them as needed. This comes in handy if you’re hosting a dinner party or simply anticipating a busy schedule.
Once cooked, you should allow the cakes to cool down completely before storing. Wrap each cake tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. Keep them in your refrigerator for up to 3 days, but be advised that the sooner you eat fresh crab cakes, the better the taste and texture will be.
When it’s time to reheat your crab cakes, start by preheating your oven at 375°F. Take out the cakes from the fridge and unwrap them. Place the crab cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with cooking spray. Reheat in the oven for 10-12 minutes until they are hot all throughout.
Alternatively, you can also use a non-stick skillet for reheating by placing over medium heat. While waiting for the pan to get hot, brush each of the crab cakes with a light layer of vegetable oil or butter on both sides. Once heated, cook each side of the crab cake for about 3-4 minutes until you achieve that desirable golden brown color.
Lastly, remember that any leftover lime sauce should also be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If it becomes too thick while being refrigerated, add some extra sour cream or lime juice in order to retain its desired consistency before serving alongside your perfectly reheated crab cakes.
Tips for Perfect Results
Ah, my fellow cooks, let me share with you some tips and tricks to elevate your southern-style crab cakes to perfection. Pay close attention as these tips can make your dish go from good to the best!
Firstly, when making the crab cakes, try to use jumbo lump crab meat instead of imitation crab or backfin. This will give your crab cakes a firmer texture and a sweeter taste that is bound to impress.
Another tip is to resist the urge to pack the crab meat in tightly as this can lead to a dense cake. Instead, gently fold in the ingredients until everything is well blended. This will result in a lighter cake that still has all the delicious flavors.
A third tip is to make sure that your bread crumbs are not reconstituted as this can cause them to be soggy and ruin the texture of your crab cake. Crush up some buttery crackers like Ritz or Saltines for a crispy and flavorful coating.
Next, if you want your cool lime sauce to have an extra zing, try adding some cilantro lime seasoning or fresh cilantro into the mix. It adds a burst of freshness that pairs perfectly with the tangy lime sauce.
Lastly, be careful not to overcook the crab cakes as this can dry them out and destroy their texture. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and heated through.
Follow these tips closely, and I guarantee that you will create the perfect Southern-style Crab Cakes with Cool Lime Sauce every time. So what are you waiting for? Get cooking!
FAQ
Now that we have gone through the ingredient list, recipe how-to, and tips for perfect results, you might be wondering if there are any common questions or concerns when making these southern-style crab cakes with cool lime sauce. Fear not! In this section, I will answer some of the most frequently asked questions to ensure that your cooking experience is a smooth one.
What is the best sauce to eat with crab cakes?
One sauce that adds a delightful tanginess, smokiness, and spiciness to seafood is a creamy remoulade. It’s just perfect on crab cakes or a po’ boy sandwich.
How do you make Paula Deen’s crab cakes?
This recipe calls for a pound of fresh crabmeat that has been meticulously picked to remove any shells. You’ll also need crushed buttery crackers, finely chopped green onions (using both the green and white parts), finely chopped bell pepper, and some mayonnaise. To bind everything together, you’ll need one egg, a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and a teaspoon of dry mustard.
What makes crab cakes taste good?
When it comes to crab cakes, there’s nothing like the Maryland style – and my recipe takes them to the next level. I load mine up with generous portions of succulent jumbo lump crab meat, mixing in just the right amounts of creamy mayo and tangy mustard. To add a bit of texture, I use a few breadcrumbs, complemented by the fresh taste of parsley. A dash of seasoning adds a little extra pop, while a squeeze of lemon ties it all together. It’s a simple recipe that will have you savoring the most flavorful crab cake you’ve ever had.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, these Southern-style crab cakes with cool lime sauce are an absolute delight for your taste buds. The combination of the delicate lump crab meat mixed with the robust flavors of the sour cream, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise create a perfect balance in this recipe. With a tangy and refreshing cool lime sauce topped on these cakes, it becomes difficult to resist them.
For those who are new to cooking or want to try something different, these crab cakes are perfect because they are easy to make and require minimal ingredients. Moreover, this recipe can be customized to accommodate different preferences and variations.
Whether you’re savoring them with a refreshing drink or relishing this dish in your own comfort zone, these crab cakes will surely make your day. So go ahead and give them a try today!
Remember – if you want to impress your guests or treat yourself to something tasty, consider trying out this Southern-style crab cake recipe. Trust me, once you try these delectable little creations, you won’t be able to resist them!
Delicious Southern Crab Cakes With Cool Lime Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 green onions
- 1 lime
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise, divided
- 0.5 (7 ounce) packet Italian salad dressing mix
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, divided
- 13 round buttery crackers, divided
- 1 (8 ounce) container crabmeat
- 4 tablespoons sour cream
Instructions
- LIME SAUCE:
- Combine, in small bowl, remaining 1/4-cup mayonnaise, 1/2-tablespoon mustard, juice from a lime quarter and sour cream. Chill until ready to serve.
- CRAB CAKES:
- Chop onions into 1/4-inch pieces. Place in large bowl.
- Cut lime in quarters and squeeze juice of one quarter over onions.
- Add 1/4-cup mayonnaise, dressing mix, and 1/2- tablespoon mustard. Mix until well blended.
- Crush seven crackers while adding to mayonnaise mixture. Add crabmeat and mix well.
- Shape into four 1/4-inch thick patties.
- Preheat large saute pan on medium-high 2-3 minutes.
- Crush remaining 6 crackers onto a plate. Lightly coat patties with crackers, then place in saute pan.
- Cook 12-15 minutes turning as needed to brown and heat thoroughly.
- Serve crab cakes with lime sauce and enjoy!