Description
Crispy Golden Crab Bites are flavorful, bite-sized seafood appetizers made with lump crab meat mixed with fresh vegetables and seasonings, coated in panko breadcrumbs, and fried to a golden crisp. Perfect for parties or a delicious snack, these crab bites come out crispy on the outside while tender and savory inside.
Ingredients
Scale
Crab Bite Mixture
- 8 oz lump crab meat (drained and checked for shells)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Coating and Frying
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 1/2 cup additional panko breadcrumbs (for coating)
- Vegetable oil for frying
To Serve
- Lemon wedges
- Tartar sauce
Instructions
- Mix the Crab Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the lump crab meat, 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, finely chopped green onions, finely chopped red bell pepper, one large egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix carefully to retain the crab’s delicate texture.
- Form Bite-Sized Patties: Shape the mixture into small, bite-sized balls or patties, using about one tablespoon of mixture per bite, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
- Dredge and Coat: Lightly dredge each crab bite in all-purpose flour, shaking off excess, then coat thoroughly with the additional 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a skillet to a depth of about 1/2 inch and heat over medium heat until shimmering and hot enough for frying.
- Fry the Crab Bites: Carefully place the crab bites in the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry each side for 2 to 3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip gently.
- Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the fried crab bites to a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil and keep them crisp.
- Serve: Serve the crispy golden crab bites warm accompanied by fresh lemon wedges and tartar sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Ensure crab meat is fully drained and checked for any shell pieces to avoid unpleasant bites.
- You can substitute Old Bay seasoning with a seafood seasoning blend if desired.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet when frying to maintain oil temperature and achieve maximum crispiness.
- For a healthier version, consider baking at 400°F for 12-15 minutes until crisp, flipping halfway through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
