Famous Crab Bombs are a Maryland-style seafood delicacy, packed with sweet, succulent lump crab meat and minimal filler to highlight the natural flavors. Unlike traditional crab cakes, these crab bombs are oven-roasted or broiled, ensuring a tender, flaky texture while maintaining their dome-like shape. Popularized in the Chesapeake Bay area, this dish is a true celebration of fresh seafood, perfect for special occasions or impressing guests with restaurant-quality flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lump crab meat (preferably Maryland blue crab, carefully checked for shells)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (adds moisture and richness)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (adds a mild tang)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (for umami depth)
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice (to brighten and balance flavors)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for color and freshness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup crushed saltine crackers or panko breadcrumbs (minimal binder)
- 2 tbsp melted butter or neutral oil, for basting before baking
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crab Meat:
- Gently place the lump crab meat in a large bowl.
- Carefully examine it for shells and cartilage. Since lump crab is delicate, try not to break up the pieces.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice.
- This will serve as your flavor-packed binding base.
- Combine and Season:
- Pour the wet mixture over the crab meat.
- Add in chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- Gently fold the ingredients together using a spatula or your hands. Be patient and slow to preserve the crab lumps.
- Add the Binder:
- Sprinkle in the crushed saltine crackers or panko breadcrumbs.
- Fold them in gently just until the mixture holds together. You don’t want to over-mix—this should remain loose and crab-heavy, not doughy.
- Form and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Shape the crab mixture into 2–4 large round mounds (like small bombs) and place them on the sheet.
- Brush each crab bomb with melted butter or oil to enhance browning and flavor.
- Bake Until Golden:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until lightly golden on top and heated through.
- If you prefer a crispier exterior, switch to broil for the last 2 minutes (watch closely to prevent burning).
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the crab bombs rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with extra parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with tartar sauce or remoulade for dipping.
- Serve alongside buttery mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
- Enjoy with a fresh salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Crab Bombs:
- Use Fresh Lump Crab Meat: The quality of crab makes all the difference.
- Minimal Binder: Avoid overloading with breadcrumbs—let the crab shine!
- Gentle Mixing: Handle the crab meat delicately to maintain its texture.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: A quick broil at the end enhances the golden crust.
These Famous Crab Bombs are a seafood lover’s dream, delivering bold flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you’re recreating a Chesapeake Bay classic or simply indulging in a luxurious homemade dish, this recipe is sure to impress! 🦀✨
For more details, check out this recipe.